Sweet corn is a cherished summer staple, and cooking it on the BBQ elevates its flavor profile to new heights. With its tender kernels and natural sweetness, grilled sweet corn can be the highlight of any outdoor gathering or barbecue party. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore various methods to cook sweet corn on the BBQ, along with tips and tricks to achieve the perfect char and flavor.
Understanding Sweet Corn
Before diving into the grilling methods, it’s important to understand a few key points about sweet corn. Sweet corn, unlike field corn, is harvested when immature. Its high sugar content makes it a favorite among many. The most common varieties include:
- Silver Queen: A classic white corn known for its sweetness.
- Golden Bantam: A historic yellow variety that is sweet and tender.
Choosing the Right Corn
When selecting sweet corn for grilling, look for freshness. Here are few tips to ensure you select the best corn:
- Check the husk: It should be bright green and tightly wrapped around the cob.
- Inspect the kernels: Gently press on a kernel; it should be plump and juicy, and milky fluid should ooze out if it’s perfectly ripe.
Preparing Sweet Corn for the BBQ
Preparation is key to achieving perfectly grilled corn. Here are several popular methods for preparing sweet corn before cooking:
Peeling the Husk
One popular method is to leave the corn in its husk while it grills. This method helps to steam the corn while protecting it from the direct heat of the grill. However, if you prefer a charred flavor, you might want to peel the husk completely or partially.
Steps for Peeling the Husk
- Remove the outer husk layers gently, but leave a few layers on for insulation.
- Snap off the silk at the top of the cob.
- Rinse the corn under cool water to remove any remaining silk.
Soaking the Cobs
If you decide to leave the husk on, soaking the cobs in water for about 15 to 30 minutes is recommended. This method prevents the husks from burning too quickly and adds moisture to the corn during grilling.
Methods for Cooking Sweet Corn on the BBQ
There are several cooking techniques you can use to grill sweet corn, each offering a unique flavor experience. Let’s look at three popular methods: grilling in the husk, grilling without husk, and foil-wrapped grilling.
Grilling in the Husk
Grilling sweet corn in its husk is a convenient method that keeps the kernels moist and tender.
Steps for Grilling in Husks
- Soak the husked corn: As previously mentioned, soak the corn in water to create steam while grilling.
- Preheat the grill: Start your BBQ and preheat it to medium heat.
- Wrap in foil (optional): For added protection, you can wrap the husked corn in foil.
- Place on the grill: Put the corn—either wrapped or unwrapped—directly on the grill grates.
- Grill for 15-20 minutes: Turn the corn every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Check for doneness: When the hairs (silk) at the top are charred, the corn is usually ready.
This method allows for a subtle smokiness while retaining the natural flavor of the corn.
Grilling Without the Husk
For those who enjoy a bit of char on their corn, grilling without the husk is the way to go.
Steps for Grilling Without Husks
- Peel completely: Remove the husk and silk entirely.
- Brush with oil: Drizzle olive or vegetable oil over the cobs to prevent sticking.
- Season to taste: Sprinkle salt or your favorite seasoning blend.
- Place on the grill: Put the corn directly on the hottest part of the grill.
- Grill for 10-15 minutes: Turn frequently, until you see char marks and the kernels are tender.
This method provides a delicious caramelization and a grilled flavor that many love.
Foil-Wrapped Grilling
Foil-wrapping is a versatile method that allows for various flavor infusions. You can add butter, garlic, herbs, or spice mixtures within the foil.
Steps for Foil-Wrapped Grilling
- Prepare your ingredients: Gather corn, butter or oil, and preferred spices.
- Wrap the corn: Lay the corn on a sheet of aluminum foil. Add butter and seasonings, then wrap it tightly.
- Heat the grill: Preheat your BBQ to a medium setting.
- Place wrapped corn on the grill: Position the foil packets on the grill grate.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes: Turn the foil packets occasionally so they cook evenly.
This method locks in moisture and enhances flavor for a mouthwatering side dish.
Flavor Variations and Enhancements
While sweet corn on its own is delicious, there are many ways to elevate its flavor profile:
Butter and Seasonings
The classic choice, butter and salt, can be taken up a notch. Here are some enhancements to try:
- **Garlic Herb Butter**: Mix butter with minced garlic and fresh herbs for a fragrant topping.
- **Chili Lime**: Combine melted butter with chili powder, lime juice, and cilantro for a zesty kick.
Cheesy Corn Delight
Adding cheese to your grilled corn adds creaminess and a savory edge. Some excellent choices include:
- Crumbled feta
- Cotija cheese
- Grated Parmesan
Simply finish the corn with a sprinkle of cheese while it’s still hot so it melts onto the kernels.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Sweet Corn
Now that you have methods and flavor ideas at your disposal, let’s cover some essential tips to ensure your sweet corn turns out perfectly every time.
Choosing the Right Grill Temperature
Maintaining the right grill temperature is crucial. Cooking at too high heat can lead to uneven cooking, while low heat may cause the corn to steam rather than char. Aim for a medium heat setting for optimal outcomes.
