Simple great summer side has always been corn. If you’re a fan of corn, especially that on the cob, and have only enjoyed the yellow variety, I must insist that you try white corn. Sweeter and in my opinion, more flavorful. But no matter whether your loyalty lies on the yellow or the white, do yourself and your guests a huge justice and do not boil your corn. It will change and degrade the flavor and texture of this vegetable.
I always buy the ears of corn still in the husks when possible. During the season, you can find good deals at the local grocery stores almost consistently. This bunch was had for only 4/$1 at Safeway. My advice to you (and I have 20+ years at said grocery store, more than a few in the produce dept) is when you’re drudging through the pile of ears, look for those with the fattest bottoms, the ones with the most junk in the trunk. These tend to be healthier ones and to best tell without shucking it, is to peel back a little of the top of one of the leaves to expose some kernels. These at the tip are generally the first to dry up and go bad. Healthy top tip, usually yields a good whole ear. Why go into all this? Because I like to leave my corn in the husk until I’m ready to prepare it. It stays fresher and doesn’t dry out as fast.
Once I have removed the husk I prefer to slather on a layer of butter while on the foil that will eventually wrap it up and seal it in. I then add spices that I think will suit my palate this particular day. Today it was California Seasoned Pepper, Black and Red Spice (both from the Spice House) and a bit of Cayenne Pepper for heat.
Once it’s ready to go I wrap it up and twist off the ends to seal it up. It cooks in the butter (no need for the hot messy chore of spreading butter on it after) and lets the seasoning cook in .
From here, it’s on to the grill. it’s stays wrapped until I’m ready to eat it and it’s always great! Now you can do a light buttering and put it straight on the grill if you like, or steam it, but the point is no boiling. Try it and switch up your flavorings. Enjoy!