How to Cook Corn on The Cob in The Microwave

Cooking corn on the cob in the microwave has several benefits. For one, it is a very quick and easy way to cook corn. Simply peel back the husks, remove the silks, and microwave the corn for a few minutes. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or when you don’t want to fire up the grill.

In addition to being quick and easy, cooking corn on the cob in the microwave can also help preserve its nutrients. Because microwave cooking times are shorter and the corn is cooked in its own natural juices, it can help retain more of its vitamins and minerals compared to boiling or grilling.

This method is also perfect for cooking small quantities of corn. If you only need to cook one or two ears of corn, it can be more practical to use the microwave than to heat up the grill or boil a pot of water. Overall, microwave cooking is a convenient and nutritious option for corn on the cob.

How to Cook Corn on The Cob in Microwave

How to Cook Corn on The Cob in The Microwave 

Ingredients:

To cook corn on the cob in the microwave, you will need the following ingredients:

  • Ears of corn: Look for fresh ears of corn with husks that are green and tightly wrapped around the corn. Avoid corn with brown or dried-out husks.
  • Paper towels: You will need a few damp paper towels to cover the corn while it cooks in the microwave. This helps steam the corn and keep it moist.

You will also need a bowl of cold water and a towel to soak the corn in and pat it dry before cooking. Additionally, you will need to remove the silks (the thin, stringy strands inside the husks) before cooking.

That’s all you need to cook corn on the cob in the microwave! 

Preparation: 

To prepare the corn for microwaving, follow these steps:

  1. Start by peeling back the husks of the corn, being careful not to remove them completely.
  2. Remove the silks from the corn by gently pulling them away from the cob.
  3. Place the ears of corn in a large bowl of cold water. Soak the corn for at least 10-15 minutes to help soften the husks.
  4. After soaking, remove the corn from the water and pat it dry with a towel.
  5. Place the corn on a plate or in a shallow dish, and cover it with damp paper towels.

Cooking Process:

To cook the corn in the microwave, follow these steps:

  1. Place the plate with the corn in the microwave and cook on high for 6-10 minutes, depending on the size of the ears of corn.
  2. If you are cooking more than one ear of corn, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
  3. To ensure evenly cooked corn, you can rotate the ears halfway through cooking.

Here are a few additional tips for successful microwave cooking of corn on the cob:

  • If you prefer your corn to have a softer texture, you can microwave it for a few minutes longer (15 minutes).
  • If you prefer your corn to have a firmer texture, you can microwave it for a shorter amount of time (5 minutes).
  • You can also adjust the cooking time based on the wattage of your microwave. Higher-wattage microwaves tend to cook faster, so you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly.
  • To avoid overcooking the corn, be sure to check it frequently while it is cooking. The husks should be dry and the kernels should be tender when the corn is fully cooked.

Best Serving:

There are many delicious ways to serve corn on the cob. Some classic options include:

  • Butter and salt: Simply brush melted butter over the corn and sprinkle it with salt before serving. You can also add other herbs or spices, such as basil, chives, or paprika.
  • Other seasonings: Try sprinkling your corn with a blend of your favorite seasonings, such as Parmesan cheese, chili powder, or cumin. You can also mix mayonnaise, lime juice, and chili powder to create a creamy and spicy sauce to drizzle over the corn.
  • As part of a larger meal: Corn on the cob is a great addition to any barbecue or summer cookout. Serve it alongside burgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken, or ribs.

In addition to these classic options, there are many other creative ways to serve corn on the cob. Here are a few more ideas:

  • Grilled corn: If you prefer a slightly smoky flavor, you can grill your corn on the cob instead of microwaving it. Simply soak the husks in water for at least 30 minutes, then grill the corn over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
  • Corn salad: For a lighter and fresher option, you can remove the kernels from the cob and mix them with a variety of ingredients to create a corn salad. Try combining the corn with diced tomatoes, avocado, red onion, cilantro, and a lime vinaigrette for a delicious and refreshing summer salad.

Overall, the possibilities for serving corn on the cob are endless. Experiment with different seasonings and serving ideas to find the combination that you like best!

FAQs 

Can you cook corn in the microwave without the husk?

It is possible to cook corn on the cob in the microwave without the husk, but it is not the most common method. The husks and silks help to keep the corn moist while it cooks, and they also help to protect the kernels from the direct heat of the microwave. If you do decide to cook corn on the cob without the husk, you will need to wrap it in damp paper towels or microwave-safe plastic wrap to help keep it moist.

Is it better to boil or microwave corn on the cob?

Both boiling and microwaving are effective ways to cook corn on the cob. Boiling tends to produce softer and more flavorful corn, but it can also cause the corn to lose some of its nutrients. Microwaving tends to preserve more of the corn’s nutrients, but it can produce a firmer texture and may not be as flavorful as boiling. Ultimately, the best method for cooking corn on the cob will depend on your personal preference.

Can you overcook corn on the cob in the microwave?

It is possible to overcook corn on the cob in the microwave, resulting in kernels that are mushy or burst open. To avoid overcooking, be sure to check the corn frequently while it is cooking and stop the microwave as soon as the husks are dry and the kernels are tender. You may also want to adjust the cooking time based on the size and quantity of the ears of corn, as well as the wattage of your microwave.

How do you know when corn on the cob is done?

Corn on the cob is usually done when the husks are dry and the kernels are tender. You can test the corn by gently pressing a kernel with your fingernail; if it easily punctures the kernel, the corn is likely done. You can also try pulling back the husks slightly to check the color of the kernels. If they are a deep yellow or golden color, the corn is likely done. It is important to avoid overcooking the corn, as this can result in mushy or burnt kernels.

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