Mastering the Art of Grilling Corn in the Husk | Tips and Techniques

Grilling corn is one of the most popular barbecue staples, and for a good reason. The smoky, charred flavors that result from grilling give it an irresistible taste that you can’t get from boiling or steaming. However, perfecting the technique of grilling corn in the husk can be challenging, especially if you’re new to grilling. Many people struggle with unevenly cooked, tough, or burnt corn. In fact, according to a survey conducted by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA), cooking corn on the cob is one of the top ten grilling challenges among Americans. If you’re one of those who want to master the art of grilling corn in the husk, this post is for you. Here, we’ll share some tips and techniques to help you grill perfect corn every time.

Choosing the Right Corn

Buying Fresh Corn

When it comes to grilling corn in the husk, choosing the right ingredients is key to achieving the perfect flavor and texture. And when it comes to fresh corn, there’s no better place to look than your local farmers’ market.

Not only does shopping at a farmers’ market support small, local businesses, but it also ensures that you’re getting the freshest produce possible. Corn that has been picked just hours before grilling will have a sweeter, more vibrant flavor than corn that has been sitting on a grocery store shelf for days.

Another benefit of buying fresh corn at a farmers’ market is the ability to ask questions and get advice from the vendors themselves. Many farmers are happy to share information about their growing practices and can provide recommendations on the best way to prepare their particular variety of corn.

If you’re looking for an even higher level of quality and sustainability, consider seeking out organic corn at your local farmers’ market. Organic farmers use natural methods to grow their crops, avoiding harmful pesticides and fertilizers that can be damaging to the environment and potentially harmful to our health.

In short, buying fresh corn from a farmers’ market is a great way to ensure that you’re getting the best possible ingredient for your grilled corn in the husk. Not only are you supporting local businesses and reducing your environmental impact, but you’re also getting the most delicious and nutritious corn possible.

Identifying Ripe Corn

When it comes to grilling corn in the husk, choosing the right corn is key. In order to achieve that perfect balance of sweetness and texture, you need to know how to identify ripe corn. Here are some tips to help you select the best ears of corn for grilling.

Plump kernels are a good sign of a ripe ear of corn. When you feel the kernels with your fingers, they should be well-formed and slightly rounded. A plump kernel is a sign that the corn has had enough time to mature and develop its natural sugars.

Another indicator of ripe corn is bright green husks. Look for husks that are still tightly wrapped around the ear of corn. The leaves should be shiny and free of brown spots or discoloration. This is a sign that the corn is fresh and hasn’t been sitting on the shelf for too long.

Finally, check the brown silks at the top of the ear of corn. They should be dry and starting to turn brown. If the silks are still green, this means that the corn is not yet ripe. On the other hand, if the silks are completely brown and withered, the corn may be overripe and past its prime.

By following these simple tips for identifying ripe corn, you’ll be able to select the perfect ears for grilling. And when you take that first bite of juicy, smoky grilled corn, you’ll know that all your effort was worth it!

Preparing the Corn for Grilling

Soaking Corn

Soaking corn before grilling can help to keep it moist and flavorful. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in the taste and texture of your grilled corn. Here are some tips for soaking corn:

Use cold water: Fill a large container with cold water and add 1/4 cup of salt and 1/4 cup of sugar per gallon of water. Stir until the salt and sugar dissolve.
Remove the silk: Peel back the husks of the corn, but do not remove them completely. Remove the silk from each ear of corn by hand or with a soft brush.
Soak the corn: Place the ears of corn in the container of salted water and soak for 30 minutes. Make sure the corn is fully submerged. If necessary, weigh it down with a plate or bowl to keep it under the water.

The salt and sugar in the water help to enhance the natural sweetness of the corn and keep it moist during grilling. Soaking also helps to prevent the husks from burning on the grill.

After soaking, remove the corn from the water and shake off any excess. If desired, you can season the corn with olive oil, garlic, or other seasonings before grilling. With this simple soaking technique, you’ll be able to enjoy deliciously grilled corn in the husk every time.

Preheating the Grill

Before you begin grilling your corn, it’s important to preheat your grill properly. This will ensure that your corn cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the grates. Here are some essential tips for preheating your grill:

Medium-High Heat

The first step is to set your grill to medium-high heat, which is around 375-450°F depending on your grill. This temperature is perfect for cooking corn in the husk as it allows the corn to cook through without burning the husks.

Clean Grates

Next, you need to clean the grates thoroughly. Use a grill brush to remove any debris or leftover food from previous grilling sessions. You can also use a scraper to remove any stubborn bits of food that won’t come off.

Oil the Grates

After cleaning the grates, it’s time to oil them. This will prevent the corn from sticking to the grates and ensure that it has those coveted grill marks. To oil the grates, simply dip a folded paper towel in vegetable oil or olive oil, and rub it over the grates using tongs.

It’s important to note that you should not spray cooking spray directly onto the grates. The aerosolized oil can be flammable and can cause flare-ups.

By preheating your grill properly and following these simple steps, you can ensure that your grilled corn in the husk turns out perfectly every time.

Seasoning Options

When it comes to seasoning grilled corn in the husk, there are many options available. Here are three popular seasoning options that can take your grilled corn to the next level:

Olive oil and garlic: This classic combination adds a delicious Italian twist to your grilled corn. Simply brush the corn with olive oil, sprinkle some minced garlic, and grill as usual. The result is a savory and aromatic dish that is sure to impress your guests.
Butter and herbs: Butter and herbs are another classic flavor combination that can elevate your grilled corn. First, mix some softened butter with your favorite herbs – such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary – and a pinch of salt. Then, spread the butter mixture over the corn before grilling. As the corn cooks, the butter will melt into the kernels, infusing them with rich, flavorful goodness.
Lime and chili powder: For those who like a little kick of heat, this Mexican-inspired seasoning option is perfect. Start by brushing the corn with melted butter or olive oil. Then, sprinkle some chili powder and a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the corn. Grill until the corn is tender and slightly charred. The result is a sweet and spicy dish that will tantalize your taste buds.

