When the sun is shining and the grill is heating up, there’s nothing quite like the taste of corn on the barbecue. Sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor, corn is the perfect side dish for any BBQ. If you’re looking to elevate your corn game, cooking it in foil is a foolproof method that locks in moisture and infuses it with delicious seasoning. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the steps to cook corn on the BBQ in foil, including tips, tricks, and mouthwatering flavor combinations.
Why Cook Corn on the BBQ in Foil?
Cooking corn on the BBQ in foil offers several advantages:
- Enhanced Flavor: Wrapping corn in foil allows it to steam in its own juices. This method creates a tender, flavorful cob that is infused with any seasonings you add.
- Easy Cleanup: Foil can contain any mess, making post-BBQ cleanup a breeze. No charred kernels stuck to the grill grates!
- Versatility: Foil-wrapped corn can be customized with an array of toppings, making it adaptable for various taste preferences.
- Consistent Cooking: The foil helps maintain even heat, ensuring your corn cooks uniformly without charring or burning.
Shopping for the Perfect Corn
Before firing up the grill, it’s essential to select the best corn. Here are some tips to find fresh, delicious corn:
What to Look For
When choosing fresh corn for grilling, consider the following:
- Husk Condition: Look for ears with bright green husks that are tightly wrapped. The husks should not be brown or dried out.
- Silks: The silks at the top should be a bit sticky and moist, not dry or brown. Their color indicates freshness.
- Kernels: When you gently press the kernels with your finger, they should feel firm and plump. If they’re mushy, the corn is overripe.
Organic vs. Conventional Corn
While both organic and conventional corn can be delicious, organic corn is generally grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Opting for organic can be a healthier choice and often results in a sweeter flavor.
Preparing Corn for the Grill
Now that you have your corn, it’s time to prepare it for grilling. Proper preparation is crucial to achieving that perfect BBQ flavor and texture.
Removing the Husks and Silks
Begin by removing the husks and silks from each cob. Gently peel back the outer layers until they are completely removed, exposing the yellow kernels.
Soaking (Optional)
Soaking your wrapped corn in water for about 10-15 minutes can help to create steam during grilling, resulting in even more tenderness. This step is optional but recommended for juicier corn.
Wrapping Corn in Foil
Properly wrapping corn is essential to ensure even cooking. Follow these steps:
Materials You Will Need
To get started, gather the following materials:
- Aluminum foil (heavy-duty is best)
- Your favorite butter, oil, or seasoning
- Optional extras (cheese, herbs, spices)
Step-by-Step Wrapping Process
- Prepare the Foil:
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Tear off a sheet of aluminum foil large enough to wrap each cob completely, about 12 inches square.
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Add Seasonings:
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Place the corn cob in the center of the foil. If you’re using butter or oil, spread or drizzle it over the corn. Add any herbs, spices, or cheese for additional flavor.
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Wrap the Corn:
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Bring the edges of the foil up and over the corn to create a sealed pouch. Be sure to fold the foil tightly to prevent any steam from escaping.
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Double Wrap (Optional):
- For extra protection, you can wrap the foil packet again with a second layer. This step helps lock in moisture and ensures even cooking.
Grilling Your Corn
With the corn properly wrapped, it’s time to fire up the grill!
Heat the Grill
Set your grill to medium-high heat (around 350-400°F). You want it hot enough to achieve that grilled flavor but not so hot that it burns the foil or the corn.
Grill Time
Place the foil-wrapped corn directly on the grill grates:
Cook the corn for about **15-20 minutes**, turning occasionally. The corn is done when the kernels are tender and the aroma fills the air. You can test the tenderness by carefully opening one foil packet and using a fork to pierce a kernel.
Finishing Touches
Once your corn is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the grill using tongs or heat-resistant gloves, as the foil will be hot. Allow the corn to rest in the foil for a few minutes; this helps the flavors meld together.
Flavoring Options for Grill Corn
Getting creative with your seasoning can take grilled corn to the next level. Here are some tasty suggestions:
Classic Butter and Garlic
One of the simplest and most beloved ways to enjoy grilled corn is with butter and garlic:
- Spread rich butter and sprinkle minced garlic over the corn before wrapping it in foil. You can add a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Spicy Lime and Chili
If you prefer a zesty kick, try this refreshing combination:
- Combine lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Coat the corn with the mixture before wrapping it in foil. Top with fresh cilantro after unwrapping for added freshness.
Cheesy Goodness
For cheese lovers, this method will satisfy your cravings:
- Add a generous sprinkle of Parmesan or feta cheese into the foil packet along with some herbs like basil or rosemary. The cheese will melt beautifully, adding a rich flavor to the sweet corn.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your delicious grilled corn is ready, how should you serve it? Here are some great ideas:
Classic BBQ Plate
Serve your corn alongside traditional BBQ dishes, such as grilled burgers, hot dogs, or ribs. The sweetness of the corn complements the savory flavors perfectly.
