Introduction
Corn on the cob is a summer favorite, often enjoyed at barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings. This recipe elevates the simple pleasure of eating corn by infusing it with the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious side dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Let’s dive into the details!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 cups water
1 head garlic, halved crosswise
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
1½ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
1 cup whole milk
1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter
2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
6 ears corn, husks and silk removed
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
By following these simple steps, you will create a delectable dish that brings out the sweet, succulent flavor of fresh corn. Enjoy it as a side dish or a delicious addition to your summer meals!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
In a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat, combine 4 cups of water, the halved garlic head, 1½ teaspoons of kosher salt, and 1½ teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Step 2: Add Dairy and Sweetener
Stir in 1 cup of whole milk, 1 stick (8 tablespoons) of unsalted butter, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar (if desired). Bring the mixture back to a boil, ensuring that the butter melts completely and the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Cook the Corn
Carefully add the 6 ears of corn, with husks and silk removed, to the pot. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook the corn until it is just tender, which should take about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the pot. Garnish the corn with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh chives. Serve the corn immediately while it is warm.
Notes
Note 1: Adjusting Seasoning
Feel free to adjust the amount of kosher salt and black pepper according to your taste preference.
Note 2: Sweetness Adjustment
The addition of brown sugar is optional, and you can omit it if you prefer a less sweet flavor.
Note 3: Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a delicious summer side.
Note 4: Freshness of Corn
For the best flavor, use fresh corn that is in season. If using frozen corn, reduce the cooking time appropriately.
Note 5: Leftover Usage
Leftover corn can be cut off the cob and used in salads, soups, or as a topping for tacos.
Cook techniques
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking food in liquid at a low heat, just below boiling. In this recipe, the garlic, salt, and pepper are simmered to infuse flavor into the water before adding additional ingredients.
Infusing
Infusing is the process of extracting flavors from ingredients by allowing them to sit in a liquid. Here, garlic is halved and simmered, allowing its aroma and taste to penetrate the boiling water.
Blanching
Blanching is briefly boiling vegetables and then cooling them rapidly. In this case, you can consider the initial boiling phase for the corn as a technique to enhance color and flavor before the final simmering.
Garnishing
Garnishing refers to adding finishing touches to a dish. The use of chopped fresh chives adds brightness and a pop of color to the corn before serving.
FAQ
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?
Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as it may require less time to cook.
Is there a substitute for whole milk?
You can use half-and-half, cream, or a non-dairy milk alternative, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
What can I use instead of unsalted butter?
You may substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
How do I know when the corn is done cooking?
The corn is done when it is just tender to the bite. Check it around the 10-minute mark after adding it to the simmering pot.
Can I add other seasonings or spices?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings such as paprika, cayenne pepper, or fresh herbs to enhance the flavor.
Conclusion
This delicious corn recipe combines the sweetness of fresh corn with the richness of butter, milk, and the aromatic flavor of garlic. The optional addition of brown sugar enhances the sweetness, while the fresh chives provide a herbaceous finish. Perfect as a side dish or a stand-alone treat, this dish embodies comfort and celebration of seasonal produce.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Corn with Lime and Cheese
Enhance your corn experience by grilling the corn on the cob and then adding a sprinkle of lime juice and crumbled queso fresco for a tangy and savory twist.
Corn Chowder
Use the base of this corn recipe to create a creamy chowder by blending cooked corn with additional vegetables like potatoes and onions, and then stirring in some heavy cream.
Herbed Corn Salad
Cut the cooked corn off the cob and toss it with diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and a light vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing salad option.
Corn and Black Bean Salsa
Combine leftover corn with black beans, diced bell peppers, onions, and lime juice to make a zesty salsa that pairs well with chips or grilled meats.
Corn Fritters
Transform leftover cooked corn into fritters by mixing it with flour, eggs, and spices, then frying until golden brown for a tasty appetizer or snack.
