I absolutely love corn! It is one of those versatile vegetables that can be enjoyed in so many different ways. Whether it’s grilled on the barbecue, boiled on the stovetop, or baked in the oven, corn never fails to satisfy my taste buds. However, there’s one method of cooking corn that I find particularly convenient – using the microwave. In this article, I will share with you my quick and easy method of cooking corn ears in the microwave.
Why Choose the Microwave?
1. Time-Saving:
Using the microwave to cook corn is a huge time-saver. Unlike traditional cooking methods that may take up to 20-30 minutes, cooking corn in the microwave can be done in a matter of minutes. This is especially beneficial when you’re in a hurry or don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.
2. Convenience:
We all know that cooking can sometimes be a hassle, but the microwave makes things so much easier! You don’t have to worry about boiling a pot of water or preheating the oven. With the simple push of a button, your corn can be ready to eat in no time.
3. Energy Efficient:
Using the microwave to cook corn is also an energy-efficient choice. Microwaves use less energy compared to stovetops or ovens, making them a greener option in the kitchen. So not only are you saving time but also reducing your carbon footprint!
Steps to Cook Corn Ears in the Microwave
Step 1: Choose Fresh Corn Ears
Start by selecting fresh and tender corn ears from your local grocery store or farmer’s market. Look for ears that have bright green husks and moist silk. The fresher the corn, the better the taste!
Step 2: Remove the Husks and Silk
Remove the husks and silk from the corn ears. Peel back the husks from the top, keeping them intact at the base for easy handling. Remove the silk by brushing it off or using a vegetable brush if necessary. Rinse the corn under water to remove any remaining silk.
Step 3: Wrap in Damp Paper Towel
Place the corn in the center of a damp paper towel. The dampness of the towel will help to steam the corn as it cooks, keeping it moist and tender.
Step 4: Microwave on High
Place the wrapped corn on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for about 3-5 minutes per ear of corn. Cooking times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave and the size of the corn. It’s always best to start with a shorter cooking time and check for doneness before adding extra cooking time if needed.
Step 5: Let it Cool
Once the corn is cooked, carefully remove it from the microwave as it will be hot. Let it cool for a few minutes before unwrapping the paper towel.
Step 6: Season and Enjoy!
Now comes the fun part – seasoning and enjoying your perfectly cooked corn! You can slather it with butter, sprinkle it with salt and pepper, or get creative with your favorite spices and herbs. The possibilities are endless!
Tips and Variations
– If you prefer your corn to have a slightly charred flavor, you can grill it quickly after microwaving. Just brush the cooked corn with some oil and place it on a hot grill for a couple of minutes until you get those beautiful grill marks.
– Experiment with different seasonings and toppings to enhance the flavor of your corn. Some popular options include chili powder, grated cheese, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
– If you need to cook a large batch of corn, you can stack the ears on top of each other, making sure to wrap each one individually in a damp paper towel. Increase the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are all cooked through.
In conclusion, cooking corn ears in the microwave is a quick and convenient method that can save you time and energy in the kitchen. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy tender and delicious corn in minutes. So the next time you’re craving corn, give this microwave method a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed!