Boiled Corn On The Cob Recipe
Boiled corn on the cob is the perfect summer side dish—simple, delicious, and packed with natural sweetness. This recipe takes the classic up a notch by introducing sugar and lemon juice to the boiling water, subtly enhancing the flavors of the corn. The result? A vibrant and tender cob that’s both sweet and slightly tangy, making it a hit at any gathering. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you can transform corn into a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients Overview
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple with just three key ingredients: corn, sugar, and lemon juice. Each plays an important role in bringing out the best in the corn. Fresh ears of corn, with their husks and silk removed, provide the star ingredient—packed with natural sweetness and nutrients. The addition of white sugar adds a touch of extra sweetness, balancing any natural starchiness, while the lemon juice provides a hint of acidity, brightening the overall flavor. The combination of these ingredients elevates the corn, creating a satisfying side that complements a variety of main dishes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Start by filling a large pot with water, about three-quarters full, ensuring there’s enough room for the corn to be fully submerged. Bringing the water to a rolling boil is the key here, as it ensures the corn cooks evenly and efficiently. Once boiling, stir in the sugar and lemon juice until fully dissolved. This infusion in the water enhances the corn’s flavor while keeping the process simple and quick.
Carefully lower the corn into the pot, ensuring it’s completely covered by the water. After covering the pot with a lid, turn off the heat, letting the residual heat cook the corn. This gentle method allows the corn to cook without becoming overboiled, locking in both moisture and flavor. After about 10 minutes, the corn will be tender, juicy, and ready to serve.
Recipe Tips
Adjust the sweetness:
For those who prefer a sweeter bite, increase the sugar by an additional tablespoon.
Modify the tanginess:
If you enjoy a bolder citrus flavor, a second tablespoon of lemon juice will do the trick.
Enhance with butter:
For extra richness, stir a tablespoon of butter into the boiling water, or slather it onto the corn once it’s cooked.
Prepping the corn:
To remove the husks and silk with ease, soak the corn in water for a few minutes before peeling, or use a soft vegetable brush to remove any stubborn silk strands.
Don’t overcook:
Keeping the corn in hot water for more than 10 minutes can result in soggier, less vibrant corn.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Boiled corn on the cob pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Its natural sweetness and slight tanginess make it a versatile side that can elevate any meal.
Grilled meats like chicken, steak, or ribs make for a hearty pairing, with the corn providing a fresh and sweet contrast to the smoky, savory flavors.
For a lighter meal, serve the corn alongside a crisp garden salad or coleslaw to keep things fresh and summery.
If you’re hosting a barbecue, complement the corn with a variety of grilled vegetables and a dipping sauce like herb butter or garlic aioli.
Consider serving the corn with seafood, such as grilled shrimp or lobster, for a seaside-inspired feast that feels both casual and indulgent.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have any leftover corn, it’s easy to store and reheat without losing its flavor or texture. After cooking, allow the corn to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or wrapping each cob individually in plastic wrap. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
When reheating, avoid boiling the corn again, as this can make it mushy. Instead, use the microwave by wrapping each ear in a damp paper towel and heating for 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat the corn in the oven by wrapping it in aluminum foil and baking at 350°F for about 10 minutes, keeping the kernels tender and juicy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
Yes, frozen corn on the cob works well in this recipe. Simply follow the same instructions, though the cooking time may increase by a few minutes.
How long should I boil the corn if I like it softer or crunchier?
For softer corn, let it sit in the hot water for up to 12 minutes. For a crunchier texture, reduce the soaking time to about 7 minutes.
Can I add other ingredients like butter directly to the boiling water?
Absolutely! Adding butter to the boiling water will give the corn a richer flavor. You can also experiment with adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves for an extra layer of flavor.
Boiled corn on the cob is a simple, yet versatile dish that never fails to impress. Its delicate sweetness, heightened by a splash of lemon juice, makes it an excellent accompaniment to a variety of meals. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a summer barbecue, this recipe is a reliable go-to that delivers every time. Plus, with its easy preparation and minimal ingredients, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed any day of the week.
Ingredients
6 ears of corn, husks and silk removed
2 tablespoons white sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Begin by filling a large pot with water, making sure it’s about 3/4 full. Set the heat to high and bring the water to a rolling boil. Add the sugar and lemon juice, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved.
Carefully place the prepared corn into the boiling water. Cover the pot, then immediately turn off the heat. Let the corn soak in the hot water for around 10 minutes or until it reaches your desired tenderness.
Boiled Corn On The Cob Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 ears of corn husks and silk removed
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Begin by filling a large pot with water, making sure it’s about 3/4 full. Set the heat to high and bring the water to a rolling boil. Add the sugar and lemon juice, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Carefully place the prepared corn into the boiling water. Cover the pot, then immediately turn off the heat. Let the corn soak in the hot water for around 10 minutes or until it reaches your desired tenderness.