Grilling corn on the cob is one of the best ways to enjoy this summertime favorite. However, there is a debate among home cooks and grill masters about whether or not to par boil corn before grilling it. Some argue that par boiling is necessary to ensure that the corn cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out on the grill. Others say that par boiling is unnecessary and can actually make the corn lose some of its natural sweetness and flavor.
In this article, we will explore both sides of this debate and provide you with the information you need to decide whether or not to par boil your corn before grilling it. We’ll look at the pros and cons of par boiling, as well as tips for grilling corn to perfection. So, whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice cook, read on to discover the best way to grill corn on the cob.
Grilling Basics: The Best Way to Cook Corn on the Cob
Grilling is a popular method for cooking corn on the cob, as it imparts a smoky, charred flavor that is hard to replicate with other cooking methods. To grill corn on the cob, start by soaking the ears in water for at least 30 minutes. This helps keep the husks from burning and also adds moisture to the kernels.
Next, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn on the cob directly on the grill grates and cook, turning occasionally, until the husks are charred and the kernels are tender, about 10-15 minutes. If desired, you can also brush the corn with melted butter or your favorite seasonings before grilling to add even more flavor. Overall, grilling corn on the cob is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this summertime staple.
Pros and Cons of Par Boiling Corn Before Grilling
Par boiling corn before grilling is a widely debated topic among grill enthusiasts. While some believe it is essential for perfect grilling, others view it as an unnecessary step. In this section, we will discuss the pros and cons of par boiling corn before grilling to help you make an informed decision.
One of the significant advantages of par boiling corn is that it shortens the cooking time on the grill. When you partially cook the corn first, it becomes tender and cooks faster on the grill, allowing you to achieve that perfect char without overcooking the kernels. Additionally, par boiling locks in the corn’s flavors and nutrients, so it remains tasty and fresh after grilling. On the downside, par boiling can reduce the corn’s crisp texture, and some believe it diminishes the smoky flavor that grilling imparts. Ultimately, whether to par boil the corn or not boils down to personal preference and the recipe at hand.
How Par Boiling Corn Affects Its Texture and Taste
Par boiling corn before grilling is a common technique used by many experienced grillers. However, the texture and taste of the corn may be affected by the process of par boiling. Par boiling helps to cook the corn kernels partially before it is grilled, which can make the kernels slightly softer and easier to bite into. This is especially beneficial if you prefer a more tender and juicy corn on the cob.
Additionally, par boiling also helps to infuse some flavor into the corn. The corn absorbs some of the flavors from the boiling water, which can add a subtle hint of sweetness to the corn. However, it is important not to overdo the boiling process as this may make the corn too soft and lose its natural flavors. Overall, par boiling corn can be a great way to improve the texture and taste of your grilled corn on the cob.
Expert Tips for Successful Grilled Corn Without Par Boiling
Grilling corn on the cob is one of the most beloved summertime traditions across the world. Although many people prefer parboiling the corn before grilling it, there are other ways to cook it without this extra step. Here are some expert tips for successfully grilling corn without par boiling it.
Firstly, it’s essential to preheat the grill before placing the corn on it. Brush the corn with olive oil or butter and season it with salt and pepper or your favorite spices. You can also wrap the corn in foil or leave the husks on and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. Grill the corn for 10 to 15 minutes, turning it occasionally, until it becomes golden brown. You will get crispy, sweet, and smoky flavors instead of a soft, mushy, boiled taste. These methods will make you skip parboiling the corn and allow you to enjoy the original corn flavor and texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Grilling Corn on the Cob
When grilling corn on the cob, there are some common mistakes that people make which can lead to an unsatisfactory end result. One of the most common mistakes is not properly preparing the corn before grilling. It is important to remove the husk and silk from the corn and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will help keep the corn moist and prevent it from drying out while on the grill.
Another mistake is leaving the corn on the grill for too long. Corn on the cob only takes about 10-15 minutes to cook on the grill, so leaving it on for too long can result in it becoming burnt or overcooked. Additionally, not properly oiling or seasoning the corn can lead to a lack of flavor. It is important to brush the corn with oil or butter and season it with salt and pepper before grilling. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your grilled corn on the cob turns out perfectly every time.
Factors to Consider When Deciding Whether to Par Boil Corn
When deciding whether to par boil corn before grilling, there are a few important factors to consider. First, consider the freshness and tenderness of the corn. If you are working with extremely fresh and tender corn, par boiling may not be necessary as the corn will grill perfectly on its own. However, if you are dealing with older or tougher corn, par boiling can help soften it up and ensure that it cooks evenly on the grill.
Another factor to consider is the overall flavor and texture you are looking to achieve. Par boiling can actually dilute the flavor of the corn slightly, making it less sweet and more starchy. If you are going for a classic, traditional corn-on-the-cob flavor, skipping the par boiling step may be the way to go. However, if you want a perfectly cooked corn on the cob that is evenly cooked, par boiling can help with that. Ultimately, the decision to par boil or not comes down to your own preference and the specific corn you are working with.
Choosing the Right Corn for Grilling: What to Look For
When it comes to grilling corn, choosing the right variety is key. Look for ears that are firm and feel heavy for their size. The husks should be tightly wrapped and slightly moist but not slimy. Avoid corn with dry or brownish husks as this indicates the corn is past its prime.
Sweet corn is the most commonly used variety for grilling due to its natural sweetness, but there are other options worth exploring such as field corn and popcorn. Field corn is denser and less sweet but has a more complex flavor that is well suited for grilling. Popcorn, on the other hand, has a nuttier taste and a firmer texture, which makes it ideal for grilling and eating as a snack. Ultimately, the choice is yours and should be based on personal preference.
Verdict
Grilling is a great way to cook corn; however, there is the ongoing debate on whether or not to parboil corn before grilling. I firmly believe that parboiling corn before grilling is not necessary. This is because it can cause the corn to lose its flavor, texture, and nutritional value.
Grilling corn straight away without boiling it is a great way to ensure that it retains its natural flavors, nutrients, and texture. Grilling corn also gives it a crispy charred flavor, which is simply unbeatable. By skipping the parboiling process, you also save time, energy, and water. Ultimately, the choice is yours, but in my experience, I have found that the best way to enjoy corn is straight off the grill without any parboiling.