To cook corn on the cob by boiling, follow these steps for tender, juicy results:
- Prepare the Corn: Remove the green husks and silk strands from each ear of corn. Rinse the corn if desired to remove any remaining silk
- Boil Water: Fill a large pot with enough water to fully submerge the corn (about 5-6 inches deep). Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Optionally, add a pinch of salt to the water
- Cook the Corn: Carefully add the shucked corn to the boiling water. Boil the corn uncovered for about 3 to 5 minutes until the kernels are tender and bright yellow. Avoid overcooking to keep the corn crisp and sweet. If cooking multiple batches, keep cooked corn warm by covering it with foil
- Drain and Serve: Remove the corn from the water with tongs and serve immediately. Common toppings include butter, salt, and pepper, but you can also try parmesan, chili powder, lime, or flavored butters
Alternative boiling methods include:
- Adding sugar and lemon juice to the water and cooking corn covered with the heat turned off for about 10 minutes for extra sweetness
- Starting with cold water and bringing it to a near boil before removing the corn to preserve flavor and texture
Other popular cooking methods for corn on the cob include grilling, microwaving, and pressure cooking, each offering different textures and flavors
. In summary, boiling corn on the cob typically takes 3 to 5 minutes in boiling water after husking, yielding sweet, tender corn ready to enjoy with your favorite seasonings