These seasoning options are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to grilling corn in the husk. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and spices to find the perfect seasoning for you and your guests. With a little creativity and a lot of love, you can create grilled corn dishes that are truly unforgettable.

Grilling Techniques

Grill Temperature

One of the most crucial aspects of grilling corn in the husk is getting the grill temperature right. Your objective should be to create a medium-high heat that will cook the corn evenly without burning it.

What is Medium-high Heat?

Medium-high heat means setting your grill to about 375°F to 450°F. If you’re using charcoal, this means waiting until the coals are covered with white ash and the temperature gauge on your grill lid reads medium-high. For gas grills, adjust the burners so that they produce medium-high heat.

Indirect Heat

Another technique to ensure even cooking and prevent burning involves using indirect heat. This method involves setting up your grill so that the heat is not directly under the corn. Instead, place the corn husks on the cooler side of the grill and close the lid. This allows the corn to cook through without burning or charring.

Tips for Getting the Grill Temperature Right

To ensure the grill is at the right temperature, preheat it for at least 10 minutes before adding the corn. You can also use a meat thermometer to monitor the temperature. Place the thermometer on the grates where you’ll be cooking the corn and check the temperature. Adjust the heat up or down as needed.

By mastering the art of grill temperature and creating the perfect medium-high heat or indirect heat, you’ll be able to grill corn in the husk that is perfectly cooked every time!

Cooking Time

When it comes to grilling corn in the husk, timing is key. Overcooking can result in tough and dry kernels, while undercooking can leave you with raw and chewy corn. The recommended cooking time for grilling corn in the husk is between 15 to 20 minutes. However, this is just an estimate and can vary based on the size of the corn and the heat intensity of your grill.

To ensure that the corn is evenly cooked, it is important to flip the corn every 5 minutes during the cooking process. This will allow all sides of the corn to cook to perfection and prevent any burning or charring.

Another factor to consider when determining the cooking time is the method of grilling. If you are using direct heat, the cooking time may be shorter than if you are using indirect heat. Direct heat involves placing the corn directly over the flames, while indirect heat requires placing the corn on a cooler side of the grill.

It’s important to keep an eye on the corn as it cooks to avoid overcooking or burning. To check if the corn is ready, carefully peel back the husks and test the kernels by piercing them with a knife. If they are tender and juicy, then the corn is ready to be served.

Remember, grilling corn in the husk is all about patience and timing. With the right technique and a bit of practice, you can achieve perfectly grilled corn that is bursting with flavor and texture.

Turning the Corn

Once you have placed your corn on the grill, it is important to turn it regularly to ensure that it cooks evenly and doesn’t burn. There are several tools you can use to turn the corn, including tongs, oven mitts, and grilling baskets.

Tongs: Tongs are a popular choice for turning corn on the grill. They allow you to grip the ear of corn firmly and turn it without squishing or dropping it. When using tongs, be sure to hold them near the hinge end to maintain control. Turn the corn every 5 minutes, making sure to get all sides of the ear grilled evenly.

Oven Mitts: If you don’t have tongs, oven mitts are another option for handling hot ears of corn. Simply grasp the husk with the mitt and turn the corn as needed. While this method may not provide as much precision as tongs, it is a safe and effective way to handle the hot corn.

Grilling Basket: A grilling basket is another tool you can use to turn your corn. Grilling baskets come in various sizes and shapes, but they all work in a similar way. Place the corn in the basket and turn it over the grill. This method allows you to cook multiple ears at once and ensures that they are turned consistently.

No matter what tool you choose to turn your corn, be sure to exercise caution when handling hot objects. Use the appropriate temperature-resistant gloves or mitts, and always keep a close eye on your corn while it’s cooking. With these tips, you’ll be able to turn your corn like a pro and enjoy perfectly grilled ears every time!

Serving and Eating Grilled Corn

After spending time perfecting your grilled corn in the husk, it’s now time to serve and enjoy! Here are some tips on how to elevate your grilled corn experience:

Corn Holders

Corn holders come in various shapes and sizes, from classic pronged designs to novelty shapes. They make holding hot and buttery corn much easier, and also add a fun touch to your outdoor meal. If you don’t have corn holders, you can still enjoy your grilled corn by using tongs to hold the cob while you butter and season it.

Butter, Salt, and Pepper

Butter, salt, and pepper are classic toppings for grilled corn. For an extra kick of flavor, try mixing spices like cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika into your butter before spreading it onto the corn. You can also experiment with different types of salts, such as sea salt or flavored salts, to add a unique twist to your corn.

Other Toppings

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are endless possibilities when it comes to topping your grilled corn. Some popular options include crumbled cheese, fresh herbs like cilantro or basil, or even a drizzle of honey. Get creative and mix and match different toppings to find your favorite combination.

Grilled corn is a summer staple that everyone can enjoy. By using corn holders, adding flavorful toppings like butter, salt, and pepper, and experimenting with other toppings, you can take your grilled corn experience to the next level.
Grilling corn in the husk is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy this summer staple. By following these tips, you can take your corn on the cob game to the next level and impress your family and friends at your next barbecue. Remember to choose fresh and ripe corn, soak it before grilling, preheat your grill, and season it with your favorite flavors. Take your time flipping the corn and watch the kernels turn golden brown. Finally, don’t forget to serve it hot with butter, salt, and pepper. Now that you’ve mastered the art of grilling corn in the husk, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Happy grilling!