How do you pick out corn on the cob and prepare it?

When picking out corn on the cob, there are a few key things to look for to ensure you select the best ears of corn:

  1. Husk: The husk should be fresh and green, tightly wrapped around the corn. Avoid ears with brown or dry husks.
  2. Silks: Check the silks (the fine threads sticking out of the top) to make sure they are moist and light-colored. Avoid ears with dark or dried-out silks.
  3. Kernels: Gently press your finger against a few kernels through the husk. The kernels should feel plump and firm, not soft or shriveled. Look for ears with evenly spaced and filled-out kernels.

Once you have chosen your corn on the cob, you can prepare it using the following steps:

  1. Husking: Start by removing the outer husks. Peel away the green husks, starting from the top, and remove as much of the silk as possible. However, it’s okay to leave a few inner layers of the husk intact to protect the corn while cooking.
  2. Soaking (optional): If desired, you can soak the corn in cold water for about 15 to 30 minutes before grilling or boiling. This can help keep the corn moist during cooking.
  3. Cooking: There are several methods to cook corn on the cob:
    • Boiling: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the husked corn and cook for about 4 to 6 minutes until the kernels are tender. Avoid overcooking, as it can make the corn mushy.
    • Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the husked corn directly on the grill grates and cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are slightly charred and tender.
    • Roasting: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the husked corn on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 to 25 minutes until the kernels are tender and slightly golden.
  4. Seasoning: Once the corn is cooked, you can season it according to your preference. Common toppings include butter, salt, pepper, and various herbs and spices. Some people also enjoy adding a squeeze of lime or sprinkling grated cheese on top.
  5. Serving: Serve the corn on the cob hot as a side dish or part of a larger meal. Enjoy it by holding the cob at each end and eating the kernels directly off the cob, or you can use a knife to cut the kernels off and serve them in a bowl.

Remember to exercise caution while handling hot corn, and enjoy the delicious flavors of fresh corn on the cob!

Image from Wikipedia