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There's no denying that corn on the cob is a summer staple. At the height of the season, it’s a treat to nibble on those crunchy kernels bursting with sweetness. Not to mention, it’s one of those corn side dishes that pair well with practically any summer dinner or cookout you have planned. Plus, it cooks up really fast, which is what you want on a hot night.
There are two main ways to cook corn on the cob: grilling and boiling. You really can’t go wrong either way! You just have to know how long to boil corn on the cob so you get a perfectly crisp and tender bite. It actually takes just a few minutes! When you're ready to cook, shuck the corn by removing both the husks and silks, and set a pot of water to boil.
Once you know how long it takes to boil corn, you can discover all the fun ways to serve it. Load it up with The Pioneer Woman’s spicy bacon butter, crumbled cheese, or your favorite seasonings like chili powder. You can enjoy your freshly boiled corn in a dozen different ways!
How Long Do You Boil Corn on the Cob?
It actually takes less time than you might think: Boil the water first, then add the corn. For safety, use tongs to lower each cob into the water so there's no splashing. Once the water returns to a boil, set your timer and boil for two minutes. The kernels will be tender but still crunchy.
If you prefer the kernels to be softer, cook them for up to four minutes. But if you cook it for much longer, the corn will start to get mushy. Corn is properly cooked when the kernels turn a vibrant color and look visibly plump. You can also pierce a kernel with a knife or fork. It should give very little resistance.
Should You Salt the Water When Boiling Corn?
Do not salt the water to boil corn. Adding salt will draw moisture out of the kernels. Instead, if you want to boost the flavor with salt, sprinkle it on the kernels just before you eat them. You can also use salted butter, which is a classic win-win flavor combo for corn.
Why Is My Corn Still Hard After Boiling?
If your corn is still hard, tough, or even chewy after it’s boiled, it can be a result of two factors. For one thing, you may have overcooked your corn. Set a timer to ensure your corn doesn’t boil for too long. Another reason might be the corn's freshness. Since corn is a summer vegetable, you'll often find loads of it piled up at farm stands. Look for local corn, when possible, and be sure to know how to choose the sweetest corn, even when the husk is on.
