When the summer sun is high in the sky and fresh corn is at its peak, there’s no better way to enjoy this sweet summer treat than grilled corn on the cob in foil. The combination of smoky, charred kernels with creamy, herb-flecked compound butter is simply irresistible. This easy foil packet method steams the corn to tender perfection while enhancing all its natural sweetness. Take your summer barbecues to the next level with this crowd-pleasing grilled corn recipe.
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Corn on the cob is a classic summer staple for good reason. When fresh picked, sweet corn has an unbeatable sweetness and juicy crunch. The brief window for peak seasonal sweet corn means we have to make the most of it! Grilling is one of the quickest and tastiest ways to highlight sweet corn’s best attributes.
The dry heat caramelizes the natural sugars, while imparting delicious charred bits that accentuate the sweetness. The smoky flavor pairs perfectly with luscious, herb-flecked compound butter. This dynamic combination is how grilled corn on the cob became a beloved summer tradition across America.
To make heavenly grilled corn, it all starts with selecting the best, freshest corn you can find. Here are some tips:
Picking ripe, in-season corn guarantees you start with the best base for grilling. Now let’s get into the fun add-ons!
What really elevates basic grilled corn to new heights is slathering on a flavored compound butter. By blending together softened butter with herbs, spices, aromatics and cheese, you can create a flavor bomb in every bite!
Here is a classic combo that pairs perfectly with sweet grilled corn:
Process the ingredients together thoroughly in a food processor or blender. For a quick short-cut, you can even finely mince the add-ins and mix together with a fork. Shape the compound butter into a log and chill until firm. Then just slice off a pat with each thick ear of grilled corn for flavorful bliss!
There are endless ways to customize compound butters to suit your tastes. Get creative with minced jalapeños, cilantro, chipotle powder, citrus zest, thyme, sage, honey, and more. The options are limitless for making grilled corn irresistible.
One of the best aspects of this foil packet grilled corn recipe is that you don’t need any fancy equipment or specialized grilling tools. As long as you have:
You’re all set! A gas, charcoal, indoor electric grill or even stovetop ridged grill pan all work well.
Some extras that are helpful but not essential:
The simple materials let you focus on the fun part – grilling up sweet corn goodness!
Follow these simple steps for grilled corn success:
Grilling corn in foil packets makes for easy, fuss-free grilling. But to take your corn on the cob to the next level, keep these expert tips in mind:
The beauty of grilled corn on the cob is that it complements just about any summer meal or cookout menu. From classic barbecues to picnics, potlucks and more, it’s a universally loved side.
For traditional pairings, serve it with:
But don’t be afraid to also think outside the box! Grilled corn brings sweetness and texture to:
Slices of leftover grilled corn also work nicely in chilled grain bowls and salsa. Get creative mixing and matching with your favorite summer fare.
The beauty of compound butter is how infinitely adaptable it is by mixing and matching ingredients. Kick the flavor up a notch by trying:
Swap in different fresh herbs like dill, rosemary, thyme or sage. Add spices like chili powder, curry powder, paprika or dry ranch seasoning. Substitute crumbled cheeses like feta, cotija, bleu cheese or fontina.
Corn on the cob in foil takes about 15-20 minutes on medium heat, turning occasionally. The foil helps steam the corn and keep it tender.
Grilling corn in the husk imparts the most flavor as the husk steams the corn in its own moisture. But foil is more convenient if you want to add butter or seasoning. Both work well.
Soak husked corn in water for 15 minutes before grilling. Grill over med-high heat for 15-20 mins, turning regularly, until kernels are tender when pierced with a fork. Season with salt, pepper, and butter.
Soaking helps steam and cook the corn more evenly. But you can get away without soaking if you are grilling for a brief time. Soaking is recommended for maximum tenderness.
Charred over an open flame then slathered in savory, herby butter, grilled corn encapsulates the tastes of summer we look forward to all year long. The irresistible flavor combo of smoky sweet corn with creamy, spice-flecked butter will have everyone going back for seconds. Using simple foil packets means flawlessly grilled corn with no fuss.
This easy technique works on any grill so you can enjoy backyard barbecue bliss anytime. Just be ready for pleading requests to make this crowd-pleasing grilled corn all summer long. Customize the flavored butter to match whatever you’re craving. Grill up a batch for your next warm weather get-together and watch it disappear fast.
From traditional barbecue sides to creative salad toppings, this recipe brings joy to any meal. As the summer sun shines down, keep savoring the limited days of peak sweet corn with this go-to grilling recipe. Just unwrap the perfectly steamed and charred ears, and let the sweet corn goodness transport you straight to summer.
Hello! I’m Christine Ha – a food nerd in love with eating, cooking, photography, science, and culture.
Vietnamese food was always on the table when I was a kid, but I didn’t really care for it until my late teens (what a waste!). I was a super picky eater and mostly just wanted fast food. Somewhere down the line I flipped a switch, and now home-cooked food is something I appreciate so much more. ⮕About me
This post was last modified on 06/23/2024 07:22
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