Sweet corn heaven: how to husk and cook corn perfectly
What To Know
- Whether you’re a backyard gardener or a grilling enthusiast, knowing how to husk corn properly will save you time and effort, ensuring that your corn is ready to cook and serve in no time.
- If you have a corn stripper, place the corn cob in the stripper and squeeze the handles to remove the kernels.
- If you don’t have a corn stripper or knife, you can use a spoon to scrape the kernels off the cob.
Husking sweet corn is a simple yet essential skill for anyone who enjoys this summer staple. Whether you’re a backyard gardener or a grilling enthusiast, knowing how to husk corn properly will save you time and effort, ensuring that your corn is ready to cook and serve in no time. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of husking sweet corn, providing tips and tricks to make the task effortless.
Removing the Husk
1. Prepare the Corn: Hold the ear of corn upright on a cutting board or in your palm.
2. Grasp the Husk: With one hand, grasp the top of the husk near the tassel end.
3. Pull Down: Use your other hand to gently pull down on the husk, peeling it away from the corn.
4. Remove the Silk: Once the husk is peeled back, remove any remaining silk strands by hand.
Trimming the Ends
1. Cut the Stem: Use a sharp knife to cut off about 1 inch from the stem end of the corn.
2. Trim the Tassel: Cut off about 1 inch from the tassel end as well.
Splitting the Corn
1. Use a Sharp Knife: Hold the corn upright on the cutting board. Use a sharp knife to make a shallow cut lengthwise down the center of the corn.
2. Split the Corn: Carefully split the corn into two halves.
Removing the Kernels
1. Use a Corn Stripper: If you have a corn stripper, place the corn cob in the stripper and squeeze the handles to remove the kernels.
2. Use a Knife: Hold the corn half in one hand and use a sharp knife to cut the kernels off the cob.
3. Use a Spoon: If you don’t have a corn stripper or knife, you can use a spoon to scrape the kernels off the cob.
Tips for Husking Sweet Corn
- Choose Fresh Corn: Husking fresh corn is much easier than husking old or dry corn.
- Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will make cutting the stem and tassel ends easier.
- Protect Your Hands: Wear gloves or use a towel to protect your hands from the sharp husks.
- Work Over a Bowl: Husking corn over a bowl will catch the husks and silk.
- Remove All the Silk: Make sure to remove all the silk strands to prevent them from getting into your food.
Storing Husked Corn
- Refrigerate: Store husked corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze husked corn for up to 6 months. Place the corn in a freezer bag or container and remove as much air as possible.
Wrapping Up
Husking sweet corn is a simple and rewarding task that can be mastered with a little practice. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to husk corn like a pro, ensuring that you have perfectly prepared corn for your next meal. Enjoy the sweet, juicy goodness of fresh corn all summer long!
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Why is it important to remove all the silk from the corn?
Silk can be tough and fibrous, which can affect the taste and texture of your corn.
2. Can I husk corn with a microwave?
Yes, you can microwave corn for 2-3 minutes to loosen the husks. Be careful not to overcook the corn.
3. How can I prevent the husks from sticking to my hands?
Wear gloves or use a towel to protect your hands from the sticky husks.
4. What can I do with the husks after I’ve husked the corn?
You can compost the husks or use them to make a natural dye.
5. How long can I store husked corn?
Husked corn can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months.