Skewering corn is an art that requires some skill and patience, but with the right techniques and tools, you can achieve perfectly grilled and delicious corn on the cob every time. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a beginner, this article will walk you through the process of skewering corn, providing you with valuable tips and tricks to take your grilling game to the next level.
Choosing the Right Corn
Before we dive into the process of skewering corn, it’s essential to choose the right type of corn. There are several varieties of corn, but for grilling, you’ll want to use sweet corn or corn on the cob. Sweet corn is high in moisture and natural sugars, making it perfect for grilling. Look for corn with bright green husks and moist, plump kernels.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Corn
When selecting corn, consider the following factors:
- Freshness: Choose corn with bright green husks and moist, plump kernels.
- Variety: Opt for sweet corn or corn on the cob.
- Seasonality: Corn is typically in season from May to October.
- Quality: Avoid corn with dry, wrinkled husks or kernels that are soft or mushy.
Preparing the Corn
Once you’ve chosen the right corn, it’s time to prepare it for skewering. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your corn:
Removing the Husks and Silks
To remove the husks and silks, follow these steps:
- Hold the corn vertically and grasp the top of the husk.
- Gently pull the husk downwards, removing it from the corn.
- Continue to remove the husk until it’s completely gone.
- Use a soft brush or a paper towel to remove any remaining silks.
Trimming the Ends
Trimming the ends of the corn is essential to prevent the corn from burning during grilling. To trim the ends, follow these steps:
- Hold the corn vertically and locate the stem end.
- Cut off the stem end, leaving about 1 inch of the cob intact.
- Repeat the process on the other end of the corn.
Skewering the Corn
Now that your corn is prepared, it’s time to skewer it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to skewer your corn:
Choosing the Right Skewers
When it comes to skewering corn, you’ll want to use skewers that are sturdy and can withstand high temperatures. Here are some options:
- Metal skewers: Metal skewers are ideal for grilling corn. They’re durable, easy to clean, and can withstand high temperatures.
- Bamboo skewers: Bamboo skewers are a popular choice for grilling corn. They’re eco-friendly, inexpensive, and can add a smoky flavor to your corn.
Skewering the Corn
To skewer your corn, follow these steps:
- Hold the corn vertically and locate the center of the cob.
- Insert the skewer into the center of the cob, making sure it’s straight and even.
- Continue to insert the skewer until it reaches the other end of the corn.
- Repeat the process with the remaining corn.
Grilling the Corn
Now that your corn is skewered, it’s time to grill it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grill your corn:
Preheating the Grill
Before grilling your corn, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. You can test the heat by holding your hand about 5 inches above the grill grates. If you can hold your hand for 2-3 seconds, the grill is ready.
Grilling the Corn
To grill your corn, follow these steps:
- Place the skewered corn on the grill, leaving about 1 inch of space between each piece.
- Close the grill lid and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning the corn every 2-3 minutes.
- Continue to cook the corn until it’s lightly charred and tender.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to take your grilled corn to the next level:
- Brush with oil and season with salt and pepper before grilling for added flavor.
- Add herbs and spices such as paprika, garlic powder, or chili powder for extra flavor.
- Grill with the husks on for a smoky flavor and to prevent the corn from drying out.
- Try different types of corn such as white corn, yellow corn, or bi-colored corn for varying flavors and textures.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When skewering and grilling corn, there are several common mistakes to avoid:
- Not preheating the grill can result in uneven cooking and a lack of flavor.
- Not turning the corn frequently can cause the corn to burn or become unevenly cooked.
- Not brushing with oil and seasoning can result in dry, flavorless corn.
Conclusion
Skewering corn is an art that requires some skill and patience, but with the right techniques and tools, you can achieve perfectly grilled and delicious corn on the cob every time. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a corn-grilling master. Remember to choose the right corn, prepare it properly, skewer it with care, and grill it to perfection. Happy grilling!
What is the best type of corn to use for skewering?
The best type of corn to use for skewering is sweet corn, specifically varieties that are high in moisture and have a tender kernel. Some popular varieties include Silver Queen, Golden Bantam, and Honey & Cream. These types of corn are perfect for skewering because they are sweet, tender, and have a high moisture content that will help them stay juicy and flavorful when grilled.
When selecting corn for skewering, look for ears that are heavy for their size and have a slightly soft feel to the kernels. Avoid ears that are too old or dry, as they may be tough and fibrous. You can also use frozen or canned corn as a substitute, but fresh corn is always the best option for optimal flavor and texture.
What type of skewers are best for corn?
The best type of skewers for corn are bamboo or metal skewers that are at least 10 inches long. Bamboo skewers are a popular choice because they are inexpensive, biodegradable, and can be easily soaked in water to prevent them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers, on the other hand, are more durable and can be reused multiple times.
When using bamboo skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from catching fire. If using metal skewers, make sure to oil them lightly before threading the corn to prevent sticking. You can also use wooden skewers, but they may require more maintenance and can be more prone to burning.
How do I prepare the corn for skewering?
To prepare the corn for skewering, start by husking the ears and removing the silk. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk or debris. Pat the corn dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. You can also brush the corn with a little bit of oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.
Next, thread the corn onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece. You can also add other ingredients to the skewers, such as cherry tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, to create a colorful and flavorful kebab. Make sure to leave a small space at the end of the skewer to make it easy to turn and remove from the grill.
What is the best way to grill the corn skewers?
The best way to grill the corn skewers is over medium-high heat, turning frequently to ensure even cooking. Preheat the grill to 375°F (190°C) and brush the grates with a little bit of oil to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until the corn is lightly charred and tender.
Make sure to keep an eye on the skewers while they are grilling, as the corn can go from perfectly cooked to burnt quickly. You can also rotate the skewers 90 degrees after 5 minutes to get a nice crosshatch pattern on the corn. Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the grill and serve immediately.
Can I cook the corn skewers in the oven instead of grilling?
Yes, you can cook the corn skewers in the oven instead of grilling. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little bit of oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes, until the corn is lightly browned and tender.
Cooking the corn skewers in the oven is a great option if you don’t have access to a grill or prefer a more hands-off approach. You can also broil the skewers for an additional 2-3 minutes to get a nice char on the corn. Just keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn.
How do I serve the grilled corn skewers?
The grilled corn skewers can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or snack. You can serve them on their own or with a variety of dips and sauces, such as butter, mayonnaise, sour cream, or salsa. You can also sprinkle with grated cheese, chopped herbs, or a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor.
Grilled corn skewers are also a great addition to salads, tacos, and other dishes. You can chop the cooked corn off the skewers and add it to a salad or use it as a topping for tacos or grilled meats. You can also serve the skewers as a fun and easy snack for parties or barbecues.
Can I make the corn skewers ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the corn skewers ahead of time, but it’s best to grill them just before serving. You can prepare the corn and thread it onto the skewers up to a day in advance, but make sure to store them in the refrigerator until ready to grill. You can also grill the skewers ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day.
If you need to make the skewers ahead of time, it’s best to cook them until they are lightly browned and then finish them off on the grill just before serving. This will help to preserve the texture and flavor of the corn. You can also reheat the cooked skewers in the oven or on the grill if needed.