How Long Do You Cook Corn on the Cob on Charcoal Grill?
Written By James Morgan
Summertime is synonymous with backyard barbecues, sunny afternoons, and the tantalizing aroma of grilled food. For many barbecue enthusiasts, grilling isnt merely a way to cook; it's an art form. Corn on the cob is a staple barbecue side dish that both beginners and seasoned grill masters absolutely adore. But, one of the most frequently asked questions is, 'How long do you cook corn on the cob on charcoal grill?' Let's dig deep into this question and uncover all the juicy details.
Why Grill Corn on the Cob?
The simplicity of grilling corn on the cob might seem deceptive, but the smoky flavor that charcoal imparts to this humble vegetable is unmatched. Its healthy, flavorful, and a definite crowd-pleaser. Besides, grilled corn can be a versatile dish, fitting right in at family picnics or upscale backyard parties.
If you're wondering how long to grill corn on the cob, the typical time frame is usually around 15 to 20 minutes. The real secret lies not just in the timing, but in the preparation and the method you use to grill.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/faw-charcoal-grills-test-sns-slow-sear-original-kettle-22in-rkilgore-52-bf0d22a10dd74b019161b7f2551fe542.jpeg)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepping Your Corn
Start with fresh corn on the cob. Ensure the husks are green, and the silk at the top is slightly sticky to the touch. Remove the silk but keep the husks intact. Soak the corns in a pot of water for about 15-30 minutes. Soaking is essential as it prevents the husks from burning during the grilling process.
2. Setting Up Your Charcoal Grill
Lighting up a charcoal grill is a skill in itself. Arrange the charcoal briquettes in a pyramid shape and use a lighter fluid or lighter cubes to ignite the coals. Once the coals turn ashy white, spread them out evenly. This usually takes about 15 minutes. For a detailed guide on setting up your grill, click here.
3. Grilling the Corn
Place the soaked corn with the husks directly on the grill grates. Cook them for about 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they grill evenly on all sides. You will know the corn is done when the husks are charred, and if you gently peel them back, you should see golden, juicy kernels.
4. Adding a Twist
If you'd like to add some flavor, brush the grilled corn with garlic butter, sprinkle with cheese, or even a bit of chili powder. Check this for more grilling inspirations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the Soak
As mentioned earlier, soaking the corn is critical. If you skip this step, you might end up with burnt husks and undercooked corn.
Direct Heat
Grilling corn directly over high heat can cause the kernels to cook unevenly. Always keep the heat medium to avoid burning the corns exterior while leaving the insides undercooked.
Not Turning the Corn
Make sure to keep turning your corn as it grills to ensure even cooking on all sides.
Pro Tips for Perfect Grilled Corn
Use compound butter. Whether it's garlic, herb, or cheese butter, it can elevate the flavor of your grilled corn.
If you're cooking a large batch, wrap the corn in foil to ensure even cooking.
Add a squeeze of lime and sprinkle of cilantro after grilling for a zesty finish.
External Resources
For further grilling details and tips, visit Girl Carnivore.
FAQ
1. How do I keep the corn moist while grilling?
Soaking the corn before grilling helps keep it moist by providing a little steam cushion inside the husk.
2. Can I grill corn without the husks?
Yes, you can. However, using husks offers extra protection and enhances the flavor profile.
3. Is there a difference between grilling with husks vs. without husks?
Grilling with husks can give your corn a smokier, richer flavor, and it helps protect the kernels from direct heat.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
