How to Boil Corn on the Cob
Ingredients
Ears of corn
One quart of water per ear of corn
Directions
Step 1: Prep the corn
Remove the husks and silk. Cut out any blemishes with a sharp knife.
Step 2: Place corn in boiling water
Once your pot of water is boiling, add the cobs. Cover the pan and let the water return to a boil.
Editor’s Tip: Never boil your corn in salted water! It can make the kernels very tough.
Step 3: Boil
Boil the corn until tender, 3-5 minutes. Remember, the cooking time will depend on the variety and maturity of your corn.
Step 4: Enjoy!
Turn off the heat and carefully remove the cobs with tongs. You can keep the remaining corn warm in the water for another 10 minutes without it becoming too tough. Or, place the corn on a platter and cover it with a dish towel. This keeps most of the heat in.
Have you ever boiled cobs with milk? Learn how to make corn on the cob with milk and butter for the ultimate summer side dish.
What to Put on Corn on the Cob
Piping hot sweet corn is even better with a thick pat of herb butter. Each variation below makes about half a cup. If you have an abundance of herbs, make a few batches and freeze for up to six months.
Classic herb butter: Combine 1/2 cup softened butter, 1 tablespoon minced fresh tarragon, 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon minced fresh chives, 1 minced garlic clove and 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper.
Rosemary, hazelnut and lemon butter: Combine 1/2 cup softened butter, 1/4 cup chopped toasted hazelnuts, 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary, 2 teaspoons grated lemon peel and 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper.
Basil butter: Combine 1/2 cup softened butter, 3/4 cup minced fresh basil, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper and 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt.
