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Grill Master’s Guide: How Long to Cook Corn on the Cob on the Grill for Perfect Results

Summer is synonymous with grilling, and nothing screams summer quite like perfectly grilled corn on the cob. The smoky char, the sweet kernels bursting with flavor – it’s a simple pleasure that elevates any barbecue. But mastering the art of grilling corn requires knowing exactly how long to cook corn on the cob on the grill. Too short, and you’re left with hard, undercooked kernels. Too long, and you end up with dry, shriveled corn. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to achieve grilling perfection every time.

Why Grill Corn on the Cob?

Before diving into the specifics of how long to cook corn on the cob on the grill, let’s explore why grilling is such a fantastic cooking method for this summer staple. Grilling imparts a unique smoky flavor that you simply can’t achieve with boiling or steaming. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the corn, creating a delightful sweetness and a slightly charred exterior that adds texture and visual appeal. Plus, grilling is a great way to keep the heat outdoors during those hot summer months.

Different Grilling Methods for Corn on the Cob

There are primarily two ways to grill corn on the cob: in the husk and without the husk. Each method offers distinct advantages and slightly different cooking times.

Grilling Corn in the Husk

Grilling corn in the husk is a great way to keep the corn moist and prevent it from drying out. The husk acts as a natural steamer, infusing the corn with its own moisture and creating a tender, juicy result. Here’s how long to cook corn on the cob on the grill using this method:

Soak the corn: Submerge the unhusked corn in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents the husks from burning on the grill.
Prepare the grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C).
Grill the corn: Place the soaked corn directly on the grill grates.
Cook time: Grill for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the husks are lightly charred and the corn is cooked through. You can check for doneness by carefully peeling back the husk and piercing a kernel with a fork.

Grilling Corn Without the Husk

Grilling corn without the husk results in a more pronounced smoky flavor and a slightly charred exterior. However, it’s essential to monitor the corn closely to prevent it from drying out. The question of how long to cook corn on the cob on the grill is slightly different with this method:

Prepare the corn: Remove the husks and silk from the corn. You can lightly brush the corn with oil or butter for added flavor and to prevent sticking.
Prepare the grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C).
Grill the corn: Place the corn directly on the grill grates.
Cook time: Grill for 7-10 minutes, turning frequently, until the kernels are tender and lightly charred.

Detailed Guide: How Long To Cook Corn on the Cob on the Grill

Let’s break down the cooking times and techniques in more detail to ensure you get perfect results every time you grill corn on the cob.

Factors Affecting Cooking Time

Several factors can influence how long to cook corn on the cob on the grill. These include:

Grill Temperature: The hotter your grill, the faster the corn will cook. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Freshness of the Corn: Fresher corn tends to cook faster and retain more moisture.
Size of the Corn: Larger ears of corn will require slightly longer cooking times.
Desired Level of Char: If you prefer a more charred exterior, you may want to grill the corn for a slightly longer period.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Grilling Corn in the Husk

Soaking the Corn: This is a crucial step. Soaking the corn for at least 30 minutes ensures that the husks don’t burn and helps to steam the corn from the inside. For best results, soak the corn for up to 2 hours.
Preparing the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed.
Grilling the Corn: Place the soaked corn directly on the grill grates. Close the grill lid to maintain a consistent temperature.
Turning the Corn: Turn the corn every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. This prevents one side from burning while the other remains undercooked.
Checking for Doneness: After 15-20 minutes, carefully peel back the husk and pierce a kernel with a fork. The corn should be tender and juicy. If it’s still hard, continue grilling for a few more minutes.
Serving: Once cooked, carefully remove the corn from the grill. Peel back the husks completely and remove the silk. Serve with butter, salt, pepper, and any other desired toppings.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Grilling Corn Without the Husk

Preparing the Corn: Remove the husks and silk from the corn. Ensure that all the silk is removed to prevent it from burning on the grill.
Oiling the Corn (Optional): Lightly brush the corn with oil or melted butter. This helps to prevent sticking and adds flavor.
Preparing the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat.
Grilling the Corn: Place the corn directly on the grill grates.
Turning the Corn: Turn the corn frequently, every 2-3 minutes, to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
Checking for Doneness: After 7-10 minutes, the kernels should be tender and lightly charred. You can check for doneness by piercing a kernel with a fork.
Serving: Remove the corn from the grill and serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Tips for Grilling Perfect Corn on the Cob

Here are some additional tips to help you achieve grilling perfection:

Choose Fresh Corn: Look for corn with bright green husks and plump, milky kernels. Avoid corn with dry or yellowing husks.
Don’t Overcook: Overcooked corn can become dry and shriveled. Keep a close eye on the corn and remove it from the grill as soon as it’s cooked through.
Experiment with Flavors: Before grilling, try rubbing the corn with different spices or herbs. Chili powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika are all great options.
Use a Grill Basket: If you’re concerned about the corn falling through the grill grates, use a grill basket.
Keep it Warm: If you’re not serving the corn immediately, wrap it in foil to keep it warm.

Troubleshooting Common Grilling Problems

Even with the best instructions, grilling can sometimes present challenges. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:

Corn is Burning: If the corn is burning, reduce the heat of your grill or move the corn to a cooler part of the grill.
Corn is Drying Out: If the corn is drying out, try grilling it in the husk or brushing it with oil or butter more frequently.
Corn is Undercooked: If the corn is undercooked, continue grilling it for a few more minutes, turning frequently.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled corn on the cob is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are some serving suggestions:

Classic Butter and Salt: The simplest and most classic way to enjoy grilled corn.
Chili Lime Corn: Brush the corn with melted butter and sprinkle with chili powder, lime juice, and cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Coat the corn with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. [See also: Best Elote Recipes]
Garlic Parmesan Corn: Brush the corn with garlic butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion

Knowing how long to cook corn on the cob on the grill is essential for creating a delicious and memorable summer meal. Whether you prefer grilling in the husk or without, following these guidelines will help you achieve perfect results every time. So fire up your grill, grab some fresh corn, and get ready to enjoy the taste of summer! Happy grilling!