Corn on the cob is a favorite during the summertime, yet let’s face it – boiling it simply doesn’t bring out its full potential. Boiled corn somehow always falls short of delivering that luscious, sweet, and juicy flavor we truly desire. However, here’s a revolutionary alternative: cook your corn in a slow cooker instead.
This approach is not only more convenient but also amplifies the natural sweetness of the corn. The slow cooker delicately steams the kernels, sealing in the flavor and guaranteeing tender and vivid corn each time. And the cherry on top? You can personalize it with butter, salt, pepper, and even fresh herbs to create a truly delightful experience.
Ingredients:
To give this foolproof method a shot, you’ll require:
- 8 – 10 ears of corn
- 1/3 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- Unsalted butter (according to your taste preference)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- Fresh herbs or green onions (optional, to your liking)
Preparation:
- Prepare the Corn: Begin by placing the corn in your slow cooker. There’s no need to pre-boil or go through elaborate additional steps – just carefully lay the ears inside.
- Add Water: Pour 1/3 cup of water into the slow cooker. This modest quantity is sufficient to establish a steaming environment for the corn.
- Cook: Set your slow cooker to HIGH and let it perform its wonders for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. You’ll be able to tell the corn is cooked when it turns a bright yellow, is tender, and is bursting with juicy flavor.
- Season: Use tongs to gingerly remove the corn, and then season it to your heart’s content. Add a substantial dollop of butter, sprinkle on some kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, and finish with a dash of lemon juice to introduce a touch of zest. If you’re feeling creative, adorn it with fresh herbs or green onions to enhance the flavor even more.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the corn right away while it’s still warm and witness how everyone is astonished by its deliciousness.
Why the Slow Cooker Method is Exceptional:
- Enhanced Flavor: In contrast to boiling, which can drain the corn of its inherent sweetness, steaming in a slow cooker conserves and intensifies its flavor.
- Hands-Free Cooking: Once the corn is in the slow cooker, you can attend to other matters, making it ideal for hectic days or when you’re entertaining guests.
- Customizable Outcome: Whether you favor the traditional combination of butter and salt or a more sophisticated variation with fresh herbs, this method enables you to craft the perfect flavor combination.
Tips for Achieving Perfect Corn:
- Avoid Overcrowding: If your slow cooker is relatively small, cook fewer ears of corn at a time to ensure uniform steaming.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Try incorporating garlic powder, paprika, or grated Parmesan for a novel take on the classic.
- Use Fresh Corn: For the optimal results, select fresh, in-season corn. The fresher the corn, the sweeter and juicier it will taste.
Bid farewell to lackluster boiled corn once and for all. By using this straightforward slow cooker technique, you’ll transform your corn on the cob into a gourmet delight.
How to cook corn in a slow cooker?
Are there any seasonings that can enhance the flavor of slow-cooked corn?
Can I use other cooking methods to make corn more flavorful?