How to Choose Corn

Whether you grow your own or buy from the supermarket, choose husks that are completely green in color with light brown silk attached. Pull a piece of the husk down to inspect the corn. Kernels should be plump, firm, and full of color.

Use the “fingernail test” to ensure the corn is fresh: Press a fingernail into one of the kernels. If juice squirts out, this means the corn on the cob is fresh. If the kernels are discolored or dry then the corn is old and will not be the tastiest.

How to Store Corn

Corn on the cob begins to lose flavor the moment it is picked and should be cooked as soon as possible. If you need to store it, leave it in the husks and place in the refrigerator right away.

How to Clean Corn

The most effective way to shuck corn on the cob is to grab the bottom of the ear with one hand and grab a piece of the husk at the top in the other and pull it down. Do this with each piece of the husk until it is all pulled down to the stem. Then wrap your hand around the husk and pull it off the cob as you break the stem with it.

To easily remove the silk, wipe a dry hand over the cob from the top to the bottom several times. Then wet a clean paper towel and wipe it over the cob to remove the remainder of the silk.

How to Grill Corn

Keep corn in the husks but be sure to remove any excess silk or loose husk so that they don’t burn and ash. Fill a large bowl with water and completely submerse the corn. Soak for at least 15 minutes prior to cooking.

While corn is soaking, prepare the grill at medium heat. Remove corn from water and shake out any excess. Place corn on the grill and cover. Turn ears every 5 minutes to prevent charring.

The water the corn soaked in will steam the ears within the husks so don’t be alarmed if the outside turns brown or even catches on fire. Grill for 15-25 minutes, until husks are completely browned.

Use tongs to remove corn from grill. Use a dish towel to grasp one end of the corn and peel the silk and leaves down like a banana. It should all come off in one piece. Rinse corn under warm running water to remove any ash. Soak in garlic butter or other spices and enjoy!

How to Microwave Corn

Fill an extra large bowl with water and completely submerge ears of corn in water for at least 25 minutes before cooking. Remove corn from water and drain any excess water from the corn. Place corn on a microwave safe dish and place in the microwave. Cook on high for 7-10 minutes. Cooking time will vary according to the microwave. Allow corn to cool for 10 minutes before shucking or shuck in the sink under cool running water. Add butter, salt and pepper and serve.

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