Choosing the best corn for grilling
When preparing BBQ grilled corn, selecting the right ears of corn is essential for achieving the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and char. The best corn for grilling is fresh, in-season sweet corn, ideally sourced from a local farmer’s market or produce stand. Look for ears that are firm and plump, with tightly wrapped green husks and moist, golden-brown silk at the top. Avoid corn with dry or browning husks, as this can indicate age or poor storage.
For optimal flavor and juiciness, choose corn that was harvested within the last 24 hours. If you’re unsure of the freshness, gently peel back a small section of the husk to inspect the kernels. They should be tightly packed, shiny, and milky when pierced. Yellow or bi-color varieties tend to be sweeter and are excellent choices for grilling.
Another consideration is whether to grill the corn with the husk on or off. Corn grilled in the husk steams in its own moisture, resulting in a tender, juicy bite with a subtle smoky flavor. On the other hand, husked corn placed directly on the grill grates develops a deeper char and caramelization, enhancing its natural sweetness. Both methods are delicious, and the choice depends on your desired texture and flavor profile.
Before grilling, soak corn in the husk in cold water for 15–20 minutes to prevent burning and to help steam the kernels during cooking. If you prefer to grill without the husk, remove it completely and lightly brush the corn with oil or melted butter to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
Step-by-step grilling instructions
Grilling corn on the BBQ is a simple yet rewarding process that brings out the natural sweetness of the kernels while adding a smoky, charred flavor. Whether you’re using a gas or charcoal grill, the key is to manage heat and timing carefully to avoid overcooking or burning the corn.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of fresh sweet corn, husked or in husk (depending on preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chili powder for seasoning
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–450°F). If using charcoal, allow the coals to burn down until they are covered with white ash for even heat distribution.
- Prepare the corn: If grilling with the husk on, soak the ears in cold water for 15–20 minutes to prevent burning. If grilling without the husk, remove it completely and brush each ear with olive oil or melted butter. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like.
- Grill the corn: Place the corn directly on the grill grates. For husked corn, turn every 2–3 minutes to ensure even charring on all sides. Total grilling time is about 10–12 minutes. For corn in the husk, grill for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the husks are charred and the kernels are tender when pierced with a knife.
- Check for doneness: The kernels should be tender and slightly browned or charred in spots. If grilling in the husk, carefully peel back a section to check the kernels. Use tongs or heat-resistant gloves to avoid burns.
- Serve immediately: Once grilled, remove the corn from the grill and let it rest for a minute or two. If desired, brush with additional butter or oil and sprinkle with more seasoning before serving.
Grilled corn is best enjoyed hot off the grill, but it can also be cooled and used in salads, salsas, or as a side dish for your favorite BBQ mains.
Toppings and flavor variations
Once your corn is perfectly grilled, the real fun begins—customizing it with a variety of toppings and flavor combinations to suit any palate. Whether you prefer classic simplicity or bold, global-inspired flavors, there are endless ways to elevate your BBQ grilled corn.
Classic Toppings:
- Butter and Salt: A timeless favorite. Brush hot corn with melted butter and sprinkle with sea salt for a rich, savory finish.
- Herb Butter: Mix softened butter with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Parmesan Cheese: After buttering, sprinkle with finely grated Parmesan for a salty, umami-rich topping.
Bold and Spicy Variations:
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Slather grilled corn with a mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice. Sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder, and chopped cilantro.
- Smoky Chipotle: Combine melted butter with chipotle powder or adobo sauce. Brush over corn and top with a squeeze of lime and a dusting of smoked paprika.
- Buffalo Style: Toss grilled corn in a mixture of melted butter and hot sauce. Serve with crumbled blue cheese and chopped green onions.
Sweet and Savory Options:
- Honey Butter: Blend softened butter with honey and a pinch of cinnamon. Brush over warm corn for a sweet twist.
- Maple Bacon: Drizzle with maple syrup and top with crispy crumbled bacon for a sweet-savory combo.
- Coconut Lime: Brush with coconut oil, sprinkle with toasted shredded coconut, and finish with lime zest.
Tips for Applying Toppings:
- Apply toppings while the corn is still hot to help them melt and adhere better.
- Use a pastry brush or spoon to evenly distribute sauces and butters.
- For cheese or crumb toppings, press gently onto the corn to help them stick.
- Serve toppings buffet-style so guests can customize their own ears of corn.
Experimenting with different toppings not only enhances the flavor of your grilled corn but also adds a fun, interactive element to your BBQ spread. Whether you’re going for rustic charm or gourmet flair, there’s a topping combination to match every occasion.