To boil corn on the cob, the typical cooking time ranges from about 3 to 10 minutes depending on the method and desired tenderness:
- A common quick method is to bring water to a rolling boil, add shucked corn, and boil uncovered for about 3 to 5 minutes until the kernels are tender and bright yellow
. This is often enough to achieve crisp-tender corn.
- Another popular technique is to bring water to a boil, add the corn, cover the pot, then turn off the heat and let the corn sit in the hot water for about 10 minutes. This method keeps the corn tender and sweet without overcooking
- Some recipes suggest boiling the corn for 10 to 15 minutes if you prefer softer kernels, but boiling too long can make corn tough and less flavorful
- If boiling multiple ears, cook in batches or ensure the pot is large enough so the water circulates well, and adjust cooking time slightly longer if needed
In summary, for the best balance of tenderness and sweetness, boil corn on the cob for 3 to 5 minutes uncovered or use the "boil then turn off heat and cover" method for about 10 minutes
