Cooking Corn on the Cob in the Oven: A Delicious and Easy Method

While raw corn on the cob is a popular and refreshing way to enjoy this summer vegetable, cooking it can also bring out a range of delicious flavors and textures. One of the easiest yet most satisfying methods is to cook it in the oven. This technique ensures that the corn is evenly cooked throughout while the flavors of the garlic, butter, and herbs permeate through the kernels. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking corn on the cob in the oven, using a simple yet tasty garlic butter method.

Ingredients and Equipment

4 ears of corn on the cob 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened 3 cloves of garlic, minced 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste) 4 pieces of aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

To begin, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt in a small bowl. Mix the ingredients until they are well combined and the flavors are well distributed. This mixture will be used to season the corn once it’s wrapped in the foil packages.

Step 2: Wrap the Corn in Foil

Preheat your oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6 (392F/356F fan). Then, for each ear of corn, cut a piece of aluminum foil large enough to accommodate it completely.

Place an ear of corn on each piece of foil. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the butter mixture onto each ear of corn. Make sure to spread it evenly to make sure the whole ear is coated with the garlic butter mixture.

Once the butter mixture is evenly distributed, carefully fold the sides of the foil over the ears of corn, sealing the edges to form pouches. This step is crucial as it will help the heat distribute evenly and create an ideal cooking environment where the corn can steam, resulting in tender and flavorful kernels.

Step 3: Bake the Corn

Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of the corn cobs and the heat of your oven. To ensure that the corn is perfectly cooked, you can use a fork to check if the kernels are tender. If they are still a bit firm, continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Alternatively, you can cook the corn on a barbecue grill over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, until the kernels are tender. Remember to occasionally flip the packets to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the corn is cooked, it’s time to serve! Carefully open the foil packets to allow any steam to escape. The garlic butter mixture should be evenly distributed and have seeped into the corn kernels, giving them a delicious flavor.

Enjoy your perfectly cooked corn on the cob, whether you're having a barbecue, a summer picnic, or simply enjoying a tasty side dish during a weeknight meal. This method is not only easy but also versatile, as you can add other herbs, spices, or even cheese to the butter mixture to create different flavor profiles.

Alternatives and Tips

While the oven method is a great way to cook corn on the cob, there are other methods you can try if you want to switch things up sometimes. For example, many people prefer to boil the corn, which takes around 5 minutes. However, this method can sometimes result in less flavorful corn. Alternatively, grilling is also an excellent option, especially during the summer months when the grill is in full use.

If you're looking for additional ways to add flavor to your corn on the cob, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving. Both of these additions can enhance the overall flavor of the corn and make your meal even more delicious.

Conclusion

Cooking corn on the cob in the oven using a garlic butter method can be a delightful and delicious experience. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy tender, flavorful corn that is perfectly cooked to your liking. Whether you're having a backyard barbecue, a summer picnic, or simply looking for a tasty side dish, this method guarantees a perfect ending to your meal. Give it a try, and let us know how you enjoyed the recipe. Happy cooking!