Traditional Boiled Corn on the Cob

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 7 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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This traditional boiled corn on the cob recipe is the epitome of simplicity and summer nostalgia. It’s quick, straightforward, and lets the natural sweetness of the corn shine through with just a touch of buttery indulgence.

Ingredients for Traditional Boiled Corn on the Cob

Corn: The star of the show, fresh corn on the cob is best during peak season when it's sweet and juicy. If you can, get it from a local farmer’s market for the freshest taste.

Salted Water: Salting the water helps enhance the corn’s natural flavors. Use a generous amount, like you would for pasta.

Butter: Melts beautifully over the hot corn, adding richness and a creamy texture. Choose a good quality butter for the best taste.

Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate the taste of the corn, allowing you to adjust according to your preference.

Tips & Tricks

  • For the best flavor, use corn that’s as fresh as possible, ideally corn picked the same day.
  • If you're cooking for a crowd, you can keep boiled corn warm in a low oven wrapped in foil.
  • For a twist, try adding a pinch of sugar to the boiling water for an extra hint of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Boiled corn on the cob pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or steak. It also complements a fresh garden salad or a light pasta dish. For a fun variation, serve it with a sprinkle of chili powder and lime for a Mexican street corn vibe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen corn?
Yes, you can. Just add a few extra minutes to the boiling time since frozen corn will take a bit longer to heat through.
How do I know when the corn is done?
The kernels should be tender and a bright yellow color. You can test a kernel by piercing it with a fork or tasting it.

Traditional Boiled Corn on the Cob Recipe Walkthrough

Start by filling a large pot with enough water to cover the corn completely. Add a generous amount of salt—think of it like seasoning the water for pasta. Place the pot on the stove over high heat and bring it to a rolling boil.

Once the water is boiling, add your husked corn to the pot. Cover it with a lid to trap the heat, which helps the corn cook evenly. Boil the corn for about 5 to 7 minutes. You'll know it's done when the kernels are tender and a vibrant yellow.

Using tongs, carefully remove the corn from the pot and let it drain briefly. Serve the corn immediately while it's still hot, slathered with butter and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper to taste.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for summer barbecues or a simple side dish.
  • Quick to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
  • Highlights the natural sweetness and flavor of fresh corn.
  • Minimal ingredients required, maximizing ease and flavor.

Ingredients

4 ears of corn, husked
Salted water for boiling
Butter, to taste
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover corn completely, add a generous amount of salt, and bring to a boil.
2. Add the husked corn to the boiling water and cover the pot.
3. Boil the corn for 5-7 minutes or until the kernels are tender and bright yellow.
4. Remove corn from water using tongs and let them drain.
5. Serve immediately with butter, salt, and pepper to taste.

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