Craving delicious, juicy corn on the cob but short on time? Look no further than your microwave! Microwaving corn on the cob is a game-changer for busy cooks, delivering perfectly cooked kernels in minutes, without sacrificing flavor or texture. This method is not only incredibly quick and easy, but it also keeps the corn wonderfully moist and naturally sweet. Say goodbye to boiling pots and messy grills, and hello to the simplest way to enjoy fresh corn on the cob.
Why Microwaving Corn on the Cob is a Smart Choice
While traditional methods like boiling or grilling have their place, microwaving corn on the cob offers a range of unbeatable advantages that make it a go-to for many. Here’s why you should embrace the microwave for your next corn craving:
- Effortless and Easy: Seriously, it doesn’t get much easier than this. There’s virtually no prep work involved – just grab your corn and pop it in the microwave. No shucking, no soaking, no complicated steps.
- Lightning Fast: When time is of the essence, microwaving is your best friend. You can have perfectly cooked corn on the cob in just a few minutes, faster than any other cooking method.
- Juicy and Flavorful: Worried about dry corn? Don’t be! Microwaving corn in the husk creates a steaming effect, locking in the corn’s natural moisture and sweetness. The result is incredibly juicy and flavorful kernels every time.
- Healthy Cooking Method: Steaming vegetables is widely recognized as a healthy way to cook, preserving essential nutrients. Microwaving corn on the cob in its husk essentially steams it from the inside out, retaining its nutritional value and goodness.
- Minimal Cleanup: Forget about scrubbing pots or grill grates. Microwaving corn on the cob in the husk means minimal cleanup – you’re essentially cooking and steaming the corn in its own natural wrapper.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Microwave Corn on the Cob in Husk
Ready to enjoy perfectly microwaved corn on the cob? Follow these simple steps for delicious results every time:
Ingredients:
- Fresh corn on the cob, in the husk (1 to 4 ears recommended for best results)
Equipment:
- Microwave
- Microwave-safe plate (optional)
- Tongs or oven mitts
- Knife
- Cutting board
Instructions:
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Prepare the Corn: No need to remove the husk or silk at this stage! Simply place the corn on the cob, husk and all, directly into your microwave. You can place it on a microwave-safe plate for easy handling, but it’s not strictly necessary.
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Microwave to Perfection: Cooking time will vary slightly depending on the number of ears you are cooking and the wattage of your microwave. Here’s a general guideline for microwaving corn on the cob in husk:
- For 1 ear of corn: Microwave on high power for 3 minutes. For larger ears, you might need to add another minute.
- For 2 ears of corn: Microwave on high power for 5 ½ to 6 minutes.
- For 3 to 4 ears of corn: Add approximately 2 minutes of cooking time for each additional ear. For 3 ears, microwave for about 8 minutes; for 4 ears, microwave for about 10 minutes.
Chef’s Tip: Microwave wattages vary, and corn size can differ. It’s always best to start with the minimum cooking time and check for doneness. You can gently peel back a small section of the husk to test the kernels with a fork – they should be tender and easily pierced. If needed, continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until the corn reaches your desired tenderness. For extra assurance, the internal temperature of cooked corn should reach 160-170°F (71-77°C).
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Remove and Shuck Safely: Once microwaving is complete, carefully remove the corn from the microwave using tongs or oven mitts, as it will be hot. Place the corn on a cutting board. Using a knife, cut off the stalk end of the corn, about ½ inch from the bottom. This makes removing the husk and silk much easier.
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Enjoy! Grasp the top of the husk and simply slide the corn cob out. The husk and silk should come away effortlessly, leaving you with perfectly cooked, steaming hot corn on the cob ready to be enjoyed.
Microwaving Corn on the Cob Without the Husk
What if you’ve already shucked your corn? Don’t worry, you can still microwave it! You’ll just need to create a similar steaming environment that the husk provides. Here’s how:
- Wrap in Damp Paper Towels: Lightly dampen a couple of sheets of paper towel and wrap them securely around the shucked ear of corn. Ensure the corn is fully enclosed in the damp paper towels.
- Microwave as Directed: Follow the same microwaving times as for corn in the husk (refer to the timings above).
- Handle with Care: Be extra cautious when removing the corn from the microwave, as the damp paper towels will be very hot and steamy.
The paper towels will trap moisture and steam the corn, resulting in juicy and tender kernels, similar to cooking it in the husk.
Delicious Serving Suggestions for Microwaved Corn on the Cob
Microwaved corn on the cob is fantastic on its own with just a pat of butter, salt, and pepper. But for extra flavor and flair, try these delicious serving suggestions:
- Flavored Butters: Elevate your corn with herb butter, garlic butter, or even chili lime butter. Mix softened butter with your favorite herbs, spices, or flavorings and slather it on the hot corn.
- Spice it Up: Sprinkle your corn with paprika, chili powder, red pepper flakes, or Tajin seasoning for a zesty kick.
- Cheesy Goodness: Grate some Parmesan cheese, cotija cheese, or your favorite cheese over the hot corn for a savory and melty topping.
- Summer Side Dish Star: Serve microwaved corn on the cob as a perfect side dish at barbecues, picnics, or alongside grilled burgers, chicken, steak, or vegetarian options like grilled tofu.
- Corn Kernel Creations: Remove the kernels from the cob and add them to salads, salsas, soups, or corn fritters for versatile culinary creations.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Make-Ahead and Storage: If you have leftover microwaved corn on the cob, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-5 days.
Freezing for Later: For longer storage, you can freeze microwaved corn on the cob. Flash freeze the cobs individually on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen corn on the cob will last for 4-6 months.
Reheating Made Easy: To reheat, wrap the corn on the cob in a damp paper towel and microwave in 20-second intervals until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it by placing it in hot water with a lid for a few minutes.
Enjoy Quick and Easy Microwaved Corn on the Cob!
Microwaving corn on the cob is a total game-changer for quick, easy, and delicious corn any time you crave it. Give this method a try and discover just how simple it is to enjoy perfectly cooked, juicy corn on the cob in minutes. You’ll be amazed at the results and wonder why you weren’t microwaving corn all along! Let us know how your microwaved corn turns out in the comments below!
