Grilling corn on the BBQ in the husk is a popular summer activity that brings people together and creates lasting memories. The smoky flavor and slightly charred texture of grilled corn are unmatched, and when cooked in the husk, it adds an extra layer of moisture and tenderness to the corn. However, the cooking time for corn on the BBQ in the husk can vary depending on several factors, including the type of corn, the heat of the grill, and the level of doneness desired. In this article, we will delve into the world of grilling corn on the BBQ in the husk, exploring the best techniques, cooking times, and tips for achieving perfect, mouth-watering results.
Understanding the Basics of Grilling Corn in the Husk
Grilling corn in the husk is a simple yet effective way to cook corn, and it requires minimal equipment and preparation. The husk acts as a natural steamer, trapping the moisture and heat around the corn, which helps to cook it evenly and prevent it from drying out. To grill corn in the husk, you will need to preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is typically between 375°F and 425°F. While the grill is heating up, you can prepare the corn by removing any excess silk and twisting the husk to create a tight seal around the corn.
Choosing the Right Type of Corn
The type of corn you use can significantly impact the cooking time and flavor of your grilled corn. There are several varieties of corn to choose from, including sweet corn, yellow corn, white corn, and bi-colored corn. Sweet corn is the most popular variety for grilling, as it has a naturally sweet flavor and a soft, tender texture. When selecting corn, look for ears with a slightly damp husk and a few loose kernels, as these are signs of freshness and quality.
Preparing the Corn for Grilling
Before grilling the corn, you will need to soak the ears in water for at least 30 minutes to help keep them moist and prevent the husk from burning. You can also add flavorings such as butter, salt, and pepper to the water for extra flavor. After soaking, remove the corn from the water and shake off any excess moisture before placing it on the grill.
Cooking Time for Corn on the BBQ in the Husk
The cooking time for corn on the BBQ in the husk can vary depending on the heat of the grill and the level of doneness desired. As a general rule, corn on the BBQ in the husk will take between 15 and 25 minutes to cook, turning every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. The corn is cooked when the husk is slightly charred and the kernels are tender and slightly caramelized.
Factors That Affect Cooking Time
There are several factors that can affect the cooking time of corn on the BBQ in the husk, including:
The heat of the grill: A hotter grill will cook the corn faster, while a cooler grill will take longer.
The type of corn: Sweet corn tends to cook faster than other varieties, while yellow and white corn may take a few minutes longer.
The level of doneness: If you prefer your corn more tender, you may need to cook it for a few minutes longer.
The size of the ears: Larger ears of corn may take longer to cook than smaller ones.
Techniques for Achieving Perfectly Grilled Corn
To achieve perfectly grilled corn, you will need to pay attention to the heat of the grill and the cooking time. Here are a few techniques to help you get the best results:
Rotating the Corn
To ensure even cooking, you will need to rotate the corn every 5 minutes. This will help to prevent the husk from burning and ensure that the kernels are cooked evenly.
Checking for Doneness
To check if the corn is cooked, you can pull back the husk and check the kernels. If they are tender and slightly caramelized, the corn is cooked. If not, you can return it to the grill for a few more minutes.
Tips and Variations for Grilling Corn in the Husk
Grilling corn in the husk is a versatile technique that can be adapted to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are a few tips and variations to help you get the most out of your grilled corn:
To add extra flavor to your grilled corn, you can brush it with butter, olive oil, or other seasonings before or after cooking.
To create a smoky flavor, you can add wood chips or chunks to the grill while the corn is cooking.
To make grilled corn a main dish, you can serve it with a variety of toppings, such as cheese, sour cream, and bacon bits.
Variations on the Theme
There are many variations on the theme of grilling corn in the husk, including:
Mexican-style grilled corn, which is brushed with mayonnaise and sprinkled with cotija cheese and chili powder.
Indian-style grilled corn, which is brushed with ghee and sprinkled with spices and herbs.
Grilled corn salads, which are made by combining grilled corn with other ingredients, such as cherry tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
In conclusion, grilling corn on the BBQ in the husk is a delicious and easy way to cook corn, and with the right techniques and tips, you can achieve perfectly cooked, mouth-watering results. By understanding the basics of grilling corn in the husk, choosing the right type of corn, and paying attention to the cooking time and heat of the grill, you can create a dish that is sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you are a seasoned griller or a beginner, the art of grilling corn in the husk is sure to become a favorite summer activity.
What are the benefits of grilling corn on the BBQ in the husk?
Grilling corn on the BBQ in the husk is a popular method for cooking corn because it provides several benefits. One of the main advantages is that it helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the corn. The husk acts as a natural steamer, keeping the corn tender and juicy. Additionally, grilling corn in the husk helps to add a smoky flavor to the corn, which is a result of the husk catching fire and infusing the corn with a rich, savory flavor.
This method of cooking corn is also relatively easy and requires minimal preparation. Simply soak the corn in water for about 30 minutes, place it on the grill, and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes. The husk will start to char and blacken, which is a sign that the corn is cooked. Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it cool. Then, peel back the husk and silk, and serve. The result is a delicious and flavorful side dish that is perfect for any BBQ or outdoor gathering.
