Cooking Corn on the Cob

Cooking corn on the cob can take awhile if you are waiting for the water to boil.  I use different methods depending on how much time I have and whether I'm going to be using the grill.  I've even come up with a new make-ahead method which is featured below.  Pick whatever method works for you, and I'd love for you to add to the comment section below which method you prefer for cooking corn on the cob!

Make Ahead Method

To make corn on the cob ahead of time, just boil shucked corn for 5-6 minutes, drain well, place on a piece of aluminum foil with butter and salt, wrap up and place in a slow cooker for 2-4 hours.  It does taste best if eaten within 2-3 hours.  I've used this method when cooking corn for company and I've found it to be really useful for when I'm going to be gone from home for one of my kid's games and want to serve dinner as soon as we get home.  As you can see from the photo below, when you unwrap the corn, it's still crisp, hot, and buttery!

Boiling Method

Place the shucked corn in a large pot and cover with water.  Some people like to add a bit of sugar, you can if you prefer.  Bring the water to a boil and cook for 6-8 minutes depending on how thick the ears are. 

Un-Boiling Method

This is a method I prefer if I'm going to cook corn on the stove.  Bring a large pot, which has been filled 2/3 of the way with water, to a boil.  Once it boils, then carefully add the corn.  Tongs work well for this so you don't get sloshed.  Bring the water back to a boil and then shut the heat off.  You can either eat the corn right away or leave it in the water for 10 minutes or so or until you are ready to serve.

Grilling Method

You can do this as easily as placing the corn, with the husks on directly on the grill, and cook for 15-20 minutes while turning occasionally.  If I have time, I like to soak the corn, that still has the husks on, for 1-2 hours in ice water.  Then drain well before placing the corn on the grill

You can also shuck the corn, wrap it in foil (with a little butter and salt) and grill for about 12 minutes

Microwave Method

Place a moistened paper towel around each cob, which has been shucked, and microwave on high for 2 minutes per cob.  I usually don't cook more than four ears at a time using this method.

How do you cook your corn?  Please share in the comment section below!