Can You Microwave Corn on the Cob? A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Corn on the cob is a delicious summer treat that’s easy to cook and perfect for barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings. However, if you don’t want to fire up the grill or boil a pot of water, you might be wondering if you can microwave corn on the cob instead. The good news is that you can, and it’s a quick and convenient way to enjoy this classic dish at home.

In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to microwaving corn on the cob, explore the pros and cons of this cooking method, offer tips and tricks for achieving optimal results, share creative recipe ideas, and answer some frequently asked questions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered.

Step-by-Step Guide

Before we dive into the specifics of microwaving corn on the cob, here’s a quick overview of the steps involved:

Choose the right corn and prepare it for microwaving
Place the corn in the microwave and set it up
Adjust the cooking time and power level depending on the corn’s size and freshness
Check the corn periodically to ensure it’s cooking evenly
Take the cooked corn out of the microwave and let it cool down before serving

Step 1: Choosing the Right Corn and Preparing it for Microwaving

Choosing the right corn is crucial to achieving great results when microwaving. Look for freshly picked corn with bright green husks, tight kernels, and no visible signs of damage or decay. Peel back the husks to inspect the kernels and remove any silks or debris.

For microwaving, it’s best to leave the husks on the corn and just cut off the top ends, which will make it easy to remove the husks and silks once it’s cooked. However, if you prefer to remove the husks and silk before cooking, you can do so as well.

Step 2: Placing the Corn in the Microwave and Setting it Up

To microwave corn on the cob, you’ll need a microwave-safe plate or dish that’s big enough to hold the corn. Place the corn on the plate and cover it loosely with a damp paper towel or plastic wrap. This will help keep the corn moist and prevent it from drying out or cooking unevenly. Make sure to leave a small opening to allow steam to escape.

Step 3: Adjusting the Microwave Cooking Time and Power Level

The cooking time and power level for microwaving corn on the cob will depend on the corn’s size, freshness, and your microwave’s wattage. In general, you’ll want to microwave one ear of corn on high for about 3-5 minutes, and two ears for 5-7 minutes. If you’re cooking more than two ears at once, you’ll need to add an extra minute or two per ear.

If your corn is very fresh, you can use a lower power setting to cook it more gently and ensure that it cooks evenly. Most microwaves have power level settings from 1-10, with 5 being the default. For fresh corn, try a setting of 3-4 and cook for a bit longer than you normally would.

Step 4: Checking the Corn Periodically to Ensure it’s Cooking Evenly

It’s important to check the corn periodically while it’s cooking to make sure it’s cooking evenly and to avoid overcooking. Use oven mitts to carefully remove the plate from the microwave and use tongs to turn the corn over. If you’re cooking more than one ear, rotate them as well. Check the kernels for doneness and return the plate to the microwave for additional cooking time if necessary.

Step 5: Taking the Cooked Corn out of the Microwave and Letting it Cool Down Before Serving

Once the corn is cooked to your liking, carefully remove it from the microwave using oven mitts or pot holders. Use tongs to remove the husks and silks if you haven’t already. Let the corn cool down for a few minutes before serving, as it will be very hot. You can season it with butter, salt, pepper, or any other toppings you like.

Pros and Cons

There are several benefits to microwaving corn on the cob as opposed to boiling or grilling it. Here are a few:

It’s quick and convenient, taking only a few minutes to cook
It’s a good way to retain the nutritional value of the corn
It doesn’t require any pots, pans, or utensils

However, there are also some downsides to microwaving corn. Here are a few to consider:

The corn may not be as flavorful as boiled or grilled corn, particularly if you don’t use butter or other toppings
The cooking may be uneven if you don’t check it regularly
The corn may overheat or burn if you cook it for too long

Tips and Tricks

If you want to get the most out of microwaving corn on the cob, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:

If you’re microwaving more than one ear of corn, try to arrange them in a circle to ensure even cooking
If you’re using a lower power setting, try adding a bit of water to the plate to create steam and help cook the corn more gently
If your corn is very fresh, you may not need to cook it for as long as you would older corn. Keep an eye on it and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Consider seasoning your corn before microwaving it to add flavor. You can brush it with olive oil, sprinkle it with garlic powder, or use a dry rub of your choice.

Recipe Ideas

While microwaving corn on the cob is a great way to enjoy a classic summer dish, there are also many other creative recipes you can try. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Corn Salad: Mix microwaved corn with diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro. Dress with lime juice, olive oil, and salt.
Cornbread: Use microwaved corn instead of canned corn in your favorite cornbread recipe for a fresher taste.
Corn Fritters: Mix microwaved corn with flour, egg, milk, and seasonings. Fry in a pan until golden brown.

Safety Guide: Do’s and Don’ts

Microwaving corn on the cob is generally safe as long as you follow some basic guidelines. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do use oven mitts or pot holders to handle hot corn
Do check the corn periodically to ensure it’s cooking evenly
Do use a microwave-safe plate or dish that’s big enough to hold the corn
Don’t overheat or burn the corn by cooking it for too long
Don’t use a metal plate or dish in the microwave, as this can cause a fire

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about microwaving corn on the cob:

Is it safe to microwave frozen corn on the cob?

Yes, you can microwave frozen corn on the cob. Follow the same steps as you would for fresh corn, but add an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

How long does it take to cook corn on the cob in the microwave?

This will depend on the size, freshness, and amount of corn you’re cooking, as well as your microwave’s wattage. In general, you’ll want to microwave one ear of corn on high for about 3-5 minutes, and two ears for 5-7 minutes. If you’re cooking more than two ears at once, you’ll need to add an extra minute or two per ear.

How do I know when the corn is done cooking?

Check the kernels periodically by using tongs or a fork to pull back the husks. The kernels should be plump and tender, but not mushy or mealy. Don’t overcook the corn, as this can make it dry and tough.

Can I add seasoning or butter to the corn before microwaving it?

Yes, you can add seasoning or butter to the corn before microwaving it to enhance the flavor. Try brushing it with olive oil and sprinkling it with herbs, spices, or salt.

Is microwaved corn on the cob as good as boiled or grilled corn?

While microwaving corn on the cob is a quick and convenient option, it may not be as flavorful as boiled or grilled corn. However, if you use fresh, high-quality corn and add seasoning or toppings, it can still be delicious.

Conclusion

Microwaving corn on the cob is a great option for anyone who wants a quick and convenient way to enjoy this classic summer dish. By following some simple steps and guidelines, you can achieve great results that are both delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re enjoying the corn on its own or using it in creative recipes, microwaving is a versatile cooking method that can save time and effort compared to traditional methods.