I have always loved the taste of sweet, juicy corn on the cob. There’s something about sinking your teeth into those plump kernels and feeling the burst of flavor in your mouth that is absolutely irresistible. But for years, I struggled with finding the perfect way to cook corn on the cob. Boiling it seemed like too much of a hassle, and grilling it took too long. That’s when I discovered the magic of microwaving corn in the husk.
The Game-Changing Method: Microwaving Corn in the Husk
I was skeptical at first, I mean, microwaving corn? It seemed too good to be true. But after giving it a try, I was blown away by the results. Microwaving corn in the husk is not only quick and easy, but it also yields perfectly steamed corn every time. Here’s a quick guide on how to do it:
Step 1: Choose the right corn
To ensure that you get the best results, it’s important to start with fresh corn. Look for ears that have bright green husks with tightly wrapped, plump kernels. Avoid corn with dry or brown husks, as they may be past their prime.
Step 2: Prep the corn
Before microwaving, you’ll want to remove any excess silk from the corn. Gently peel back the husks one layer at a time, starting from the bottom, and remove the silk from each layer. Be careful not to remove the husks entirely, as they will help trap steam and keep the corn moist during cooking.
Step 3: Soak the corn
Now, this step is optional but highly recommended. Soaking the corn in water before microwaving helps to prevent the husks from drying out and ensures that the corn is evenly steamed. Simply fill a large bowl or sink with water and submerge the corn for about 10 minutes. This will also help to prevent the husks from catching fire in the microwave.
Step 4: Microwave time!
Once the corn is prepped and soaked, it’s time to microwave. Place the corn in the microwave, ensuring that it’s standing upright. This will help the corn cook more evenly. If you have multiple ears of corn, you can microwave them all at once, just make sure there is enough space for the steam to circulate.
Step 5: Cooking time
Microwave cooking times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave and the size of the corn. As a general guideline, microwave the corn on high for 3-5 minutes per ear. If you’re unsure, start with 3 minutes and check for doneness. The corn should be hot and the kernels should be tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 6: Let it cool and husk
Once the corn is done microwaving, be careful when handling it as it will be hot. Using oven mitts or kitchen towels, carefully remove the corn from the microwave and let it cool for a few minutes. This will also allow the corn to finish steaming inside the husks.
When the corn is cool enough to handle, it’s time to husk. Gently peel back the husks, starting from the top, and work your way down to the base. The husks should come off easily, revealing the perfectly steamed corn inside.
Tips and Tricks
– Experiment with different cooking times to find your preferred level of tenderness. If you like your corn to be slightly crisp, reduce the cooking time. If you prefer it to be softer, increase the cooking time.
– If you want to add some extra flavor, you can season the corn with butter, salt, pepper, or any other seasoning of your choice before microwaving.
– If you’re cooking a large batch of corn, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Keep an eye on the corn and make adjustments as needed.
– You can also add some water to the bottom of the microwave-safe dish before placing the corn on top. This will help create steam and prevent the corn from drying out.
Microwaving corn in the husk has revolutionized the way I cook corn on the cob. It’s quick, easy, and delivers deliciously steamed corn with minimal effort. So the next time you’re craving that summer staple, give this method a try and prepare to be amazed by the results. Happy cooking!