How To Grill Corn On The Cob Over Charcoal For Perfect Results

To grill corn on the cob over charcoal, soak the corn in water for about 15 minutes, then place it directly on the hot coals or grill grate. Turn occasionally until the kernels are tender and slightly charred, about 10-15 minutes. Use tongs to handle the hot corn safely, and enjoy the smoky, sweet flavor right off the grill.

Cooking corn over charcoal is a fantastic way to infuse it with smoky flavor and achieve perfectly charred kernels. Start by soaking the corn in water to prevent burning and to keep it moist. Prepare your charcoal grill, making sure the coals are hot and evenly spread. Place the corn directly on the grill, turning every few minutes until it’s tender and has beautiful grill marks. This simple method enhances the natural sweetness of the corn while adding a delicious smoky aroma that’s perfect for summer barbecues or outdoor gatherings. Whether you prefer it with butter, spices, or simply salted, grilled corn on the cob over charcoal is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to master and irresistibly tasty.

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How to grill corn on the cob over charcoal

Selecting Fresh Corn for Grilling

Choosing the right corn is the first step to a tasty grilled experience. Look for fresh ears with bright green husks and moist silk. The kernels should be plump, firm, and creamy-colored without any dark spots or shriveling.

Preparing the Corn Before Grilling

You have two options: grilling with the husk on or off. For husked corn, peel back the husks carefully, remove the silk, rinse the corn and pat dry. If you prefer husked corn, simply shuck and clean the ears thoroughly.

Soaking Corn for Better Grilling Results

Soaking corn in cold water for about 15 minutes helps keep the kernels moist during grilling. This prevents burning and enhances the sweet, juicy flavor. For added flavor, consider adding herbs or spices to the water, such as chili flakes or garlic.

Preparing the Charcoal Grill

Start with a clean grill to prevent sticking and unwanted flavors. Light your charcoal using a chimney starter or lighter cubes, avoiding lighter fluid that can leave a chemical taste. Allow the coals to burn until they are covered with a light gray ash, which signals they are ready.

Setting Up the Grill for Direct and Indirect Heat

Arrange the coals to create a hot zone and a cooler zone. For direct heat, position some coals directly beneath the corn. For indirect heat, move the coals to one side of the grill. This setup allows for better control and prevents burning.

Controlling the Temperature for Perfect Grilling

Ideal grilling temperature for corn is around 350°F to 400°F. Use a grill thermometer or observe the heat by holding your hand above the grill for a few seconds—if it’s too hot or too cold, adjust the airflow or move the corn to different zones.

Grilling Corn with Husks On

If you keep the husks on, place the corn over indirect heat. Cover the grill to steam the corn, turning every 5 to 7 minutes for about 15 to 20 minutes in total. This method produces tender, flavorful corn with a smoky hint.

Benefits of Grilling with Husks

Husks act like a natural steamer, trapping moisture and flavors inside. This technique prevents the kernels from drying out and allows for easy handling of the hot corn after grilling.

Grilling Corn with Husks Off

Remove the husks and silk, then brush the ears with butter or oil for added flavor. Place the ears directly on the hot grill grate over direct heat, turning every 2 to 3 minutes. Grill for about 10 to 15 minutes, until kernels are tender and slightly charred.

Flavor Enhancements During Grilling

Add flavor by brushing corn with melted butter, olive oil, or your favorite marinade. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, herbs, or spices such as paprika, cumin, or chili powder for a spicy touch.

Monitoring the Corn While Grilling

Watch for charring and avoid burning the kernels. Turn the corn regularly to get an even, golden-brown crust. If some parts start to blacken excessively, move them to cooler parts of the grill.

Packing the Flavor with Foil Wrap

For enhanced moisture and flavor, wrap corn tightly in aluminum foil with butter, herbs, or seasoning before placing it on the grill. Cook over indirect heat for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Using Skewers to Grill Corn

Thread corn cobs onto metal or soaked wooden skewers for easier handling. This method provides control over turning and prevents the ears from rolling or falling apart.

