How Long to Grill Corn on the Cob: A Comprehensive Guide to Perfectly Grilled Sweet Corn

Grilling corn on the cob is a summertime staple, transforming this already delicious vegetable into a smoky, slightly charred treat. But achieving that perfect balance of tender kernels and slightly blackened sweetness requires understanding the nuances of grilling time and technique. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from selecting the right corn to achieving the ideal grilling time, ensuring your next corn-on-the-cob feast is a resounding success.

Choosing the Perfect Corn

The foundation of great grilled corn is starting with high-quality ingredients. Look for corn that is in season – typically summer – as this will yield the sweetest, most flavorful results. Here’s what to look for:

• Freshness: Choose ears with tight, green husks. The silks should be moist and slightly sticky, indicating freshness.
• Weight: Heavier ears generally indicate more kernels and a greater yield.
• Kernel plumpness: Gently press a kernel. If it’s plump and juicy, you’ve found a winner.
• Avoid damaged husks: Steer clear of ears with torn or dried-out husks, as these could indicate stale corn.

Preparing Your Corn for Grilling

Proper preparation is crucial for even grilling and preventing burning. While many recipes call for removing the husks, leaving them on offers several advantages. The husks act as a natural insulator, preventing burning and providing even cooking.

Method 1: Grilling in the Husk

1. Clean the corn: Remove any loose silks from the top of the ear.
2. Soak the corn (optional): Soaking the corn in water for 15-20 minutes before grilling helps prevent burning and adds moisture.
3. Grill directly in the husks: Place the ears directly on the grill grates.

Method 2: Grilling Without the Husk

1. Remove the husks and silks: Carefully peel back the husks and remove the silks.
2. Soak the corn (optional): Soaking is recommended, even more so when grilling without the husks, to avoid drying out.
3. Wrap in foil (optional): To prevent sticking and maintain moisture, you can wrap the corn in foil before grilling. This method is also good for adding flavors such as butter, herbs, or spices.
4. Grill directly on the grates: Place the corn directly on the grill grates, or on a grill basket.

How Long to Grill Corn: A Guide Based on Method

The grilling time depends largely on your preferred level of char and the method you choose. Here’s a breakdown:

Grilling in the Husk:

Grilling in the husk generally requires a longer cooking time due to the insulating effect of the husks. Expect to grill for 20-25 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking. The corn is done when the kernels are tender and the husks are slightly charred.

Grilling Without the Husk:

Without the husks, the corn cooks faster. Grilling without the husks generally takes 15-20 minutes, turning every 3-5 minutes. The cooking time will also depend on the intensity of your grill’s heat. Monitor the corn closely to avoid burning.

Grilling in Foil:

Wrapping the corn in foil helps retain moisture and can slightly extend the cooking time. Expect to grill for about 18-22 minutes, turning halfway through. The foil will help to prevent sticking and burning.

Determining Doneness

The key to perfectly grilled corn is knowing when it’s done. Here are some indicators:

• Kernel tenderness: The kernels should be easily pierced with a fork and tender to the bite.
• Slight charring: A little charring on the kernels adds a smoky flavor and appealing visual appeal.
• Husks (if applicable): If grilling in the husk, the husks should be slightly charred and dry.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Corn

• Use medium heat: High heat can lead to burning before the kernels are cooked through. Medium heat is ideal for even cooking.
• Oil the corn (optional): Lightly oiling the corn before grilling helps prevent sticking and adds a subtle flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill: Overcrowding prevents even cooking and lowers the temperature of the grill.
• Experiment with flavors: Add herbs, spices, or butter to the corn for extra flavor. Try chili powder, lime juice, parmesan cheese, or even a simple herb butter.
• Serve immediately: Grilled corn is best served immediately after grilling for the best flavor and texture.

Troubleshooting Common Grilling Problems

Corn is burning too quickly:

Reduce the heat on your grill, increase the distance from the heat source, or move the corn to a cooler part of the grill. Soaking the corn beforehand is crucial to avoid this.

Corn is not cooking evenly:

Ensure the grill grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking. Turn the corn frequently to ensure even cooking on all sides. Consider using a grill basket for easier turning and better control.

Corn is too dry:

Soaking the corn before grilling is highly recommended, especially when grilling without the husks. Wrapping the corn in foil during grilling will also help retain moisture.

By following these tips and techniques, you can confidently grill delicious, perfectly cooked corn on the cob every time. Enjoy your summer BBQs!