Summer Salad Addition
Cut the kernels off the cob and toss them into a fresh summer salad for added sweetness and texture. Combine with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
Storing Leftover Corn
Did you end up with extra corn from your BBQ feast? No worries! Here’s how to store it properly:
Refrigeration
Allow the corn to cool down after cooking. Wrap any leftovers in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-5 days.
Freezing Corn
For longer storage, consider freezing the corn:
1. Cut the kernels off the cob and place them in a resealable freezer bag.
2. Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
3. Label and date the bags, then store them in the freezer. Properly frozen corn can last up to 6 months.
Conclusion
Cooking corn on the BBQ in foil is an enjoyable and rewarding experience that yields delicious results. By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you’ll be able to serve up flavor-packed corn every time. Whether you stick with classic butter or experiment with zesty flavors, your corn will surely be a hit at your next BBQ gathering.
As the grilling season rolls on, remember to try out different toppings and flavor combinations to keep things exciting. With this method, your backyard BBQ will always be a flavor fiesta! So, fire up that grill, grab your corn, and let the fun begin.
What type of corn is best for grilling in foil?
The best type of corn for grilling in foil is sweet corn, particularly the varieties like Silver Queen or Butter and Sugar. These types tend to have a high sugar content, which caramelizes beautifully when grilled, enhancing their natural sweetness. You should choose fresh ears of corn that are firm and have bright green husks to ensure the best flavor and texture.
When selecting corn, check that the kernels are plump and well-filled, with no signs of browning or dryness. Avoid ears that look dull or have dried-out husks, as this may indicate aging. Fresh corn is essential for achieving that sweet, juicy flavor that complements your BBQ experience.
Do I need to soak the corn before grilling?
Soaking corn before grilling is not a strict requirement, especially when using foil. However, soaking the corn in water for about 30 minutes can add some extra moisture, which can help steam the corn while it’s cooking and enhance its tenderness. This method can be particularly effective if you’re grilling corn wrapped in husks, as it helps to prevent burning.
If you choose not to soak the corn, simply wrapping it tightly in foil with a bit of butter or oil can also yield delicious results. This method traps steam and flavors, allowing the corn to cook thoroughly while retaining its moisture, resulting in perfectly grilled corn.
How should I prepare the corn before wrapping it in foil?
Preparation of corn before wrapping it in foil involves a few simple steps. Start by removing the husks and silk from the corn. Rinse the ears under cold water to remove any remaining silk and dirt, ensuring the corn is clean and ready for grilling. After rinsing, you can choose to either leave the corn whole or cut it into halves or thirds for easier handling and serving.
Once the corn is prepped, you can add flavors before wrapping. Spread a generous amount of butter over each ear and sprinkle with salt, pepper, or any preferred seasoning. For an extra kick, consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne. Wrapping the corn tightly in aluminum foil will lock in those delicious flavors during grilling, leading to a mouthwatering result.
How long should I grill corn in foil?
When grilling corn in foil, the general cooking time ranges from 15 to 20 minutes over medium heat. It’s crucial to monitor the corn closely as cooking times may vary based on the grill’s temperature and the size of the corn ears. You’ll know it’s done when the kernels are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
For best results, turn the foil-wrapped corn halfway through the grilling time to ensure even cooking. After about 15 minutes, you can carefully unwrap a piece and check for doneness. If they need more time, simply rewrap them and continue grilling, checking periodically until they reach the perfect level of tenderness.
Can I add other ingredients to the foil packet?
Absolutely! One of the great things about grilling corn in foil is the opportunity to get creative with flavors. You can add ingredients such as fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro), garlic, lime juice, or even cheese to your foil packets. These ingredients will infuse the corn with additional flavor while it cooks, making for a more vibrant side dish.
You could also consider adding vegetables like sliced bell peppers or zucchini to the foil packet for an easy mixed veggie grill. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the extra ingredients, so adjust the grilling time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
Can I grill corn on the BBQ without foil?
Yes, you can grill corn on the BBQ without foil, and it can be just as delicious. For this method, you can leave the husks on. The husks will protect the kernels from direct heat while allowing them to steam, creating a tender and flavorful result. Simply soak the corn in water for about 30 minutes, then place it on the grill over medium heat.
Alternatively, if you prefer to grill without husks, you can remove them, baste the corn with butter or oil, and place the ears directly on the grill grates. This method allows the kernels to develop a lovely char and smoky flavor. Whichever method you choose, just make sure to monitor the corn closely to prevent charring or burning, turning the ears every few minutes for even cooking.