How to Grill Sweet Corn – 4 Ways
- by Omaha Steaks
- Last updated Aug 24, 2023
Fresh sweet corn is an amazing side dish in the summer months. Corn is incredibly versatile, but at Omaha Steaks, we’re a little partial to the grill. There are a number of delicious and easy ways grill to your corn, and nothing makes a better side for gourmet burgers and juicy steaks. We’re going to show you four simple ways to grill corn.
1. In the husk, steamed
Leave your corn in the husk. Some folks try to remove the silky fibers, but it’s not necessary. In most cases, it’s a good idea to soak your corn in water for 10-15 minutes before you grill it. If it’s very fresh (0-2 days from harvest), don’t bother. Then, just place your corn directly on the grill over medium heat.
– The husks will turn brown and crispy
– The corn inside will be perfectly steamed
– Delivers a natural, earthy taste
– Pull the husk back after cooking and use it as a handle
2. On the grates, plain
Crave a little blackening of your actual corn? Many of us do. Follow the same guidelines as above for soaking your corn, unless it’s super fresh. Then, peel back the husks, remove the silky fibers, and tie the husks back to make a handle. You can place your ears of corn right on the grill, but make sure to keep a close eye so they don’t burn too much.
– Some say to brine your corn in salt water –don’t! It’ll deflate your kernels.
– Don’t bother buttering your corn before you grill, either. It will just melt off and you’ll have to re-apply after.
– Serve simply with real butter and sea salt. Maybe a little black pepper.
3. On the grates, Elotes
Elote is Mexican grilled corn, and it’s amazing. Start by grilling your corn directly on the grates as above. While it’s cooking, whip up the magic: Mayonnaise with a splash of lime juice and sprinkling of chili powder and salt.
As soon as you pull the corn off the grill, slather it in this mixture and then roll it in crumbled Cotija cheese. Once your cobs are covered in incredible tangy, cheesy, savory goodness, top with fresh cilantro and squeeze a little extra lime juice on top. Hold it by the husk-handle and go to town!
4. In aluminum foil, with butter
One way to cook corn is to boil it, right? So why not boil it in butter? This combo method produces juicy, sweet, super-buttery corn that’ll blow people’s minds.
Pull the husk back and remove the silky fibers. Rub each cob very generously with real salted butter, and then wrap it completely in aluminum foil. Make sure you wrap it so that your butter won’t go anywhere. Grill the whole thing for 15 or 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
– Natural, sweet flavor of sweet corn
– Serve simply with sea salt
Check out more tips on how to grill amazing veggies including onions, corn, bell peppers, asparagus, carrots, and more!
More articles:
- How to Grill Steaks Perfectly … For Beginners
- How to Grill a Steak: 8 Tips for Success
- 5 Biggest Grilled Chicken Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in July 2018 and has been updated for freshness and comprehensiveness.
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