Having fresh corn on the cob is one of the simple pleasures of summer. There’s something about sinking your teeth into those juicy kernels that brings back memories of backyard barbecues and family gatherings. But what if you don’t have access to a grill or a stove? Can you still enjoy delicious corn on the cob? The answer is yes, and I’m going to show you how to microwave corn in the shuck – a quick and easy method that will have you enjoying perfectly cooked corn in no time.
Gather Your Ingredients and Tools
Before we dive into the process, let’s make sure we have everything we need. Here’s a quick checklist of what you’ll need to microwave corn in the shuck:
– Fresh ears of corn
– Microwave-safe plate or dish
– Sharp knife
– Kitchen towel or potholder
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Microwave Corn in the Shuck
Now that we have everything we need, let’s get started on microwaving our corn in the shuck. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have perfectly cooked corn in just minutes.
Step 1: Prep the Corn
Take each ear of corn and remove any loose or dry husks. Make sure to leave the innermost layers intact, as they will help keep the corn moist during cooking. Once you’ve removed any excess husks, use a sharp knife to trim the silk at the top of the corn, leaving about half an inch exposed.
Step 2: Prepare the Microwave
Place a damp kitchen towel or potholder on a microwave-safe plate or dish. This will help protect your plate from getting too hot and also prevent the corn from sticking to the plate during cooking.
Step 3: Arrange the Corn
Lay the prepared ears of corn on the damp towel or potholder. Make sure they are evenly spaced and not touching each other. This will ensure that each ear of corn cooks evenly.
Step 4: Microwave the Corn
Place the plate with the corn into the microwave and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or vented plastic wrap. This will help trap the steam and speed up the cooking process. Set your microwave to high power and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per ear of corn. Remember, microwaves vary in power, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Step 5: Let the Corn Rest
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the plate from the microwave using a kitchen towel or potholder. Be cautious as the plate may be hot. Let the corn rest for a few minutes. This will allow the kernels to continue cooking and also make it easier to handle.
Step 6: Shuck the Corn
Now comes the fun part – shucking the corn. With a firm grip on the top of the corn, hold it vertically and gently squeeze and twist the bottom until the husk and silk loosen. Slowly peel back the husk, working your way down to the bottom. The corn should easily slide out, leaving behind any remaining silk.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Place your freshly shucked corn on a serving plate and season to taste with butter, salt, and pepper. You can enjoy it as is or add your favorite seasonings, such as chili powder, herbs, or grated cheese. Get creative and try different flavor combinations to suit your taste buds.
Microwaving corn in the shuck is a quick and easy method that produces deliciously tender and flavorful corn on the cob. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy this summertime favorite any time of the year, even if you don’t have access to a grill or stove. So go ahead, give it a try, and savor the taste of fresh corn on the cob without all the fuss. Happy microwaving!