Corn is a favorite summer staple for many people, myself included. Whether it’s the sweet flavor, the crunchy texture, or the versatility of this golden vegetable, there’s no denying that corn is a crowd-pleaser. As the hot sunny days of summer approach, my craving for fresh corn on the cob only grows stronger. But sometimes, shucking and boiling corn can be a hassle. That’s when I discovered a quick and easy method to blanch corn in the microwave. In this article, I will take you through the step-by-step process of blanching corn in the microwave, so you can enjoy the taste of summer without the fuss.
Preparing the Corn
Gather Fresh Corn
Begin the process by selecting fresh corn from your local grocery store or farmers’ market. Look for ears of corn that have bright green husks, snugly fitting over plump kernels. When you gently peel back the husk, the corn should be milky and firm.
Shuck the Corn
Once you have your fresh corn, it’s time to remove the husk and silk. Start by peeling back the husk about one-third of the way down the ear. Be careful not to detach it completely, as you’ll need it to cover the corn during microwaving. Then, grip the exposed husk firmly and pull it downward, removing the husk and silk in one motion. Repeat this process for all your ears of corn.
Trim the Ends
After shucking the corn, it’s a good idea to trim the ends to ensure even cooking. Take a sharp knife and carefully cut off any excess stalk or silk sticking out from the top or bottom of the ear. This step is essential for an evenly cooked and appetizing corn on the cob.
Blanching the Corn
Prepare a Microwave-Safe Dish
Before you start microwaving the corn, you’ll need a microwave-safe dish to hold the ears of corn and a little bit of water. I find that a glass or ceramic dish works best, as it distributes heat more evenly. Place your shucked and trimmed ears of corn into the dish and add about half an inch of water.
Cover and Microwave
Now that your corn is in the dish, it’s time to cover it. To prevent splattering, cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or use microwave-safe plastic wrap. If using plastic wrap, make sure to create a small vent by leaving one corner slightly open. This vent will allow steam to escape and prevent an overly soggy corn.
Microwave According to Size
Microwaving times can vary depending on the size and quantity of corn you’re cooking. As a general guideline, microwave small to medium-sized ears for around 4 to 6 minutes, and larger ears for 6 to 8 minutes. Remember, these times are approximate, so you may need to adjust them slightly based on your microwave’s power.
Finishing Touches
Let It Rest
Once the microwaving time is up, carefully remove the dish from the microwave using oven mitts or a kitchen towel. Give the corn a gentle shake to remove any excess water before allowing it to rest for a couple of minutes. This resting period will allow the corn to finish cooking and the steam to settle, making it easier to handle.
Cool and Serve
After the brief resting period, carefully remove the cover from the dish. Be cautious, as hot steam may escape. Give the corn a touch test to make sure it’s cool enough to handle comfortably. Once it’s at a safe temperature, transfer the corn to a plate or a serving platter. Serve it plain with a side of butter, or get creative by adding a sprinkle of salt, a drizzle of lime, or your favorite seasoning blend.
A Summertime Favorite Made Easy
Blanching corn in the microwave is a quick and easy way to enjoy this summertime favorite. With just a few simple steps, you can have perfectly cooked corn on the cob without the hassle of boiling water or firing up the grill. As you explore this method, don’t be afraid to experiment with different cooking times or seasonings to find what suits your taste buds best. So, the next time you’re craving the taste of summer, grab some fresh corn, head to the microwave, and savor the deliciousness of blanched corn on the cob.