Introduction
Corn on the cob is a quintessential summer side dish that everyone loves. However, cooking it perfectly can be a challenge, especially if you’re short on time. With the help of a microwave, you can enjoy perfectly cooked corn on the cob in just a few minutes. In this article, we will guide you on how long to microwave corn on the cob so you can enjoy this delicious dish in the comfort of your own home.
The Ultimate Guide to Microwaving Corn on the Cob: How Long Should You Cook It?
The average cooking time for corn on the cob in the microwave is around 4-6 minutes, but this depends on several factors. Before microwaving corn on the cob, you need to check your microwave’s wattage and the number of ears you plan to cook. For instance, if your microwave wattage is 1100, it will take about 4 minutes to cook two ears of corn. However, if you are planning to cook four ears on a 700-watt microwave, you will need to cook them for 8-10 minutes.
If you’re unsure about how long to microwave corn on the cob, you can refer to the table below to determine the cooking time based on your microwave wattage and the number of ears you’re cooking.
| Microwave Wattage | 1 Ear | 2 Ears | 3 Ears | 4 Ears |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 600-700 | 3-4 min | 6-8 min | 9-12 min | 12-16 min |
| 800-900 | 2-3 min | 4-6 min | 6-9 min | 8-12 min |
| 1000-1100 | 1-2 min | 3-4 min | 4-5 min | 6-8 min |
5 Foolproof Methods for Microwaving the Perfect Corn on the Cob
There are several ways to microwave corn on the cob, and each has its benefits and drawbacks. Here are five foolproof methods for microwaving your perfect corn on the cob:
- The Wet Paper Towel Method: Start by wrapping the corn on the cob in a damp paper towel, then place it in the microwave and cook on high for 4-5 minutes. This method keeps the corn moist and prevents it from getting tough.
- The Butter Method: Rub a stick of butter on the corn’s kernels, then wrap it in plastic wrap and microwave for 3-4 minutes. This adds a delicious buttery flavor to the corn and helps it cook evenly.
- The Husk Method: Leave the husks on the corn and microwave for 3-5 minutes, depending on the number of ears. This method allows the corn to steam inside the husks, resulting in sweet, juicy corn that’s easy to eat and flavor.
- The Foil Method: Wrap the corn in aluminum foil and microwave for 4-6 minutes, depending on the number of ears. This is a simple, fuss-free method that produces perfectly cooked corn on the cob with little clean-up.
- The Water Method: Fill a microwave-safe dish with water and place the corn in it. Microwave for 4-5 minutes, or until the corn is cooked through. This method steams the corn, preventing it from drying out and producing deliciously tender corn on the cob.
When it comes to seasoning your corn on the cob, the possibilities are endless. You can add salt, pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, butter, cheese, or any other topping you prefer.
Cooking Corn on the Cob in the Microwave: Tips and Tricks for Best Results
Here are additional tips and tricks for microwaving corn on the cob:
- If possible, remove the husks and silk before microwaving the corn. This makes the cooking process more efficient and ensures the corn heats evenly.
- If you’re using frozen corn on the cob, you can microwave it without thawing it first. Just cook it for 4-5 minutes, or until it’s hot and tender.
- Be careful when removing the corn from the microwave. It will be hot, and some methods, such as the husk method or foil method, can produce steam that can burn you. Use oven mitts or a towel when handling the corn.
- For a delicious twist, try seasoning your corn on the cob with Cajun seasoning or Old Bay seasoning. These seasonings add a burst of flavor to the corn and are perfect for summertime cookouts or barbecues.
From Frozen to Delicious: Microwaving Corn on the Cob in Under 5 Minutes
If you’re short on time, but craving a delicious corn on the cob, you can microwave it from frozen. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by placing the frozen corn on the cob in a microwave-safe dish and add a couple of tablespoons of water.
- Wrap the dish with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 4-5 minutes.
- Remove the plastic wrap carefully, as steam may escape, and check the corn’s doneness. It should be hot and tender.
- Add your favorite seasoning or topping and enjoy!
One Simple Trick to Microwaving Corn on the Cob: Hack Your Way to Easy Summer Sides
One surprisingly simple trick to microwaving corn on the cob is to add a splash of milk to the water you use for steaming. This simple addition makes the corn taste sweet and adds a creaminess that’s reminiscent of freshly boiled corn. Give it a try, and you just might be amazed at the difference!
Quick and Easy Corn on the Cob: Microwave vs. Stovetop Cooking Showdown
While microwaving corn on the cob is quick and easy, some people prefer to cook it on the stovetop. Here’s how the two methods compare:
- Time: Microwaving corn on the cob is much faster than cooking it on the stovetop. If you’re short on time, microwaving is the way to go.
- Taste: Many people believe that cooking corn on the stovetop produces better-tasting corn on the cob. However, this can be subjective, and it ultimately depends on your preferences.
- Cleanup: Microwaving corn on the cob produces less mess and requires less cleanup than cooking it on the stovetop.
- Quantity: If you need to cook a large number of ears of corn, cooking on the stovetop may be more practical. Most microwaves can only accommodate 4 ears at a time.
Conclusion
Microwaving corn on the cob is a quick and easy way to enjoy this beloved summertime dish. With a little bit of know-how, you can cook perfectly tender and flavorful corn on the cob in just a few minutes. Whether you use the wet paper towel method, the butter method, or any other technique, don’t be afraid to experiment with seasoning and toppings to create your perfect corn on the cob.
