Preparing fresh Michigan sweet corn
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The growing season for fresh Michigan sweet corn is here. Sweet corn is one of the most popular vegetables among adults and children. Besides its sweet flavor, it is full of many vitamins and minerals.
Sweet corn is a great source of vitamin B1, B5 and C, phosphorus, manganese, folate and fiber. Folate is effective in lowering the homocysteine levels in the body, which is an amino acid that can damage blood vessels.
Preparing sweet corn on the cob can be done in several different ways depending on how fast you want to eat and flavor of the corn. The three basic methods of cooking corn on the cob are microwave, boiling and grilling. The first steps are to remove the corn husks and silks. Pull back the husks until the ear of corn is completely exposed and using your fingers or vegetable brush, remove the silks. Now the corn is ready to prepare.
Microwave method: Wrap each prepared ear in damp paper towel. Place ears on a microwave safe plate or directly on the glass plate in the microwave. Lay each ear flat in a single row. Heat on high for two to six minutes. Cooking time will depend on the microwave temperature and how many ears you are microwaving at once. Check the corn after two minutes, if you can pierce the corn with a fork and liquid squirts out, it is done.
You can microwave corn on the cob with the husks left on. Peel back the husks, careful not to pull them off, clean off silks, soak the corn in water for one hour and then cook in the microwave until the fork can pierce the cob.
Boiling method: Discard corn husks and silk. Fill a large pot with water, making sure the water comes at least one-inch over top of the corn. Cover and bring to a boil, cooking for three to five minutes.
Grilled method: Remove husks and silk from corn. Spread olive oil over each ear of corn. Wrap individual ears with foil and pierce with fork. Grill over medium heat, turning frequently, every 15 to 20 minutes. You can also grill corn on the cob with the husks left on. Peel back the husks, careful not to pull them off, clean off silks, soak the corn in water for one hour, then place on the grill, turning frequently every 15 to 20 minutes.
For additional information on cooking and/or preserving fresh vegetables, contact your local Michigan State University Extension office or visit the Michigan Fresh page.
