Sweet Corn Season Has Arrived in Otsego County, New York
It's time for sweet corn in Otsego County! It's been an absolutely wild growing season, and the corn this year looks amazing. How do you pick and cook the perfect ear? Read on for more!
Picking and preparing sweet corn is a delightful process that enhances its natural sweetness and flavor. The first step is selecting the freshest ears. When picking sweet corn, look for ears that have bright green, tightly wrapped husks and moist, golden-brown silks. The kernels should be plump and milky when gently pressed with a fingernail. Fresh corn is best picked early in the morning when the sugar content is highest.
Once you've selected your sweet corn, it's time to prepare it. Start by shucking the corn, which involves removing the husks and silks. This can be done by peeling away the outer leaves and pulling off the silks. Rinse the ears under cold water to remove any remaining silk strands. For boiling, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, add a pinch of salt, and then place the ears in the water. Boil for 5-7 minutes, or until the kernels are tender.
For grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the corn with olive oil or melted butter and place it directly on the grill grates. Turn the corn occasionally until all sides are charred and tender, about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can leave the husks on, soak the ears in water for 15 minutes, and grill them for a slightly smoky flavor.
Sweet corn can also be roasted in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the husked corn on a baking sheet, and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. No matter the method, serve sweet corn with a pat of butter, salt, and a sprinkle of pepper for a delicious, summertime treat.