Few issues are extra synonymous with summertime than sinking your tooth into a aromatic, steaming corn on the cob, contemporary off the grill. And whereas some purists declare corn wants completely no additions, I encourage to vary. Delicate enhancements can take a great corn on the cob and switch it right into a deal with you’ll be able to’t bear to place down. Right here’s all the things it’s worthwhile to know on easy methods to make this seasonal staple higher than ever:
Technique Issues: Earlier than we dive into the accoutrements, let’s take a fast have a look at corn-cooking 101. There about as many strategies to cooking corn as there are styles of the stuff (and there are millions of hybridized corn varieties, in case you have been questioning!). However maybe the largest mistake folks make when cooking a cob is eradicating the husk and silk previous to cooking. When left intact, this messy exterior truly acts as a pure steam bag for the kernels inside, serving to them to prepare dinner sooner whereas retaining moisture on the identical time. For those who’re cooking corn indoors, warmth up the oven to 350° F, and roast your un-shucked corn on a baking sheet for about 30-40 minutes, with the shorter cooking time reserved for the smallest cobs. For those who’re grilling exterior, soak the un-shucked corn in a water tub 10 minutes previous to placing onto the grill (so the husks don’t expend), and grill for about quarter-hour, turning just a few instances to char on all sides. Both means, while you peel away the husk, you’ll discover the mess related to shucking corn is now nearly non-existent … and also you’ll have a built-in “deal with” on the finish of the stalk to hold onto whereas having fun with the bounty of your efforts as properly.
Higher Than Butter: Cooking apart, it’s actually the brief window after the corn has cooked the place the actual culinary magic takes place. Arms down, my primary go-to addition to corn isn’t butter … it’s coconut oil. For those who haven’t tried coconut oil on corn earlier than, put together to try to muffle your cries of pleasure. This dairy-free, absolutely pure, and nutritionally-beneficial ingredient melts like butter however affords a richer, nearly creamy taste that completely balances the starchy sweetness of corn. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on prime, and you could simply discover your life full within the second of that first mouthful.
Spice It Up: After all, after getting your epic corn and coconut oil base, you’ll be able to actually get inventive. Coconut oil will assist your favourite spices and backyard herbs stick with the kernels, which provides visible magnificence and flavorful aptitude to this straightforward recipe. A basic “road corn” is normally sprinkled with chili powder, sea salt, cilantro, and lime, and generally with quite a lot of creamy sauce or cheese. For a more healthy model, use coconut oil instead of the cream sauce, and grated nuts like macadamia or small seeds like hemp or chia instead of the cheese. Different complimentary spices you can use embody cumin, cayenne, coriander, or garlic powder, and nearly any type of contemporary backyard herb, from chives to parsley, is a welcome addition.
Kernel Blissful: Corn actually doesn’t have to remain on the cob! You may create a crowd-pleasing salad in simply minutes. After you’ve roasted your corn, lower off the kernels as soon as the corn is cool sufficient to deal with. Heat some coconut oil in a sauté pan, and add some minced shallots or onion, in addition to any type of summer time vegetable, corresponding to bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, or tomatoes. Plant-based proteins like cooked quinoa or beans additionally make nice companions. Add the corn final, simply to sauté briefly and heat, and season with any of the afore-mentioned spices or herbs together with salt to style. Bonus factors for a drizzle of citrusy lime juice proper on the finish, and serve up some summer time in a bowl. Remaining word: At all times select natural corn to keep away from GMO’s!
