Grilling corn on the cob with the husk on is a popular method for cooking this summer staple. Not only does it add a smoky flavor to the corn, but it also helps retain moisture and makes the cooking process easier. However, one of the most common questions people have when grilling corn on the cob with the husk on is how long it takes to cook. In this article, we will explore the factors that affect the cooking time of grilled corn on the cob with the husk on and provide some general guidelines for achieving perfectly cooked ears.
Factors Affecting Cooking Time
The cooking time of grilled corn on the cob with the husk on can vary depending on several factors, including:
Corn Variety
Different varieties of corn have different moisture contents and densities, which can affect the cooking time. For example, sweet corn varieties tend to have a higher moisture content than dent corn varieties, which means they may take longer to cook.
Heat Level
The heat level of your grill can also impact the cooking time of your corn. If you’re grilling over high heat, your corn will cook faster than if you’re grilling over low heat.
Husk Thickness
The thickness of the husk can also affect the cooking time. Thicker husks can take longer to cook through than thinner husks.
Corn Size
The size of the corn ears can also impact the cooking time. Larger ears of corn may take longer to cook than smaller ears.
General Guidelines for Cooking Time
While the cooking time of grilled corn on the cob with the husk on can vary depending on the factors mentioned above, here are some general guidelines to follow:
- For medium-sized ears of corn, cook for 10-15 minutes over medium heat, turning every 2-3 minutes.
- For larger ears of corn, cook for 15-20 minutes over medium heat, turning every 2-3 minutes.
- For smaller ears of corn, cook for 5-10 minutes over medium heat, turning every 2-3 minutes.
It’s also important to note that you should cook your corn until the husks are charred and the corn is tender. You can check for doneness by pulling back the husk and checking the kernels. They should be slightly softened and lightly browned.
How to Grill Corn on the Cob with the Husk On
Grilling corn on the cob with the husk on is a relatively simple process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to follow:
Step 1: Preheat Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat. You can use either a gas or charcoal grill for this method.
Step 2: Soak the Corn
Soak the corn in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will help keep the corn moist and prevent it from burning.
Step 3: Grill the Corn
Place the corn on the grill and close the lid. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, or until the husks are charred and the corn is tender.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
Check the corn for doneness by pulling back the husk and checking the kernels. They should be slightly softened and lightly browned.
Tips for Achieving Perfectly Cooked Corn
Here are some tips for achieving perfectly cooked corn on the cob with the husk on:
- Make sure to soak the corn in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will help keep the corn moist and prevent it from burning.
- Use a medium heat level when grilling. High heat can cause the corn to burn, while low heat can cause it to cook too slowly.
- Turn the corn every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill. Cook the corn in batches if necessary, to ensure that each ear has enough room to cook evenly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when grilling corn on the cob with the husk on:
- Not soaking the corn in water before grilling. This can cause the corn to dry out and burn.
- Using too high of a heat level. This can cause the corn to burn on the outside before it’s fully cooked on the inside.
- Not turning the corn frequently enough. This can cause the corn to cook unevenly and develop hot spots.
Conclusion
Grilling corn on the cob with the husk on is a delicious and easy way to cook this summer staple. By following the general guidelines for cooking time and tips for achieving perfectly cooked corn, you can enjoy delicious, smoky corn all summer long. Remember to soak the corn in water before grilling, use a medium heat level, and turn the corn frequently to ensure even cooking. With a little practice, you’ll be a pro at grilling corn on the cob with the husk on in no time.
| Corn Size | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| Small | 5-10 minutes |
| Medium | 10-15 minutes |
| Large | 15-20 minutes |
By following these guidelines and tips, you can achieve perfectly cooked corn on the cob with the husk on every time. Happy grilling!
What are the benefits of grilling corn on the cob with the husk on?
Grilling corn on the cob with the husk on is a popular method for cooking corn because it helps retain moisture and flavor. The husk acts as a natural steamer, keeping the corn tender and juicy. Additionally, the husk protects the corn from direct heat, preventing it from burning or becoming too charred.
This method also makes it easier to handle the corn while it’s grilling, as the husk provides a natural handle. Furthermore, grilling with the husk on allows for a more even cooking process, as the heat is distributed evenly throughout the ear of corn. This results in a perfectly cooked ear of corn with a tender, slightly smoky flavor.
How do I prepare the corn for grilling with the husk on?
To prepare the corn for grilling with the husk on, start by soaking the ears of corn in water for at least 30 minutes. This will help to keep the husk moist and prevent it from burning while grilling. Next, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating up, remove the corn from the water and gently shake off any excess moisture.
Once the grill is hot, place the ears of corn on the grill, husk side down. Close the lid and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking. You may see the husk start to char and smoke, but this is normal. The husk will start to pull away from the corn as it cooks, indicating that it’s done.
How long does it take to grill corn on the cob with the husk on?
The grilling time for corn on the cob with the husk on will depend on the heat of your grill and the size of the ears of corn. Generally, it takes around 10-15 minutes to grill corn with the husk on, turning every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking. You can check for doneness by gently pulling back the husk and checking the kernels. They should be tender and lightly browned.
It’s also important to note that the grilling time may vary depending on the type of corn you’re using. Some varieties of corn, such as silver queen or golden bantam, may take longer to cook than others. To ensure perfectly cooked corn, it’s best to check on it frequently and adjust the grilling time as needed.
Can I grill corn on the cob with the husk on at a low heat?
While it’s possible to grill corn on the cob with the husk on at a low heat, it’s not recommended. Grilling at a low heat can result in uneven cooking and a lack of smoky flavor. The high heat of the grill helps to char the husk and add a smoky flavor to the corn.
If you do choose to grill at a low heat, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. It may take longer to cook the corn, and you’ll need to check on it frequently to ensure it’s not overcooking. However, for the best results, it’s recommended to grill at a medium-high heat to achieve a tender, slightly charred ear of corn.
How do I know when the corn is done grilling?
There are several ways to check if the corn is done grilling. One way is to gently pull back the husk and check the kernels. They should be tender and lightly browned. You can also check for doneness by inserting a knife or fork into the corn. If it slides in easily, the corn is cooked.
Another way to check for doneness is to look for visual cues. The husk should be charred and slightly blackened, and the corn should be slightly puffed up. You may also notice that the husk starts to pull away from the corn as it cooks, indicating that it’s done. By checking for these signs, you can ensure that your corn is perfectly cooked.
Can I add flavorings to the corn while it’s grilling?
Yes, you can add flavorings to the corn while it’s grilling. One way to do this is to slather the corn with butter, mayonnaise, or other spreads before grilling. You can also sprinkle the corn with seasonings, such as paprika, garlic powder, or chili powder, for added flavor.
Another way to add flavor is to soak the corn in a flavorful liquid, such as beer or broth, before grilling. This will help to infuse the corn with a rich, savory flavor. You can also try grilling the corn with other ingredients, such as onions or bell peppers, to add extra flavor and texture.
How do I serve grilled corn on the cob with the husk on?
Grilled corn on the cob with the husk on can be served in a variety of ways. One way is to simply pull back the husk and serve the corn as is. You can also slather the corn with butter, mayonnaise, or other spreads, and sprinkle with seasonings or herbs.
Another way to serve grilled corn is to remove the husk and silk, and serve the corn on a platter or individual plates. You can also try grilling the corn with other ingredients, such as onions or bell peppers, and serving them together as a side dish. Grilled corn on the cob with the husk on is a delicious and easy side dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues and picnics.