The sweet, smoky flavor of grilled corn on the cob is a staple of summer barbecues. While many of us are familiar with grilling corn that’s been shucked and slathered in butter, have you ever wondered if you can put corn in a husk on the BBQ? The answer is a resounding yes, and it’s a game-changer for corn lovers everywhere.
The Benefits of Grilling Corn in the Husk
Grilling corn in the husk offers several advantages over traditional shucked corn. For one, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Simply soak the corn in water for about 30 minutes, shake off any excess moisture, and throw it on the grill. The husk acts as a natural wrapper, steaming the corn to perfection and infusing it with a rich, smoky flavor.
Another benefit of grilling corn in the husk is that it helps retain moisture. When you shuck corn, it can quickly become dry and brittle, especially if it’s overcooked. The husk helps to lock in the natural juices of the corn, resulting in a tender, succulent snack that’s perfect for hot summer days.
How to Grill Corn in the Husk
Grilling corn in the husk is a relatively straightforward process, but there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
- Soak the corn: Begin by soaking the corn in water for about 30 minutes. This will help to rehydrate the husk and prevent it from burning on the grill.
- Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want the grill to be hot, but not so hot that it burns the husk.
- Shake off excess moisture: Remove the corn from the water and shake off any excess moisture. You want the corn to be damp, but not soaking wet.
- Grill the corn: Place the corn on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes. You may see the husk start to char and blacken – this is perfectly normal.
- Check for doneness: To check if the corn is cooked, carefully remove a piece from the grill and peel back the husk. The corn should be tender and lightly browned. If it’s not cooked to your liking, return it to the grill for a few more minutes.
Tips for Achieving Perfectly Grilled Corn
While grilling corn in the husk is a relatively simple process, there are a few tips to keep in mind to achieve perfectly grilled corn:
- Use the right type of corn: Look for corn that’s specifically labeled as “grilling corn” or “sweet corn.” This type of corn is higher in moisture and will yield a sweeter, more tender snack.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill: Make sure to leave a little space between each piece of corn. This will allow for even cooking and prevent the corn from steaming instead of grilling.
- Don’t be afraid to get a little char: A little char on the husk is perfectly normal and will add a rich, smoky flavor to the corn.
Variations on Grilled Corn in the Husk
While grilled corn in the husk is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to mix things up and add a little extra flavor. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Herbs and spices: Try adding a sprinkle of herbs and spices to the corn before grilling. Paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder are all great options.
- Cheese and chili: Once the corn is cooked, slather it in butter and sprinkle with grated cheese and chili powder.
- Lime and cotija: Squeeze a little lime juice over the corn and sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese.
Grilled Corn in the Husk Around the World
Grilled corn in the husk is a popular snack in many parts of the world. Here are a few international variations to try:
- Elotes (Mexico): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and chili powder.
- Grilled corn with miso butter (Japan): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in a mixture of miso paste, butter, and soy sauce.
- Grilled corn with peri-peri sauce (South Africa): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in a spicy peri-peri sauce made with chili peppers, garlic, and lemon juice.
A Brief History of Grilled Corn
Grilled corn has a long and storied history that dates back thousands of years. Corn was first domesticated in Mexico around 7,000 years ago, and it quickly became a staple crop in many parts of the world. Grilled corn was a popular snack in ancient Mesoamerica, where it was often served at special occasions and ceremonies.
Today, grilled corn is enjoyed all over the world, from the streets of Mexico City to the backyards of suburban America. Whether you’re grilling corn in the husk or slathering it in butter and cheese, there’s no denying the simple, satisfying pleasure of a perfectly grilled ear of corn.
Conclusion
Grilling corn in the husk is a delicious and easy way to enjoy one of summer’s simplest pleasures. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, this technique is sure to become a staple of your outdoor cooking repertoire. So next time you’re firing up the grill, be sure to throw on a few ears of corn and give this technique a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
What are the benefits of grilling corn in the husk?
Grilling corn in the husk is a great way to prepare this popular summer side dish. One of the main benefits is that it helps 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 serve, as the husk provides a natural handle.
Another benefit of grilling corn in the husk is that it adds a smoky flavor to the corn. The husk absorbs the smoky flavor from the grill and transfers it to the corn, giving it a delicious and unique taste. This method also helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the corn, making it a perfect side dish for any summer BBQ.
How do I prepare the corn for grilling in the husk?
To prepare the corn for grilling in the husk, start by soaking 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. Next, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating up, remove the corn from the water and shake off any excess moisture.
Once the grill is hot, place the corn on the grill and close the lid. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until the husk is charred and the corn is tender. You can also add some seasonings or butter to the corn before grilling for extra flavor.
Can I use any type of corn for grilling in the husk?
While you can use any type of corn for grilling in the husk, some types work better than others. Sweet corn is the most popular type of corn for grilling, as it is naturally sweet and tender. Other types of corn, such as yellow or white corn, can also be used, but they may not be as sweet.
It’s also important to choose corn that is fresh and has a moist husk. Avoid using corn that is old or has a dry husk, as it may not grill well. You can also use frozen corn, but it’s best to thaw it first before grilling.
How do I know when the corn is done grilling?
To know when the corn is done grilling, check the husk for charring and the corn for tenderness. The husk should be slightly charred and the corn should be tender and slightly softened. You can also check the corn by pulling back the husk and checking the kernels. If they are slightly softened and lightly browned, the corn is done.
Another way to check if the corn is done is to listen for a slight popping sound. When the corn is grilled, the kernels will start to pop, indicating that it’s done. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the corn. It should be around 160°F to 170°F.
Can I add any seasonings or toppings to the corn while it’s grilling?
Yes, you can add seasonings or toppings to the corn while it’s grilling. Some popular seasonings include butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You can also add some grated cheese, such as parmesan or cotija, for extra flavor.
To add seasonings or toppings, simply brush the corn with melted butter or oil and sprinkle with your desired seasonings. You can also wrap the corn in foil with some seasonings and grill it that way. This will help to keep the seasonings from falling off while the corn is grilling.
How do I serve grilled corn in the husk?
Grilled corn in the husk can be served as a side dish or as a snack. To serve, simply pull back the husk and slather with butter or mayonnaise. You can also sprinkle with some grated cheese, chili powder, or lime juice for extra flavor.
Grilled corn in the husk is also a great addition to any summer BBQ or picnic. You can serve it alongside other grilled meats, such as burgers or hot dogs, or as a side dish to salads or sandwiches. It’s also a great snack to munch on while watching a game or enjoying the outdoors.
Can I grill corn in the husk in advance and reheat it later?
Yes, you can grill corn in the husk in advance and reheat it later. To reheat, simply wrap the corn in foil and heat it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat it on the grill by wrapping it in foil and grilling for 5-10 minutes.
It’s best to reheat the corn within a day or two of grilling, as it will lose its flavor and texture if it’s reheated too long after grilling. You can also store the grilled corn in the refrigerator for up to a day before reheating.