One of my most-liked vegetables to cook over an open pit is creamy and dewy corn on the cob. When you roast corn, you obtain the best balance of ideally dewy inside and the outside is browned. But now that the atmospheric conditions have cooled and formally said bye to my meal cooked outdoors for the season, do I literally need to say bye to the best oven roasted corn on the cob? No, you don’t need a roast to achieve those best browned, roasted marks. Oven-roasted corn with garlic cream is absolutely what you want.
Sweet, fresh corn is a favorite addition to salads, soups, and pasta in the summer. Whether white or yellow, sweet corn is so crisp and soft that it may be cut straight from the cob and added to meals without being cooked. Of course, grilled corn on the cob is always a delight, but with our Oven Roasted Corn on the Cob recipe, you can get the same delicious flavor without lighting up the grill.
Flavored butter is a simple method to enhance the flavor of your food. Remove the husks and silks from the corn before cutting it off the cob. Place the corn on a broad chopping board, standing it up. Cut straight down across the base of the kernels with a sharp knife. For a light summer supper, toss the kernels into soups, salads, and salsas.
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The Appeal of Oven Roasted Corn
Oven roasted corn is an absolute delight due to its crisp and slightly charred exterior, which complements the sweet, juicy kernels inside. The roasting process enhances the corn’s natural sweetness, creating a unique flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
- Fresh corn on the cob
- Butter
- Salt
- Your choice of seasonings
Preparing the Corn
Selecting Fresh Corn
When selecting fresh corn, look for ears with green, tightly wrapped husks. These husks should feel plump and have a healthy green color. Check that the kernels are well-filled and plump. The silk should be minimal and not too dry. Fresh corn with vibrant husks and plump kernels ensures a flavorful end result when oven roasting.
Shucking the Corn
To shuck the corn, start by peeling back the husks gently, keeping them attached at the base of the corn. Carefully remove the silk strands, ensuring the kernels remain intact. Shucking is the process of preparing the corn for roasting by removing the outer husks and silk, leaving the kernels ready for seasoning and cooking.
Seasoning Options
You have various seasoning options for roasted corn. A classic choice is to slather the corn with butter and sprinkle it with salt for a savory flavor. For a zesty kick, consider mixing chili powder and lime zest. Alternatively, combine grated Parmesan cheese with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a savory and aromatic twist. These seasonings add a burst of flavor to your roasted corn.
Classic Butter and Salt
For a classic roasted corn experience, generously coat the corn with creamy butter and sprinkle it with a pinch of salt. This simple combination enhances the natural sweetness of the corn and creates a savory delight that’s sure to please your taste buds.
Spicy Chili-Lime
To give your roasted corn a spicy and tangy twist, try a delightful mixture of chili powder and zesty lime zest. This seasoning combination adds a kick of flavor to the sweet, roasted corn. The chili-lime blend creates a mouthwatering fusion of heat and citrusy freshness, making each bite an exciting and flavorful experience.
Parmesan and Herbs
Elevate your roasted corn with a delectable combination of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. This seasoning option imparts a savory and aromatic dimension to the sweet corn. The Parmesan adds a creamy richness, while the herbs provide a burst of freshness, resulting in a unique and irresistible flavor profile that will have you coming back for more.
The Roasting Process
The roasting process for corn offers three methods, each with its distinct appeal. You can roast the corn directly on the cob over an open flame for a charred flavor. Grilling on a barbecue infuses a smoky essence with appealing grill marks. Oven roasting, a convenient indoor option, involves wrapping the corn in foil and baking it until tender and flavorful. These methods allow you to savor roasted corn with various delightful characteristics.
Cooking on the Cob
Cooking corn on the cob directly over an open flame, such as a grill or stovetop burner, is a delightful method that imparts a charred, smoky flavor. To do this, leave the husks on and roast the corn until the outer layers char, giving the kernels a unique, slightly crispy texture. The open flame method offers a rustic and savory way to enjoy your roasted corn.
Grilling Method
Grilling your corn on a barbecue is a popular and flavorful method. The open flame infuses a smoky essence, and the grill marks add to its appeal. To grill, shuck the corn, brush it with your choice of seasoning, and place it directly on the grill grates. Turning it occasionally, you’ll achieve a beautifully charred and smoky flavor that elevates the taste of the corn. Grilling is a favorite method for those who love that distinct smokiness in their roasted corn.
Oven Roasting
Oven roasting is a convenient indoor method for making delicious roasted corn. Preheat your oven and wrap the shucked corn in foil. Place the foil-wrapped corn in the oven, and let it roast until it’s tender and flavorful. This method ensures even cooking and infuses the corn with a subtle sweetness, making it an excellent choice when you want to savor roasted corn without an open flame.
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Enjoying Your Roasted Corn
Once your roasted corn is perfectly cooked, serve it hot to enjoy the flavors at their best. The crispy, slightly charred exterior complements the sweet, juicy kernels inside. Whether as a side dish, a snack, or part of a meal, savor the burst of flavors and the delightful texture that oven-roasted corn offers. Be sure to enjoy it while it’s fresh and at its peak deliciousness.
Health Benefits of Roasted Corn
Roasted corn not only delights your taste buds but also offers health benefits. It’s a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The roasting process preserves nutrients better than boiling, making it a nutritious choice. Additionally, the flavors and textures of roasted corn can encourage a higher consumption of this healthy vegetable, providing valuable nutrients for your body.
Conclusion
In conclusion, oven roasted corn is a simple yet delightful dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you prefer it classic with butter and salt or explore various seasonings, the result is always a burst of flavor that captures the essence of summer. So, next time you have fresh corn on hand, give oven roasted corn a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
FAQs
Roasted corn is relatively healthy as it retains its nutrients better than boiling. It’s a good source of fiber and various vitamins and minerals.
Absolutely! You can roast corn on the cob directly over an open flame, such as a stovetop burner or even a campfire.
You can get creative with seasonings like chili-lime, Parmesan and herbs, garlic butter, or even a combination of your favorite spices.
It typically takes around 20-25 minutes to roast corn in the oven at 375°F (190°C).
