Getting corn from the cob is a basic yet satisfying task that brings out the essence of summertime. Whether you intend to grill, boil, or use it in various dishes, knowing how to efficiently extract those golden kernels will enhance your culinary experiences. This article, will show you how to get corn from the cob.
Needed Equipment
- Fresh cobs of maize
- A keen blade
- A chopping block
- A basin or dish
- Bundt Mold
How To Get Corn From The Cob
1. Choose Fresh Corn
When purchasing corn on the cob, search for ripe and fresh kernels. The husk must be green, securely wrapped around the kernels, and slightly tacky. This indicates that the sweetness and flavor of the corn are at their optimum.
2. Remove The Cob
- Remove the husk and silk first to prepare the maize for kernel extraction. The green, leafy outer layer of maize is the husk.
- To accomplish this, grasp the maize by the top (where the husk is attached) and pull the husk toward the base.
- This should remove the majority of the hull and reveal the kernels.
- Use your fingers or a small brush to remove any remaining silk fibers, which can adhere to the kernels.
3. Protect the Corn
- You have a couple of options for securing the corn to make the process of cutting the kernels from the cob simpler and safer:
- Hold the cob in a vertical position on a solid chopping board. Hold the maize steady with one hand by grasping the top, and use the other hand to cut the kernels.
- You can also arrange the corn horizontally on the cutting board. This technique provides a stable flat surface.
4. Use A Bundt Pan
A bundt pan is the most effective method for removing corn from the stalk without scattering kernels throughout the kitchen.
- With the pan right-side-up as if you are about to fill it with pound cake batter, simply position the cob tip in the hole in the center of the pan.
- Once the corn is in position, cut straight down the side with a sharp knife, rotating the cob until you are left with a bare ear of corn. The bowl-shaped pan will capture all of the kernels neatly.
- Don’t waste the corn milk after you’ve removed all the kernels, particularly if you’re making chowder, corn soup, or just want to add more flavor to a dish. Run the back of your knife carefully down the cob and allow the liquid to drain into the basin.
5. Lay It Flat on A Cutting Board
If you don’t have a bundt pan, you can arrange the corn flat on your cutting board to prevent movement from the vegetable or your knife.
- Cut off the stem end of the ear while the cob is horizontal on the cutting board, then stand it upright and slowly and carefully remove the kernels from one side.
- Place the cob of corn, flat side down, on the cutting board and position the knife perpendicular to the cob.
- Shave the length of the cob, beginning at whichever end is most comfortable for you, with the knife point and blade facing away from your body.
- Continue rotating the cob until all kernels have been extracted. The kernels should tumble to the sides as they separate.
6. Place A Sheet Pan Beneath
Place a small cutting board within a sheet pan with raised edges to collect the cut kernels.
- Lay the cob on its side and remove one end. This generates a flat surface for cutting stability.
- Place the ear of corn, cut side down, on the cutting board and secure it at the top.
- Like the bundt pan method, steadily slice downward along each side of the cob while rotating it until all kernels have been removed. (You can also place a paper towel underneath the cob to prevent it from sliding while you carve it.)
Use Or Store
You can now use your fresh maize kernels in many different ways. They can be used in salads, soups, stews, and sautes. If you’re not going to use the kernels right away, put them in a clear jar and put them in the fridge for a few days. You can put them in a tight freezer bag and freeze them to keep them longer.
Mastering the discipline of removing corn from the cob can unlock a universe of culinary opportunities. You can appreciate the summer’s flavors with a few simple techniques and prepare delectable dishes featuring the sweet, golden kernels. So, roll up your sleeves and collect some fresh corn, because we’re about to embark on a corny adventure!
Thanks for reading.
