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How to Boil Corn on the Cob

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Good corn on the cob starts with selecting good, sweet corn. Uncooked, the kernels on the corn would range from pale yellow to milky white. The yellow kernels should get brighter once cooked.

Cooking corn on the cob by boiling is fast and easy. Just don't overcook it!

Just follow these steps:

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Use enough water to submerge the corn, although the corn will float.

  2. Shuck the corn! That means removing the husk and excess silk.

  3. Add the corn to the boiling water, and cover.

  4. Let the corn boil from 1 to 10 minutes, depending on how soft you like it. At DamnGoodRecipes.com, we recommend about 4 minutes.

  5. Remove corn from the boiling water and drain it. Let it cool for a bit before handling, and then serve.

  6. Rolling the corn on a stick of butter is a popular way to dress it. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper, if desired.

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Beth on 2023-05-04

Some say cover your boiling corn some say DO NOT COVER! What's the difference?

ArchiesBoy on 2013-06-20

Suggestions: Boil the corn (at least the yellow kind) until it turns a rich golden color.

Use cob holders. 

Run a stick of butter over the hot cob, *then* sprinkle with salt so it will stay put!

Anonymous User on 2012-09-23

I do sort of pre-plan meals since we very seldom eat out. Lucky for me my faimly is very easy to please so it is not a struggle for me. If you have a slow cooker you should try using it. You would be surprised how simple you can make "the meat" of your meal in it. I think if you give DJ 2 choices ahead of time and he picks one then you will have something to work with instead of trying to figure out what to make at the last minute. It is actually tricking him since he thinks he gets to choose from the two options you give him. If all else fails you just mnake him eat what is on his plate!

Maya J. on 2012-08-25

Good advice. I boiled mine for the recommended 4 minutes but didnt cover it.  The corn came out fine.