Is Corn On The Cob In The Microwave Healthy? Here’s The Truth!

Microwaving corn on the cob is a convenient and quick way to enjoy this summer staple. However, there are some safety concerns to be aware of when microwaving corn on the cob. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about microwaving corn on the cob, including the potential risks, how to do it safely, and some delicious recipes to try.

Potential Risks of Microwaving Corn on the Cob

One of the main concerns with microwaving corn on the cob is the potential for the corn to explode. This can happen if the corn is not properly vented, causing steam to build up inside the husk and burst it open. To avoid this, always make sure to pierce the husk of the corn in several places before microwaving.

Another potential risk is that the corn may not cook evenly in the microwave. This can lead to some parts of the corn being undercooked, while others are overcooked. To ensure even cooking, it is important to rotate the corn halfway through the cooking time.

How to Microwave Corn on the Cob Safely

To microwave corn on the cob safely, follow these steps:

1. Remove the husks and silk. Pull back the husks and remove the silk from the corn.
2. Rinse the corn. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Pierce the husks. Use a sharp knife or fork to pierce the husks in several places. This will allow steam to escape and prevent the corn from exploding.
4. Place the corn on a microwave-safe plate. Place the corn on a microwave-safe plate with the husks facing up.
5. Microwave on high power. Microwave the corn on high power for 3-5 minutes per ear, or until the corn is tender.
6. Rotate the corn halfway through cooking. After 1-2 minutes, stop the microwave and rotate the corn. This will help ensure even cooking.
7. Check for doneness. Insert a knife or fork into the corn to check for doneness. The corn is done when the knife or fork slides in easily.
8. Let the corn cool slightly before serving. Let the corn cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burning your mouth.

Delicious Microwave Corn on the Cob Recipes

Here are a few delicious recipes for microwaving corn on the cob:

Classic Butter and Salt Corn on the Cob

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of corn on the cob
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 1 teaspoon of salt

Instructions:

1. Follow the steps above to microwave the corn on the cob.
2. Once the corn is cooked, spread the butter over the corn and sprinkle with salt.
3. Serve immediately.

Mexican Street Corn

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of corn on the cob
• 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup of sour cream
• 1/4 cup of crumbled Cotija cheese
• 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
• 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt

Instructions:

1. Follow the steps above to microwave the corn on the cob.
2. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Cotija cheese, cilantro, chili powder, cumin, and salt.
3. Spread the mixture over the corn and serve immediately.

Garlic Parmesan Corn on the Cob

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of corn on the cob
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup of melted butter
• 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Instructions:

1. Follow the steps above to microwave the corn on the cob.
2. In a small bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, melted butter, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
3. Spread the mixture over the corn and serve immediately.

Tips for Microwaving Corn on the Cob

Here are a few tips for microwaving corn on the cob:

• Use fresh corn on the cob. Fresh corn on the cob will cook more evenly and have a better flavor than frozen corn.
• Pierce the husks thoroughly. Make sure to pierce the husks in several places to allow steam to escape.
• Microwave on high power. Microwaving the corn on high power will help to cook it quickly and evenly.
• Rotate the corn halfway through cooking. Rotating the corn halfway through cooking will help to ensure even cooking.
• Check for doneness before serving. Insert a knife or fork into the corn to check for doneness before serving.
• Let the corn cool slightly before serving. Let the corn cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burning your mouth.

How Long to Microwave Corn on the Cob

The amount of time it takes to microwave corn on the cob will vary depending on the wattage of your microwave and the size of the corn. As a general rule of thumb, microwave the corn on high power for 3-5 minutes per ear, or until the corn is tender.

Can You Microwave Corn on the Cob in the Husk?

Yes, you can microwave corn on the cob in the husk. However, it is important to pierce the husks in several places to allow steam to escape. Otherwise, the corn may explode.

Can You Microwave Corn on the Cob Without the Husk?

Yes, you can microwave corn on the cob without the husk. However, the corn may dry out more quickly. To prevent this, wrap the corn in a damp paper towel before microwaving.

Final Thoughts: Microwaving Corn on the Cob Safely and Deliciously

Microwaving corn on the cob is a quick and easy way to enjoy this summer staple. However, it is important to follow the safety guidelines above to prevent the corn from exploding or cooking unevenly. With a little care, you can microwave corn on the cob safely and deliciously.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I microwave corn on the cob without piercing the husks?
A: No, it is important to pierce the husks in several places to allow steam to escape. Otherwise, the corn may explode.

Q: Can I microwave corn on the cob in a plastic bag?
A: No, it is not safe to microwave corn on the cob in a plastic bag. The bag may melt and release harmful chemicals into the food.

Q: Can I microwave corn on the cob in a paper bag?
A: Yes, you can microwave corn on the cob in a paper bag. However, the bag may become hot and burn, so be careful when handling it.

Q: Can I microwave corn on the cob in the husk with butter?
A: Yes, you can microwave corn on the cob in the husk with butter. However, the butter may melt and make the husks soggy.

Q: Can I microwave corn on the cob in the husk with salt?
A: Yes, you can microwave corn on the cob in the husk with salt. However, the salt may not dissolve evenly and may make the corn salty in some spots.