Timing and Testing for Doneness

Corn should be tender when pierced with a fork or skewer. Look for bright, caramelized spots and a sweet aroma. Use tongs to gently press the kernels; they should feel firm but give slightly.

Resting and Serving the Grilled Corn

Once cooked, remove the corn from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Brushing with additional butter or seasoning just before serving adds flavor and keeps the kernels juicy.

Additional Tips for Perfect Grilled Corn

• Experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or parmesan cheese.
• Use tongs to turn the corn to avoid piercing the kernels, which helps retain juices.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each ear enough space for even heat exposure.
• Maintain consistent temperature to prevent flare-ups and uneven charring.

Related Topics and Techniques

Infusing Smoke Flavor with Wood Chips

Add soaked wood chips such as hickory or mesquite to your charcoal for a more pronounced smoky taste. Sprinkle the chips directly on the hot coals or use a smoker box if available.

Pairing Grilled Corn with Other Barbecue Foods

Complement your grilled corn with steaks, chicken, or grilled vegetables. Bright flavors like lime juice or vinegar-based sauces also enhance corn’s natural sweetness.

Cleaning and Storing Leftover Corn

Wrap leftovers in foil or store in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat by placing in the oven or on the grill for quick, delicious leftovers.

Different Grilling Techniques for Corn

Try variations like charred corn salad, creamed grilled corn, or corn skewers for diverse and exciting dishes. Each technique emphasizes different flavors and textures.

Incorporating these tips and techniques will help you grill corn on the cob over charcoal like a pro. Whether you prefer husked or husk-off corn, controlling the heat and timing ensures a juicy, flavorful result every time. Experimenting with seasonings and different grilling methods can bring your outdoor cooking to new levels of enjoyment.

The BEST way to GRILL CORN on the COB | BBQ Butter | PK Grill (2021)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to prepare the charcoal for grilling corn?

Start by arranging the charcoal into a mound or a two-zone setup, allowing for an area with direct heat and an area with indirect heat. Light the charcoal and let it burn until it’s covered with a light gray ash, typically about 15-20 minutes. Spread the hot coals evenly to ensure consistent heat across the grill surface, which helps in cooking the corn evenly and preventing burning.

How can I ensure the corn gets a nice char without burning?

Keep the grill at medium-high heat and turn the corn frequently. Baste the corn with butter or oil before grilling to add moisture and prevent sticking. Position the corn over direct heat for about 2-3 minutes per side to achieve a char, then move it to indirect heat if it starts to brown too quickly. Turning the corn often allows for an even, smoky flavor and a appealing charred surface.

Should I leave the husks on or remove them when grilling corn?

You can grill corn with or without husks depending on your preference. Leaving the husks on provides a milder, steamed flavor, while removing them exposes the kernels to direct heat, giving a smoky and charred flavor. If you choose to keep the husks on, soak the ears in water for about 15 minutes beforehand to keep the husks moist and prevent burning. When removing husks, brush the kernels with butter or spices before placing them on the grill for enhanced flavor.

How long should I grill corn on the cob over charcoal?

Grill the corn for approximately 10-15 minutes, turning frequently to ensure even cooking. The corn is ready when the kernels appear tender and have a light charring. If the corn starts to burn or blacken excessively, move it to indirect heat or reduce the grilling time. Monitoring the corn closely helps you achieve the perfect balance of smokiness and tenderness.

What tips can help prevent the corn from drying out during grilling?

Brush the corn with butter or oil before placing it on the grill to maintain moisture. Keep the grill temperature moderate to avoid excessive drying and burning. Covering the corn with aluminum foil during grilling also helps lock in moisture. Turn the corn regularly to prevent hot spots and evenly distribute heat, ensuring the kernels stay juicy and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

To grill corn on the cob over charcoal, start by soaking the corn in water for at least 15 minutes. Preheat your charcoal grill until the coals are glowing red. Place the corn directly on the grill, turning occasionally for even charring.

Cook the corn for about 10-15 minutes until it develops a slight char and is tender. Remove the corn from the grill and let it cool slightly before serving.

In summary, grill corn on the cob over charcoal by preheating, turning regularly, and watching for that perfect char. Following these steps makes the process simple and ensures delicious results.