The sweet, smoky flavor of grilled corn on the cob is a staple of summer barbecues and outdoor gatherings. While some people prefer to grill their corn without the husk, leaving it on can add an extra layer of flavor and texture to this delicious side dish. But how long do you leave corn in the husk on the grill? In this article, we’ll explore the best techniques for grilling corn in the husk, including the ideal cooking time, temperature, and tips for achieving perfectly grilled corn every time.
Why Grill Corn in the Husk?
Grilling corn in the husk has several advantages over grilling it without. For one, the husk acts as a natural steamer, trapping moisture and heat around the corn and helping to cook it evenly. This can result in a more tender, juicy ear of corn with a slightly charred exterior. Additionally, the husk can add a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to the corn that’s hard to replicate with other cooking methods.
The Benefits of Grilling Corn in the Husk
There are several benefits to grilling corn in the husk, including:
- Even cooking: The husk helps to distribute heat evenly around the corn, ensuring that it’s cooked consistently throughout.
- Moisture retention: The husk traps moisture around the corn, keeping it juicy and tender.
- Smoky flavor: The husk can add a rich, smoky flavor to the corn that’s perfect for summer barbecues.
- Easy to handle: Grilled corn in the husk is easy to handle and serve, as the husk acts as a natural wrapper.
How to Grill Corn in the Husk
Grilling corn in the husk is a relatively simple process that requires just a few basic steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
Before grilling, make sure to soak the corn in water for at least 30 minutes. This will help to keep the husk moist and prevent it from burning on the grill. You can also add a tablespoon or two of olive oil to the water for extra flavor.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F). Make sure to clean the grates with a wire brush to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Grill the Corn
Place the corn on the grill, husk side down. Close the lid and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the husk is lightly charred and the corn is tender. You can rotate the corn every 5 minutes or so to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
To check if the corn is done, carefully remove one ear from the grill and peel back the husk. If the corn is tender and lightly browned, it’s ready to eat. If not, return it to the grill for an additional 5-10 minutes.
How Long to Leave Corn in the Husk on the Grill
The ideal cooking time for grilled corn in the husk will depend on the heat of your grill and the freshness of the corn. As a general rule, you can follow these guidelines:
- Medium heat (around 325°F): 15-20 minutes
- Medium-high heat (around 375°F): 10-15 minutes
- High heat (around 425°F): 5-10 minutes
Keep in mind that these are just rough estimates, and the actual cooking time may vary depending on your specific grill and the corn you’re using.
Tips for Achieving Perfectly Grilled Corn
Here are a few tips to help you achieve perfectly grilled corn every time:
- Soak the corn in water before grilling to keep the husk moist and prevent burning.
- Use a medium-high heat to achieve a nice char on the husk and a tender interior.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill, as this can prevent even cooking and lead to burnt or undercooked corn.
- Rotate the corn regularly to ensure even cooking and prevent hot spots.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While grilling corn in the husk is a relatively simple process, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Not soaking the corn in water, which can lead to a dry, brittle husk that’s prone to burning.
- Overcrowding the grill, which can prevent even cooking and lead to burnt or undercooked corn.
- Not rotating the corn regularly, which can lead to hot spots and uneven cooking.
Conclusion
Grilling corn in the husk is a delicious and easy way to add some smoky flavor to your summer barbecues. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can achieve perfectly grilled corn every time. Remember to soak the corn in water, use a medium-high heat, and rotate the corn regularly to ensure even cooking. With a little practice, you’ll be grilling like a pro in no time!
| Cooking Time | Heat Level |
|---|---|
| 15-20 minutes | Medium (around 325°F) |
| 10-15 minutes | Medium-high (around 375°F) |
| 5-10 minutes | High (around 425°F) |
By following these guidelines and tips, you’ll be able to grill delicious corn in the husk that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Happy grilling!
What are the benefits of grilling corn in the husk?
Grilling corn in the husk is a popular method for preparing this summer staple, and for good reason. One of the main benefits of grilling corn in the husk is that it helps to retain moisture and flavor. The husk acts as a natural steamer, keeping the corn tender and juicy. Additionally, grilling corn in the husk makes it easier to handle and turn, reducing the risk of burning or charring.
Another benefit of grilling corn in the husk is that it allows for even cooking. The husk helps to distribute heat evenly, ensuring that the corn is cooked consistently throughout. This method also eliminates the need for constant monitoring, as the husk will naturally char and blacken, indicating that the corn is cooked to perfection.
How do I prepare corn for grilling in the husk?
To prepare corn for grilling in the husk, start by selecting fresh, high-quality ears of corn. Look for ears with tightly closed husks and no visible signs of mold or rot. Next, soak the corn in water for at least 30 minutes to help keep the husks moist and prevent them from burning on the grill.
Once the corn has soaked, remove it from the water and gently shake off any excess moisture. You can also add flavorings such as butter, salt, and pepper to the corn at this stage, if desired. Finally, place the corn on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until the husks are charred and the corn is tender.
What type of grill is best for grilling corn in the husk?
Any type of grill can be used for grilling corn in the husk, but a gas or charcoal grill is recommended. These types of grills provide a high heat output, which is necessary for charring the husks and cooking the corn evenly. If you have a gas grill, make sure to preheat it to medium-high heat before adding the corn.
If you have a charcoal grill, you can adjust the heat output by adjusting the vents. Make sure to have a good bed of coals before adding the corn, as this will help to distribute heat evenly. Avoid using an electric grill, as it may not provide enough heat to properly char the husks.
How long does it take to grill corn in the husk?
The cooking time for grilling corn in the husk will depend on the heat output of your grill and the freshness of the corn. On average, it takes 10-15 minutes to grill corn in the husk, turning every 2-3 minutes, until the husks are charred and the corn is tender. You can check for doneness by gently pulling back the husk and checking the color of the corn.
If the corn is not yet tender, continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes and check again. It’s also important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of the ears of corn. Larger ears may take longer to cook, while smaller ears may be done more quickly.
Can I grill corn in the husk at a low temperature?
While it is possible to grill corn in the husk at a low temperature, it’s not recommended. Grilling at a low temperature can result in uneven cooking and a lack of charring on the husks. This can lead to a less flavorful and less tender final product.
For best results, grill corn in the husk at a medium-high heat, turning every 2-3 minutes, until the husks are charred and the corn is tender. This will help to bring out the natural sweetness of the corn and add a smoky flavor from the grill.
How do I serve grilled corn in the husk?
Grilled corn in the husk can be served in a variety of ways. One popular method is to slather the corn with butter, salt, and pepper, and serve as a side dish. You can also add other flavorings such as garlic, chili powder, or lime juice to give the corn an extra boost of flavor.
Another way to serve grilled corn in the husk is to use it as an ingredient in other dishes. Grilled corn can be added to salads, soups, and salsas, or used as a topping for tacos or grilled meats. You can also remove the corn from the husk and serve it on its own as a snack or side dish.
Can I grill corn in the husk ahead of time?
While it’s possible to grill corn in the husk ahead of time, it’s not recommended. Grilled corn is best served immediately, as it will begin to lose its flavor and texture if it’s allowed to sit for too long.
If you need to grill corn ahead of time, it’s best to grill it until it’s just tender, then let it cool to room temperature. You can then refrigerate or freeze the corn until you’re ready to serve it. To reheat, simply wrap the corn in foil and heat it in the oven or on the grill until warmed through.