Introduction
Grilling corn in the husk can be a challenge for many grill enthusiasts. It’s easy to overcook or undercook it, resulting in tough or mushy corn. In this article, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to grill corn in the husk and avoid common pitfalls. Our aim is to give you all the tools and knowledge to produce perfect grilled corn every time.
Why Grill Corn in the Husk?
Grilling corn in the husk is a versatile and flavorful way to cook this summertime staple. The husk provides a natural barrier that allows the corn to steam, resulting in a crispy outer layer with tender and juicy kernels inside. By grilling corn in the husk, you also infuse it with a smoky, campfire flavor that elevates the overall taste profile of the dish.
Another benefit of grilling corn in the husk is it’s easy to season. You can apply spices and seasoning on the corn and then wrap them in the husk before grilling. The result is perfectly seasoned corn without any spices falling through the grill grates.
Prep Work
Selecting the right corn is important. Look for fresh, sweet corn with bright green husks that fit tightly around the ear. Avoid husks that are brown, dry, or have noticeable damage.
Before grilling corn in the husk, it’s important to soak the corn in cold water for at least 15-20 minutes. This will help steam the corn and prevent it from drying out or burning during the grilling process.
Techniques for Grilling Corn in the Husk
One popular technique when grilling corn in the husk is to grill it over direct heat. This is done by tossing the corn directly onto hot grill grates. Cook the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the husk is charred and some kernels are browned.
If you prefer to use indirect heat, wrap the corn in aluminum foil and grill it indirectly for approximately 20-25 minutes. This technique will help steam the corn, producing a softer texture.
To grill corn in the husk without foil, first, remove the excess silk from the corn husks. Pull the husks back up to enclose the ear of corn. Tie the top of the husk with a string or a strip of corn husk to secure them in place. Place the tied corn directly on the grill grates over medium-high heat and grill for 10-12 minutes or until the husks are charred and the corn is tender.
How to Tell When It’s Done
One way to know if the corn is done is to feel the kernels through the husk. If the kernels feel plump and tender, it’s ready. Another way is to peel back a small section of the husk and pierce a kernel with a fork. If there is no resistance, it’s ready.
Be sure not to overcook the corn. Overcooking can make the corn mushy, and you can lose the sweet corn’s flavor.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Grilled corn in the husk tastes delicious on its own, but it’s also a great addition to salads, salsas, tacos, and more. Serve it with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of salt or go bold with creative toppings like chili powder or cotija cheese.
You can also pair grilled corn with a variety of herbs, spices, and sauces, like cilantro, lime, or chipotle mayo. It’s also perfect for pairing with fajitas, steak, or another grilled protein.
Troubleshooting
One common issue when grilling corn in the husk is overcooking or undercooking it. To avoid this, always keep an eye on the grill and check the corn’s doneness regularly. If unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of undercooking rather than overcooking.
If the husks catch fire while grilling corn, don’t worry. Simply move the corn to a cooler part of the grill or use a spray bottle of water to extinguish the flames.
Expert Tips
For additional tips, we asked grill experts for their best advice. One tip we got from the experts is to grill corn in the husk over wood or charcoal, which provides a more authentic smoky flavor than gas grilling.
Another expert tip is to add a chili lime butter to the grilled corn. Mix a stick of softened butter with fresh lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture onto the grilled corn in the husk.
Conclusion
Grilling corn in the husk is a simple and flavorful way to cook sweet summer corn. By following our step-by-step guide, you will create perfectly cooked, juicy, and tasty corn every time.
