Grilled corn in foil is a tasty and easy way to enjoy summer flavors. With just a few simple steps, you can have sweet, smoky corn ready in no time. Whether you’re grilling for a family barbecue or a cozy dinner, this recipe makes fresh corn shine. I’ll guide you through ingredients, tools, and grilling tips to lock in flavor and impress your guests. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients Needed
– 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 lime, zested and juiced
– 1/4 cup grated cotija cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Aluminum foil
To make grilled corn in foil, you need fresh corn. Look for sweet, tender ears at the store. Husk the corn and remove all the silk. Next, use softened butter to add flavor. Mix in chili powder, smoked paprika, lime zest, and a bit of salt and pepper. This mix makes the corn taste amazing.
I love to add toppings after grilling. Cotija cheese adds a salty kick. Fresh cilantro gives a bright touch. A squeeze of lime juice at the end is a must. It brightens every bite!
Suggested Tools and Equipment
– Grill
– Aluminum foil
– Mixing bowl
You will need a grill to cook the corn. Preheat it to medium-high heat. Use aluminum foil to wrap each ear of corn tightly. This keeps the steam in and cooks the corn evenly. A mixing bowl helps you combine the butter and spices easily. Having these tools ready makes the process smooth and fun!
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps to enjoy this tasty dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Corn
– First, husk the corn. Remove all the green leaves and silk. Rinse the ears under cold water. This keeps your corn clean and fresh.
– Next, prepare the seasoned butter. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, the zest of 1 lime, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients blend well. This butter adds a great taste.
Wrapping and Grilling
– Now it’s time to wrap the corn in foil. Lay out four sheets of aluminum foil. Place one ear of corn in the center of each sheet. Spread a good amount of the seasoned butter over each ear. Squeeze half of the lime juice on top.
– Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Place the foil-wrapped corn directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and grill for about 15 to 20 minutes. Turn the corn occasionally. This makes sure it cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors.
Serving the Grilled Corn
– When the time is up, carefully unwrap the corn. Be careful of the hot steam that escapes. Using tongs, remove the corn from the foil.
– To finish, sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese and fresh chopped cilantro on top. Drizzle a bit more lime juice for extra zest. Now your grilled corn is ready to enjoy!
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Flavor
To make your grilled corn really pop, try different butter mixtures. I love mixing unsalted butter with chili powder and smoked paprika. This combo adds a nice kick. You can also try a garlic butter mix. Just blend butter, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. For a twist, mix in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
Want something sweet? Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the corn before grilling. This gives a nice contrast to the savory flavors. You can even add a sprinkle of cheese for a rich taste.
Grilling Techniques
The right grill temperature is key. Set your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. This helps the corn cook evenly. Place the foil-wrapped corn directly on the grates.
Make sure to turn the corn every five minutes. This ensures every side gets that beautiful char. You want your corn to be tender but not mushy.
With these tips, you’ll have delicious grilled corn that everyone will love. Want to check the full recipe? Look for the Grilled Corn Fiesta!
Variations
Different Flavor Combinations
You can spice up your grilled corn in many ways. One fun option is to add jalapeños. These peppers give the corn a nice heat. Simply chop a few jalapeños and mix them into the butter. Spread this mix on the corn before wrapping it up. You will love the kick!
Another tasty choice is to make sweet corn. You can drizzle honey or maple syrup over the corn. This adds a lovely sweetness that balances well with the savory butter. Just remember to add these sweeteners before wrapping the corn in foil.
Dietary Alternatives
If you follow a vegan diet, don’t worry! You can still enjoy grilled corn. Use plant-based butter instead of regular butter. It works just as well and tastes great. Find a plant-based option with a flavor you like.
For those who need gluten-free meals, this recipe is already a winner. All the ingredients are gluten-free. Just make sure your toppings, like cheese, are also gluten-free. Enjoy your delicious meal without worry!
For the full recipe, check out the Grilled Corn Fiesta recipe above.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After you finish enjoying your grilled corn, let it cool first. This helps keep the flavor and texture. Wrap each ear in plastic wrap or foil. You want to seal it tight to keep out air. Place the wrapped corn in a container. A sturdy plastic or glass container works best. This keeps the corn fresh and tasty.
Reheating Techniques
To reheat corn, the grill is the best choice. Just unwrap the corn and place it back on the grill. Heat it for about 5-7 minutes. Turn it occasionally to warm it evenly.
If you prefer using an oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the corn on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
You can also use a microwave. Just place the corn on a plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second bursts until warm. Each method keeps the corn moist and delicious. Enjoy your grilled corn again!
FAQs
How long do I grill corn in foil?
Grill corn in foil for 15-20 minutes. This time helps the corn cook well. The heat makes the corn tender and juicy. It is best to turn the corn every 5 minutes. This way, it cooks evenly.
Can I grill corn without foil?
Yes, you can grill corn without foil. Grilling corn directly on the grill gives it a smoky flavor. You should husk the corn and soak it in water first. Soaking helps keep the corn moist. Grill it for about 10-15 minutes, turning often. The kernels will char nicely, but they may dry out faster.
What can I add to grilled corn for extra flavor?
You can add many toppings to grilled corn. Here are some popular choices:
– Crumbled cotija cheese
– Chopped fresh cilantro
– Lime juice
– Chili powder
– Smoked paprika
– Garlic powder
– Hot sauce
Feel free to mix and match. You can also try adding ingredients like jalapeños for heat or honey for sweetness. These toppings make your grilled corn even more tasty. For the full recipe, check out the Grilled Corn Fiesta.
Grilling corn is simple and tasty. Fresh corn, butter, and seasonings are key. You learned to husk, wrap, and grill it with care. Use the tips for flavor and grilling techniques to get the best results. You can try different flavor mixes or dietary options, too. Store leftovers properly for another meal. Enjoy your grilled corn adventure and impress your friends at the next cookout!
