Introduction
Transform humble corn on the cob into a sweet and juicy summer delight with this super-easy microwave method! Forget boiling – this recipe delivers perfectly cooked corn in minutes, leaving you more time for fun in the sun. It’s the perfect side dish for any barbecue or a simple, satisfying snack.
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s incredibly fast and convenient, yet delivers surprisingly delicious results. Microwaving retains the corn’s natural sweetness and moisture, resulting in tender kernels with a satisfying bite. Cleanup is a breeze, too!
Key Ingredients
- 🌽 2 ears of fresh corn on the cob, husks removed
- 💦 2 tablespoons of water
Instructions
1️⃣ Place the corn on the cob in a microwave-safe dish.
2️⃣ Add 2 tablespoons of water to the dish. This helps steam the corn and keeps it moist.
3️⃣ Microwave on high for 3-5 minutes (depending on your microwave’s power and the size of the corn), turning halfway through. The corn is done when the kernels are tender. You can test by gently pressing on a kernel – it should feel tender and not hard.
4️⃣ Carefully remove the corn from the microwave using oven mitts or a thick towel as the dish will be hot.
5️⃣ Let the corn cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, add a pat of butter 🧈 and a sprinkle of salt 🧂 to the corn after cooking.
- If your corn is particularly large, you may need to add an extra minute or two of cooking time. Always check the corn for doneness after the minimum cooking time.
Heat Control
The key to perfectly cooked microwave corn is to avoid overcooking. Start with the shorter cooking time, checking for doneness, and add more time in 30-second increments until it’s tender to the touch. Overcooked corn will be mushy.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe focuses on tender, juicy kernels, you can achieve a slight crunch by adding a little less water and cooking for a minute shorter. Experiment to find your preferred texture.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For even cooking, use corn that’s roughly the same size.
- If you don’t have a microwave-safe dish, you can wrap the corn in a damp paper towel before microwaving.
Storage Tips
Leftover corn is best enjoyed within a day or two. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat it in the microwave for a minute or two, or enjoy it cold.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This isn’t typically a giftable item in its prepared form, but you could gift a basket with fresh corn and a recipe card for this microwave method!
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Corn: Add a pinch of chili powder 🌶️ or cayenne pepper to the water before microwaving.
🌟 Cheesy Corn: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese 🧀 over the cooked corn.
🌟 Herby Corn: Add fresh herbs like cilantro🌿 or chives before serving.
🌟 Lime Corn: A squeeze of fresh lime juice 🍋 adds a zesty twist.
Troubleshooting
- Corn is too dry: Add more water next time.
- Corn is too tough: Microwave for longer, checking frequently.
- Corn is burnt: Reduce cooking time and/or remove from the microwave earlier.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen corn? This recipe is best for fresh corn, but you can try it with frozen corn, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
- How do I know when the corn is done? The kernels should be tender when pressed gently.
- Can I cook more than two ears at once? Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. It’s best to cook in batches for best results.
- What kind of corn is best? Sweet corn is ideal for this recipe.
Conclusion
This microwave corn on the cob recipe is a game changer! It’s quick, easy, and delivers delicious results every time. Share this recipe with your friends and family, and enjoy the sweet taste of summer! Don’t forget to rate this recipe on RateMyRecipes.com and let us know how you like it!
Microwave Corn on the Cob: Ready in Minutes!
A quick and easy method to prepare delicious corn on the cob in the microwave, perfect for a summer side dish.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husked and cleaned
- 1 tablespoon butter, optional
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Place each ear of corn on a microwave-safe plate.
- Step 2: Cover the corn with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
- Step 3: Microwave on high for 3 to 5 minutes, turning the corn halfway through cooking.
- Step 4: Carefully remove the plate from the microwave (it will be hot) and let cool for a minute before handling.
- Step 5: Optional: Spread butter over the corn and sprinkle with salt before serving.
Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding spices or herbs to the butter before spreading it on the corn.
- If you have multiple ears of corn, you can cook them all at once, just make sure they fit in the microwave.