It’s Barbecue Season! Baste corn with bursting flavor – cover with husk and grill outdoors
Oh the pleasure of summer corn! Luckily fresh corn is available year-round, and in Spring it’s here – shipped from warmer climates with it’s husk on. Side dishes have become creative and an interesting way to add vibrance to the same old home cooked dinner menus. Think of how restaurants now have a category of just “Sides”! I admit, I look at these listings first before ordering – many times it’s the heart of a kitchen… and I love interesting vegetable preparations.
Grilling corn in its husk keeps the corn kernels pump and juicy, while imparting a gentle smokey essence. Read the recipe and discover how simple it is to pull back the husk, remove the silk and slather with a flavorsome, savory Tomato Basil Butter. This creates a bit of steam inside the husk – simply delicious! Pop on the hot grill and cook until nicely charred on the exterior – the corn will not overcook, but remains a vibrant yellow color with crunch.
In the heat of Summer I search out certified organic farmers to purchase non-GMO corn. I suggest you speak with the grower, as they are happy to explain the corn seeds they use. Some farmers’ markets, such as New York’s Greenmarket ban the intentional use of GMOs. General Mills has started to reformulate and produce Cheerios cereal claiming it will be GMO-free (cornmeal is an ingredient, cornstarch and sugar too.) After public concerns, the company would like to go with the “wholesome image” – hence the new labeling on boxes of Cheerios. Corn does provide many health benefits, has a high fiber count and provides many vitamins and minerals. Cooking corn actually increases the amount of usable antioxidants.
Corn is sweet and satisfying and a perfect addition to a balmy summer barbecue. Try it grilled in the husk for stellar results, unwrap the flavor!
