Few issues are extra synonymous with summertime than sinking your enamel into a aromatic, steaming corn on the cob, recent off the grill. And whereas some purists declare corn wants completely no additions, I urge to vary. Refined enhancements can take a great corn on the cob and switch it right into a deal with you may’t bear to place down. Right here’s all the pieces it’s good to know on methods to make this seasonal staple higher than ever:
Technique Issues: Earlier than we dive into the accoutrements, let’s take a fast take a look at corn-cooking 101. There about as many strategies to cooking corn as there are forms of the stuff (and there are literally thousands of hybridized corn varieties, in case you have been questioning!). However maybe the most important mistake individuals make when cooking a cob is eradicating the husk and silk previous to cooking. When left intact, this messy exterior really acts as a pure steam bag for the kernels inside, serving to them to prepare dinner quicker whereas retaining moisture on the similar time. In the event you’re cooking corn indoors, warmth up the oven to 350° F, and roast your un-shucked corn on a baking sheet for about 30-40 minutes, with the shorter cooking time reserved for the smallest cobs. In the event you’re grilling outdoors, soak the un-shucked corn in a water tub 10 minutes previous to placing onto the grill (so the husks don’t expend), and grill for about quarter-hour, turning a couple of occasions to char on all sides. Both means, if you peel away the husk, you’ll discover the mess related to shucking corn is now nearly non-existent … and also you’ll have a built-in “deal with” on the finish of the stalk to hold onto whereas having fun with the bounty of your efforts as effectively.
Higher Than Butter: Cooking apart, it’s actually the quick window after the corn has cooked the place the true culinary magic takes place. Arms down, my primary go-to addition to corn shouldn’t be butter … it’s coconut oil. In the event you haven’t tried coconut oil on corn earlier than, put together to attempt to muffle your cries of pleasure. This dairy-free, absolutely pure, and nutritionally-beneficial ingredient melts like butter however presents a richer, nearly creamy taste that completely balances the starchy sweetness of corn. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on high, and chances are you’ll simply discover your life full within the second of that first mouthful.
Spice It Up: After all, upon getting your epic corn and coconut oil base, you may actually get inventive. Coconut oil will assist your favourite spices and backyard herbs stick with the kernels, which provides visible magnificence and flavorful aptitude to this straightforward recipe. A traditional “avenue corn” is normally sprinkled with chili powder, sea salt, cilantro, and lime, and typically with quite a lot of creamy sauce or cheese. For a more healthy model, use coconut oil rather than the cream sauce, and grated nuts like macadamia or small seeds like hemp or chia rather than the cheese. Different complimentary spices you possibly can use embody cumin, cayenne, coriander, or garlic powder, and nearly any form of recent backyard herb, from chives to parsley, is a welcome addition.
Kernel Completely happy: Corn definitely doesn’t have to remain on the cob! You’ll be able to create a crowd-pleasing salad in simply minutes. After you’ve roasted your corn, minimize off the kernels as soon as the corn is cool sufficient to deal with. Heat some coconut oil in a sauté pan, and add some minced shallots or onion, in addition to any form of summer time vegetable, comparable to bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, or tomatoes. Plant-based proteins like cooked quinoa or beans additionally make nice companions. Add the corn final, simply to sauté briefly and heat, and season with any of the afore-mentioned spices or herbs together with salt to style. Bonus factors for a drizzle of citrusy lime juice proper on the finish, and serve up some summer time in a bowl. Remaining be aware: At all times select natural corn to keep away from GMO’s!