Timing is Everything
The cooking time can vary based on your chosen method. Remember that sweet corn typically takes about 10-20 minutes to cook, depending on husk usage and grill temperature. Be sure to check for doneness by piercing a kernel—if it’s tender and sweet, it’s ready to serve.
Rest Before Serving
After you remove the corn from the grill, let it sit for a few minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes the corn easier to handle.
Serving Suggestions for BBQ Sweet Corn
Grilled sweet corn pairs beautifully with various dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
Classic Barbecue Sides
- BBQ Ribs: The sweetness of the corn complements the smokey flavors of barbecued ribs.
- Potato Salad: A cool potato salad can balance the heat of grilled corn.
Fresh and Light Dishes
- Corn Salad: Combine grilled corn with diced tomatoes, avocado, and lime dressing for a refreshing salad.
- Tacos: Use grilled corn as a topping for tacos, enhancing their flavor and crunch.
Conclusion
Cooking sweet corn on the BBQ can be a delightful culinary experience. Whether you prefer it grilled in the husk, without husks, or wrapped in foil, the result is always a delicious and satisfying side dish. Don’t forget to experiment with different flavor combinations to find your perfect match and impress your guests. The next time you fire up the grill, let sweet corn take the spotlight on your BBQ menu! Enjoy your culinary journey and the delicious results!
What is the best way to prepare sweet corn for grilling?
To prepare sweet corn for grilling, start by selecting fresh and ripe ears. Look for bright green husks, tightly packed kernels, and moist silk. You can grill corn in the husk, which protects it during cooking, or husk it completely for a charred flavor. If you decide to keep the husks on, soak the ears in water for about 15-30 minutes prior to grilling. This will help prevent them from burning and keep the corn moist.
If you opt to remove the husks, you can either trim the silky threads or leave them for a rustic presentation. Apply a bit of oil or butter to the kernels to enhance their flavor and help achieve a nice grill mark. Season with salt, pepper, or your favorite spices for an extra flavor boost. Once prepared, the corn is ready for the grill.
How long should I grill sweet corn?
Grilling sweet corn usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the heat of your BBQ and whether you’re grilling in the husk or not. For corn in husks, grill over medium-high heat, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove it from the grill when you can smell its sweet aroma and see some charred spots on the husks.
For husked corn, you typically want to grill over direct medium heat, turning every 2-3 minutes. The goal is to get those lovely char marks while keeping the kernels tender. Once the kernels are plump and slightly charred, your grilled corn is ready to be served.
Do I need to soak corn before grilling?
Soaking corn before grilling is particularly useful if you’re grilling it with the husks still on. Submerging the ears in water for 15-30 minutes hydrates the husks, preventing them from burning too quickly and helping retain moisture inside. This technique results in juicy, flavorful corn that won’t dry out on the grill.
If you’ve husked the corn, soaking is not necessary. However, you can soak the corn in a brine solution for extra seasoning. This will enhance the overall flavor and tenderness of the kernels. Whatever your choice, ensure that your corn is prepared in a way that best suits your taste preferences.
What should I serve with grilled sweet corn?
Grilled sweet corn pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It’s a classic complement to BBQ fare like burgers, ribs, and hot dogs, adding a touch of sweetness and crunch to your meal. You can also serve it alongside salads, pasta dishes, or grilled vegetables for a complete summer feast. Consider creating a festive corn salad to highlight its flavors.
For an added twist, try serving the corn with various flavored butters or toppings. Options like garlic herb butter, chili-lime butter, or cheese and herbs can elevate the simple ear of corn into a gourmet side dish. The possibilities are endless, so choose sides that reflect your personal taste and enhance the overall meal experience.
Can I grill frozen corn?
Yes, you can grill frozen corn, but it’s important to thaw it first to achieve the best results. To grill frozen corn, remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it on low for a few minutes or submerge it in warm water to speed up the thawing process. Once thawed, you can season and prepare it just like fresh corn.
When grilling thawed corn, you may want to consider wrapping the kernels in aluminum foil to prevent them from falling through the grill grates. This also allows you to add spices and butter within the pouch for flavor. Grill it over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender. This method yields delicious, smoky corn even when using frozen kernels.
What are some creative ways to season grilled corn?
There are countless ways to season grilled corn, transforming it from a simple side dish into a flavor-packed star on your BBQ plate. Common toppings include seasoned butters, such as chipotle lime, garlic herb, or parmesan and basil. Simply melt your butter of choice and mix in spices, then slather it onto your grilled corn right before serving.
You can also experiment with dry seasonings and marinades. Consider combinations like chili powder, lime juice, and salt for a zesty kick, or go for Mediterranean flavors with oregano and feta cheese. Additionally, you might try drizzling the corn with balsamic glaze or adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to elevate its freshness. The versatility of sweet corn allows for endless culinary creativity.
How can I store leftover grilled corn?
To store leftover grilled corn, let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Wrap each ear of corn in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. You can also cut the kernels off the cob and place them in an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, grilled corn can stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days.
If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the kernels. Cut the corn off the cob and spread the kernels in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. This method allows you to enjoy grilled corn even months later, making it a convenient option for meals. Just remember to thaw it properly before reheating for the best texture and flavor.