How do I prepare the corn for grilling in the husk?
To prepare the corn for grilling in the husk, start by selecting fresh ears of corn with the husk still intact. Remove any excess silk or debris from the outside of the husk, but be careful not to remove too much of the husk, as this can cause the corn to dry out. Next, soak the corn in water for about 30 minutes to help keep it moist during the grilling process. This step is important because it helps to prevent the husk from catching fire too quickly and it also helps to keep the corn tender.
After soaking the corn, place it on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes. It’s a good idea to position the corn on the grill so that the husk is facing down, as this will help to prevent the husk from catching fire too quickly. As the corn cooks, the husk will start to char and blacken, which is a sign that the corn is cooked. Use a pair of tongs or a grill fork to turn the corn and to remove it from the grill once it’s cooked. Let the corn cool for a few minutes before peeling back the husk and serving.
What is the optimal grilling time for corn in the husk?
The optimal grilling time for corn in the husk is typically between 15-20 minutes, depending on the heat of the grill and the size of the corn. It’s a good idea to turn the corn every 5 minutes to ensure that it cooks evenly and to prevent the husk from burning too much. You can tell that the corn is cooked when the husk is charred and blackened, and when the corn is tender and slightly caramelized.
To ensure that the corn is cooked to perfection, it’s a good idea to check on it periodically as it’s grilling. After 10-12 minutes, carefully remove one of the ears of corn from the grill and peel back the husk to check on the corn. If the corn is not yet tender, return it to the grill and continue cooking for a few more minutes. Keep in mind that the grilling time may vary depending on the specific grill and the heat level, so it’s always a good idea to check on the corn frequently to avoid overcooking.
Can I grill corn in the husk at high heat or should I use low heat?
It’s generally recommended to grill corn in the husk at medium to medium-high heat, rather than high heat. This is because high heat can cause the husk to burn too quickly, which can result in a charred and bitter flavor. Medium heat, on the other hand, allows the corn to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a tender and flavorful ear of corn. A good rule of thumb is to grill the corn at a temperature of around 375-400°F (190-200°C), which should provide a nice balance between heat and cooking time.
Grilling corn at medium heat also helps to prevent the husk from catching fire too quickly, which can be a problem when grilling at high heat. To achieve the perfect grill marks and flavor, it’s a good idea to position the corn on the grill so that the husk is facing down, and to turn it every 5 minutes or so. This will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent the husk from burning too much. By grilling corn in the husk at medium heat, you can achieve a delicious and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any BBQ or outdoor gathering.
How do I know when the corn is fully cooked and ready to eat?
To determine if the corn is fully cooked and ready to eat, there are several signs to look out for. One of the most obvious signs is the color of the husk, which should be charred and blackened. You can also check the corn by carefully removing one of the ears from the grill and peeling back the husk. If the corn is tender and slightly caramelized, it’s ready to eat. Another way to check is to insert a fork or skewer into one of the kernels, if it slides in easily, the corn is cooked.
It’s also a good idea to check the corn for a slight give when you press on it. If the corn is fully cooked, it should be slightly soft to the touch, but still firm enough to hold its shape. If the corn is not yet cooked, it will be hard and dense, and will likely require a few more minutes on the grill. Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes before peeling back the husk and serving. You can serve the corn on its own, or slathered with butter, salt, and pepper for added flavor.
Can I add flavorings or seasonings to the corn while it’s grilling in the husk?
Yes, you can definitely add flavorings or seasonings to the corn while it’s grilling in the husk. One of the easiest ways to do this is to add a squeeze of lime juice or a sprinkle of herbs like cilantro or parsley to the corn before grilling. You can also try adding a pat of butter or a sprinkle of cheese to the corn for added flavor. Another option is to soak the corn in a flavorful liquid like beer or stock before grilling, which can help to add a rich and savory flavor to the corn.
To add flavorings or seasonings to the corn, simply sprinkle or brush them onto the corn before grilling, or soak the corn in a flavorful liquid before grilling. You can also try wrapping the corn in foil with some flavorings or seasonings, like garlic or chili powder, for added flavor. Keep in mind that the key is to not overdo it, as too many flavorings or seasonings can overpower the natural flavor of the corn. By adding a few simple flavorings or seasonings, you can elevate the flavor of the corn and create a delicious and memorable side dish.
Are there any safety precautions I should take when grilling corn in the husk?
Yes, there are several safety precautions you should take when grilling corn in the husk. One of the most important is to make sure the grill is clean and free of debris before cooking. This will help to prevent any foodborne illnesses and ensure that the corn cooks evenly. You should also make sure to handle the corn carefully, as the husk can be hot and fragile. Use a pair of tongs or a grill fork to turn the corn and remove it from the grill, rather than trying to handle it with your bare hands.
Another safety precaution to take is to keep an eye on the corn as it’s grilling, as the husk can catch fire if it’s not turned regularly. If the husk does catch fire, use a spray bottle of water to extinguish the flames, or move the corn to a cooler part of the grill. It’s also a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher nearby, just in case. By taking these simple safety precautions, you can enjoy delicious and flavorful grilled corn in the husk, while minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries.