Grilled Corn off the Cob (Bhutta/Makai)
Ingredients
- 4 ears corn, husked and silky thread remove
- 1 teaspoon oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon finely grated ginger
Instructions
- Remove the kernels from corn, it is easy to do, tear the husk off, and then run the knife downwards to remove the kernels.
- Coat the flat bottom heavy frying pan with oil and heat over medium high heat, put the corn kernels and stir fry for 4-5 minutes stirring continuously.
- While stir frying kernels will be getting some light and some dark brown color, some of the kernels will pop like you are grilling.
- When the kernels are similar in color turn off the heat, and add salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and ginger mix it well.
- You will be amazed by the taste. They match the taste of corn grilled over charcoal, without even preparing the grill.
Grill Corn off the Cob: A Flavorful Delight
Grilled corn off the cob makes for a delightful appetizer, perfect for summer gatherings, that’s gluten-free, vegan, and kid-friendly, offering a wholesome snack option for everyone to enjoy. Grilling corn off the cob is a fantastic way to elevate this classic vegetable, imparting a delightful smoky flavor while maintaining its natural sweetness.
Grilling corn off the cob not only adds depth to the taste but also brings a visually appealing charred texture to the dish. If you’re wondering how to grill corn off the cob, fear not! It’s simpler than you think. Let’s dive into the process and explore the nuances of this delectable preparation.
Step 1: Preparing the Corn
To begin, select fresh corn on the cob from your local market. Peel back the husks and remove the silk strands from each cob. This step is crucial to ensure a smooth grilling process. Once cleaned, gently pat the corn dry with a paper towel. Grilling corn off the cob requires the kernels to be free of excess moisture for optimal results.
Step 2: Preheating the Grill
Now, it’s time to fire up the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it reaches the ideal temperature for corn off the cob on the grill. A well-heated grill ensures that the corn cooks evenly and develops those desirable grill marks.
Step 3: Grilling the Corn
Carefully place the prepared corn directly on the grill grates. Allow the corn to cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Keep a close eye on the corn to prevent it from burning. The goal is to achieve a golden char on the kernels, enhancing their flavor profile. This step is crucial in mastering grilled corn off the cob to perfection.
Step 4: Removing the Corn from the Grill
Once the corn is evenly grilled and boasts a beautiful char, carefully remove it from the grill using tongs. Place the grilled corn on a serving platter, ready to be enjoyed as a delightful side dish or a standalone treat. The aroma wafting from the corn off the cob on the grill is irresistible, beckoning eager diners to indulge in its smoky goodness.
Step 5: Serving Suggestions
Grilled corn off the cob pairs wonderfully with a variety of flavor-enhancing toppings. Consider brushing the kernels with melted butter and sprinkling them with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper for a classic twist. Alternatively, experiment with tangy lime juice, chili powder, and crumbled cotija cheese for a Mexican-inspired flair. The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving grill corn off the cob.
Tips for Success
- Maintain medium-high heat: Consistency in heat is key to achieving perfectly grilled corn off the cob. Avoid fluctuations in temperature for optimal results.
- Rotate the corn: Turning the corn regularly ensures even cooking and prevents any single side from burning.
- Experiment with seasonings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with seasonings and toppings to elevate the flavor profile of your grilled corn off the cob.
Variations to Explore
- Spicy Chipotle Corn: Brush grilled corn with chipotle-infused butter for a smoky and spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused Corn: Toss grilled corn with chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro, parsley, and chives for a burst of freshness.
- Sweet and Savory Corn: Drizzle grilled corn with honey and sprinkle with crispy bacon bits for a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.
Benefits of Grilling Corn off the Cob
Grilling corn off the cob offers numerous benefits beyond its enticing flavor. By removing the kernels from the cob, you create a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into various dishes with ease. Additionally, grilling imparts a smoky essence to the corn, enhancing its natural sweetness and elevating its overall taste profile. Furthermore, corn off the cob on the grill is a visually appealing dish that adds a pop of color to any table spread, making it a favorite among both chefs and diners alike.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I grill corn off the cob ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Grilled corn off the cob can be prepared in advance and reheated just before serving. Simply store the grilled kernels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat the corn in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze grilled corn off the cob?
A: Yes, you can freeze grilled corn off the cob for future use. Allow the grilled kernels to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the container with the date and store it in the freezer for up to three months. To use, simply thaw the corn in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I grill corn off the cob indoors?
A: While grilling corn off the cob is traditionally done outdoors on a grill, you can also achieve similar results indoors using a grill pan or a cast-iron skillet. Simply heat the grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and follow the same grilling process as you would on an outdoor grill.
Q: Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh for grilling?
A: While fresh corn is preferred for grilling, you can certainly use frozen corn kernels as a convenient alternative. Thaw the frozen corn before grilling and pat it dry to remove excess moisture. Keep in mind that frozen corn may require slightly longer cooking time than fresh corn to achieve that perfect char.
Explore More Recipes
Looking to expand your culinary repertoire? Explore more mouthwatering recipes on Manjula’s Kitchen:
- Malai Kofta Recipe
- Palak (Spinach) Paneer Recipe
- Aloo Gobi (Potato and Cauliflower) Recipe
- Vegetable Pakoras Recipe
- Kaju Katli (Cashew Burfi) Recipe
- Baingan Bharta (Roasted Eggplant) Recipe
With these delectable recipes at your fingertips, you’re sure to impress family and friends with your culinary prowess. Happy cooking!
Great helping material! Everything is very open with a clear explanation of the info. It was definitely unique and informative for everyone. Your site is very helpful. Many thanks for sharing such info like this!
thank you
Manjula Auntie, thanks a lot for this wonderful recipe. Can I store them? If so, for how many days can I store them?
Akshatha
Akshatha, taste best just after grilling but next day taste great
Really ur recipes are so amazing .. I ever try many recipe’s of urs .. We love it .. Thanxx
This is just wonderful. I have not yet tried it, but I like your innovation and convenient way of making this snack. Thank you.
Can I please replace it with frozen corn kernel as fresh is not available at my place.
Shraddy, ti will not be the same, but still should be good.
Scrumptious!!!!
My family loved it. Thank you.