What To Know
- Place corn in the basket and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
- Place corn in the basket and steam for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
- Add cooked corn to salads for a sweet and crunchy touch.
Corn on the cob is a summer staple, but who wants to wait hours for it to cook? The answer: cook it ahead of time! This blog post will explore the ins and outs of cooking corn on the cob ahead of time, ensuring you have perfectly cooked corn whenever you need it.
Benefits of Cooking Corn on the Cob Ahead of Time
- Time-saving: Pre-cooking corn saves time when you’re ready to eat.
- Convenience: Have cooked corn on hand for quick meals or snacks.
- Meal prepping made easy: Prepare corn ahead of time for busy weekdays.
- Reheating is a breeze: Corn reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers.
Choosing the Right Corn
For optimal results, choose fresh, sweet corn with tightly packed kernels. Avoid corn with brown or damaged kernels.
Cooking Methods for Pre-Cooking Corn
Boiling
1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add corn and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
3. Drain and let cool.
Steaming
1. Fill a steamer basket with water.
2. Place corn in the basket and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
3. Remove from heat and let cool.
Microwaving
1. Wrap corn in a damp paper towel.
2. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes per ear.
3. Let cool before unwrapping.
Storing Cooked Corn
- Refrigerator: Store cooked corn in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked corn for up to 6 months. To freeze, wrap individual ears in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating Techniques
Boiling
1. Bring a pot of water to a boil.
2. Add cooked corn and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
Steaming
1. Fill a steamer basket with water.
2. Place corn in the basket and steam for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
Microwave
1. Wrap cooked corn in a damp paper towel.
2. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes per ear.
Tips for Perfect Pre-Cooked Corn
- Cook corn just until tender to prevent overcooking.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove corn from boiling water to avoid waterlogging.
- Let corn cool before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
- Reheat corn thoroughly before serving.
Creative Uses for Pre-Cooked Corn
- Salads: Add cooked corn to salads for a sweet and crunchy touch.
- Soups and stews: Use cooked corn as a hearty addition to soups and stews.
- Tacos and burritos: Fill tacos and burritos with cooked corn for a flavorful filling.
- Grilled corn salad: Grill pre-cooked corn and combine with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro for a refreshing salad.
- Corn salsa: Puree cooked corn with tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños for a spicy and sweet salsa.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: How long does pre-cooked corn last in the refrigerator?
A: Cooked corn lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I freeze pre-cooked corn?
A: Yes, you can freeze cooked corn for up to 6 months.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat pre-cooked corn?
A: Boiling or steaming is the best way to reheat pre-cooked corn.
