Grilled corn on the cob bursts with sweet-and-savory flavor and takes just 5 minutes or less. Learn how to grill corn so it’s perfectly charred with our three easy methods, no grill necessary!
Grilled corn on the cob was one of my go-to summer snacks growing up in Egypt. Some street vendors specialized in the crispiest, fluffiest falafel. Others sold ice-cold hibiscus tea on a sweltering day. Some set up right on the boardwalk by the beach and grilled fresh, raw corn directly over open flames – no fancy grills required.
At home, my family just threw the corn directly on the gas burner! Easiest thing ever. This grilled corn recipe shows exactly how my family did it, depending on our mood. Each method boasts that delicious BBQ flavor that we loved so much about those beachside vendors.
This grilled corn on the cob recipe cooks the corn without its husk. I find that grilling corn with the husk prevents it from getting nice and charred. And for the same reason, I do not cover my corn in foil. I also love to keep the corn’s natural sweetness, so I don’t dull the flavor by boiling it first.
You only need one thing to make this grilled corn on the cob: corn! You can dress it up how you like from there. I like Aleppo pepper and lime. Aioli, cheese like parmesan or feta, extra virgin olive oil, flaky salt, and black pepper or chili flakes are also great options. Heres what I use for this recipe:
Shucking the corn before grilling imparts smoky, charred flavor to the kernels, which you don’t get from grilling corn in the husk. Grilling your corn naked also helps it cook faster.
How to Grill Corn
There are two methods I like to make the sweetest, most perfectly charred grilled corn on the cob.
Tips for Buying the Best Corn
Learning how to grill corn on the cob starts with the perfect ear of corn. Keep these tips in mind to select the freshest corn on the cob at the market:
- Bright green husks: The freshest corn has bright green husks that feel slightly damp – not yellow or dry.
- No holes: If you see any small brown holes, thats a sign of insects and should be avoided.
- Firm throughout: When you gently squeeze the corn, it should be firm throughout the entire cob. There should be no soft softs or parts that clearly do not have corn kernels.
- Light brown or gold top: The tassel (the corn silk peeking out at the top) should be light brown or gold and slightly sticky and smell sweet. If the tassel is dry, black, or mushy, choose a different piece of corn.
Storage: Store corn on the cob at room temperature if youll be cooking it the next day, or in the crisper of your fridge for up to 5 days.
Are you supposed to boil corn before grilling?
FAQ
Do you have to remove the silk from corn before grilling?
Do you shuck corn before cooking?
Should you shuck corn right away?
Should you shuck corn before grilling?
Shucking the corn before grilling imparts smoky, charred flavor to the kernels, which you don’t get from grilling corn in the husk. Grilling your corn naked also helps it cook faster. I’ve had three great corn epiphanies in my life.
Is corn a healthy food?
The main source of green corn is carbohydrate, which is slowly absorbed into the bloodstream and prevents blood sugar spikes. Another benefit is the presence of fibers, which contribute to intestinal health and promote the feeling of satiety. And I can’t stop talking about Vitamins and minerals, vitamin A and complex B, which contributes to good mood and the nervous system. Among the minerals, we have magnesium, potassium, iron and copper.
Should you soak unhusked corn before grilling?
The thinking behind soaking unhusked corn before grilling is that it will prevent the husks from burning. In our tests, we found that even after ten minutes in water, the corn’s husk still charred up and tasted nearly identical to the previous test. As soon as Anna and I bit into this last method, we knew we were onto something.
Should you cook corn naked before grilling?
Each method of grilling corn has its advantages and drawbacks. Here’s the full breakdown. Shucking the corn before grilling imparts smoky, charred flavor to the kernels, which you don’t get from grilling corn in the husk. Grilling your corn naked also helps it cook faster.