How to Cook Corn on the Cob on a Blackstone for Perfectly Grilled Flavor Every Time

Have you ever bitten into a perfectly grilled ear of corn and thought, “I want to make that at home”? Cooking corn on the cob can be a game-changer for your summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. The Blackstone griddle is a fantastic tool for achieving that delicious char and flavor, but you might not know the best way to use it.

Choosing the Right Corn

Selecting the right corn impacts the overall flavor and texture of your dish. Fresh corn delivers sweetness and crunch, while frozen corn offers convenience without sacrificing taste.

Types of Corn for Cooking

When cooking corn on the cob, focus on varieties like:

• Sweet Corn: Popular for grilling, this type has a high sugar content. Varieties include Silver Queen and Sweet Jubilee.
• Field Corn: Mainly used for animal feed, it isn’t ideal for grilling due to its tough texture.
• Ornamental Corn: Primarily decorative, it’s not suited for cooking either.

Choose sweet corn for the best grilling experience.

Fresh vs. Frozen Corn

Fresh corn provides the best flavor, often featuring a sweet and juicy taste. Look for ears with plump kernels and bright green husks.

Frozen corn, on the other hand, offers convenience. It’s prepped and can be eaten quickly. Check the packaging for options.

Both fresh and frozen corn can create a tasty dish on your Blackstone griddle. If using fresh corn, soak the cobs in water for 30 minutes before cooking to retain moisture. If using frozen, thaw it and pat dry for even grilling.

Preparing the Corn

Preparing corn on the cob for cooking on a Blackstone griddle requires a few simple steps. Proper preparation enhances flavor and texture.

Shucking Corn on the Cob

Shucking corn means removing the husk and silk before cooking. Follow these steps:

1. Choose Fresh Corn: Look for green husks and moist silk. This indicates freshness.
2. Remove the Husk: Start at the top of the ear and peel back the green leaves. Pull them down to the base.
3. Detach the Silk: Gently remove the long threads. You can twist them off or pull them free with your fingers.
4. Clean the Corn: Rinse the ears under cold water to remove any remaining silk or dirt.

Properly shucked corn exposes the kernels, allowing for better seasoning and grilling.

Soaking Techniques

Soaking corn enhances moisture and flavor during grilling. Here’s how to soak corn:

1. Prepare a Soaking Bath: Fill a large pot or bucket with cold water.
2. Soak the Corn: Submerge the shucked corn in the water. Soak for at least 30 minutes.
3. Consider Saltwater: For additional flavor, mix in salt. Aim for a ratio of 1/4 cup of salt per gallon of water.

Soaking prevents the corn from drying out on the griddle, ensuring juicy kernels.

Cooking Methods on a Blackstone

Cooking corn on the cob on a Blackstone griddle offers various methods that enhance flavor and texture. Here are two popular techniques: grilling and boiling.

Grilling Corn on the Cob

Grilling corn on the cob creates a smoky flavor with beautiful grill marks. Follow these steps for perfectly grilled corn:

1. Preheat the Griddle: Heat the Blackstone to medium-high, around 400°F.
2. Prepare the Corn: After shucking and soaking the corn, pat it dry. Brush the corn with olive oil or melted butter, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place on the Griddle: Position the corn on the griddle. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes for even charring.
4. Check for Doneness: The corn is ready when it’s tender and has a few charred spots. You can also add more toppings, like parmesan or chili powder, for extra flavor.

Boiling Corn on the Blackstone

Boiling corn on the Blackstone is a quick method, focusing on retaining the corn’s natural sweetness. Here’s how to do it:

1. Fill the Griddle: Pour enough water into the Blackstone’s cooking surface to submerge the corn cobs.
2. Add Seasonings: Bring the water to a boil, adding salt for flavor. You might also add sugar for sweeter corn.
3. Cook the Corn: Add the shucked corn to the boiling water. Boil for 5-7 minutes until tender.
4. Serve Immediately: Remove the corn and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Brush with butter and sprinkle with salt or your favorite spices.

These methods provide versatility for cooking corn on the cob, ensuring a delicious side dish for any meal.

Flavoring Options

Enhancing the flavor of corn on the cob can elevate your grilling experience. You can choose various seasoning ideas and toppings to create a delicious dish.

Seasoning Ideas

1. Classic Salt & Pepper: Simple but effective. Sprinkle salt and freshly cracked pepper before grilling.
2. Garlic Powder: Add a savory touch by sprinkling garlic powder over the corn for extra depth.
3. Cajun Seasoning: Incorporate a spicy kick with Cajun seasoning for a vibrant flavor profile.
4. Chili Lime: Mix lime juice with chili powder for a zesty, tangy option. Brush it on while grilling.
5. Parmesan Cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese right after cooking for a rich finish.

1. Butter: Spread melted butter generously for a classic and creamy experience.
2. Herb Butter: Mix fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into softened butter for a fragrant topping.
3. Sour Cream: Dollop sour cream for a tangy and creamy delight.
4. Spicy Mayo: Combine mayo with sriracha for a spicy, creamy spread that livens up the flavor.
5. Lemon Zest: Grate lemon zest over your corn for an added burst of freshness.

Conclusion

Cooking corn on the cob on your Blackstone griddle can turn a simple ingredient into a standout dish. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just enjoying a weeknight dinner you’ll love the flavors you can create. With the right corn and a few easy techniques you can achieve that perfect char and juicy texture.

Don’t forget to experiment with different seasonings and toppings to find your favorite flavor combinations. So fire up your griddle and get ready to impress your family and friends with delicious corn on the cob that’s sure to be a hit at any table. Enjoy every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to cook corn on the cob at home?

Cooking corn on the cob at home can be easily done using a Blackstone griddle. For the best results, grill the corn after shucking and soaking it for about 30 minutes. Preheat the griddle, add olive oil or butter, and grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning for even charring.

What types of corn are best for grilling?

Sweet corn varieties such as Silver Queen and Sweet Jubilee are ideal for grilling because of their natural sweetness and crunch. Avoid field and ornamental corn, as they aren’t meant for cooking and lack the needed flavor for grilling.

Is fresh corn better than frozen corn?

Fresh corn typically delivers superior flavor, sweetness, and crunch compared to frozen corn. However, frozen corn is a convenient alternative that remains tasty, making it a practical choice for quick meals without sacrificing quality.

How do you properly shuck corn on the cob?

To shuck corn, choose fresh ears, then remove the outer husk and silk completely. Wipe the corn with a damp cloth to clean it thoroughly. Properly shucked corn allows for better seasoning and ensures optimal grilling.

What are the benefits of soaking corn before grilling?

Soaking corn in cold water for at least 30 minutes helps prevent it from drying out during grilling. It also enhances flavor and texture, resulting in juicier kernels. Adding salt to the soaking water can further boost taste.

What are some good seasoning ideas for grilled corn?

For flavoring grilled corn, consider classic seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder, or try Cajun seasoning and chili lime for a kick. Toppings like melted butter, herb butter, sour cream, and lemon zest can elevate the taste even further.

How long should corn be boiled on the Blackstone griddle?

When boiling corn on the Blackstone griddle, fill it with water and season as desired. Cook the corn for 5-7 minutes. This method helps retain the natural sweetness of the corn while ensuring tenderness.