Learn how to boil corn on the cob in this mini guide. Summer is the time when you see corn all around you simply because it’s grill season. Boiling corn on the cob is just one of the many ways you can cook corn either for your family or for a crowd. Curious as to how long to cook it and the various ways to enjoy it hello butter drizzle! Read along and find out all you need to know about this easy corn recipe.
Boiling Corn on the cob
The kind of corn I grew up eating is quite different from the corn in the United States. They are unsweetened corn on the cob just like the ones eaten in Mexico.
Boiled corn was usually served with a type of pear similar to avocados but much smaller with purple skin. I guess corn sure needs something buttery to go along with it. Boiled corn tastes amazing with the buttery African pear no wonder butter does wonders on corn
Why am I boiling corn instead of grilling?
I love boiled corn or cooked corn in all forms, grilled corn, air fryer corn or instant pot corn on the cob. I can’t seem to choose which is my best because they all taste amazing especially when topped with yummy seasonings and some melty butter and cheese.
Boiling is a great way to cook corn on the cob for a crowd. All you need is a large pot and about 15 minutes which includes the time it takes to bring the water to a boil and you are done. Not much of a time difference with IP corn on the cob, since the instant pot needs to come to pressure.
Tools needed to cook corn on the cob
If you are cooking corn on the cob on the stove top, the following tools will come in handy.
- A nice and durable stainless steel pot
- Kitchen tongs
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How to boil corn on the cob
This is an overview of the recipe with step by step photos. Full details of how to boil corn on the corn can be found in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page.
There are two ways to boil corn on the cob,
- With the husks removed (shucking corn) this method cooks faster
- With the husks in place.
How to shuck corn (removing the husks)
- Peel off the outer leaves from the ear of corn until one thin layer is left.
- Gradually peel back the last layer, the kernel will become visible.
- Pull back all the leaves till you get to the stalk, then break off the stalk with the bundled leaves attached.
- Run your hands around the shucked corn to remove the silk.
Pic 1-3; remove husks, leave corn ears whole or cut into two, wash them, then bring water to boil, add the corn.
Pic 4-6; cover pot, cook corn for 4-5 mins add extra one or two minutes if cooking without removing the husks. Turn off heat when corn is ready, remove corn and serve
Best Seasoning for Corn on the cob? (Corn on the cob Toppings)
Boiled Corn on the cob can be eaten as is or with any seasoning and topping of your choice. One of the most popular seasoning or condiments used for corn in the United States is salt and black pepper. Don’t skip the butter though it’s so so good.
For Mexican corn, you need Crema (a combination of mayonnaise and sour cream) and chili and some Cotija cheese for topping plus lime wedges. Don’t have Cojita cheese?, not to worry a good substitute for it is Parmesan cheese.
Other toppings include
- Parmesan Cheese
- Parsley flakes
- Cilantro
How to use and serve
Besides eating corn with toppings, corn kernels can be added to a variety of dishes which include:
Corn on the cob can be served with hot dogs like this instant pot hot dog recipe.
How to store
Boiled Corn on the cob can last up to 3-5days in the refrigerator if stored properly. Below are a few tips to ensure you store it properly.
- Let the cooked corn cool down completely before storage. Make sure it is refrigerated within an hour of cooking it.
- Store cooked corn in a shallow air tight container or wrap in an a plastic wrap before storage.
- You can also store in the freezer. To store in the freezer, it’s best to cut kernels off the cob and store in a freezer bag. When this method is used I prefer to use the kernels in salads.
Quick recipe notes and tips
- You can boil either shucked or non shucked corn. Be aware that it may take a minute or 2 longer to cook through when cooking corn in the husk.
- Bring water to boil before putting the corn in the water.
- Adding salt in the water is optional but I like to add some salt in the water. For Nigerian corn it’s best to add salt to the water because it has tougher kernels and may not take a sprinkle after cooking.
It takes approximately 15 minutes from start to finish
Did you enjoy this recipe or found it helpful, please leave me a comment and share the link to this recipe with family and friends and in your favorite facebook group.
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Boiled Corn on the Cob
Equipment
- Stainless steel pot
Ingredients
- 2 ears corn on the cob (shocked or un shucked. see notes.)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
- 4 cups water
To serve
- ½ tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Cut shucked corn into half, wash them. Add water to the pot and bring to a boilAdd the corn into the boiling water
- Cover pot and cook for 4 - 5 minutes.Turn off heat, Pick out cooked corn with Kitchen tongs transfer to a plate and serve
Notes
- Using salt while boiling the corn is optioinal but i recommend it.
- The calorie count includes the butter. Without it, it will be 132 calories
- Please refer to body of post for more tips
So… what do you think?