How To Boil Corn on the Cob

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If you’re not exactly sure how to boil corn on the cob, you’ve probably got a bunch of questions. Things like, how long do you boil corn? Should you salt the water first? How do you know when boiled corn on the cob is ready? We’re answering all these questions and more so you can cook perfectly juicy, sweet, tender corn on the cob confidently every time!

4 ears of boiled corn on the cob laying on a white oval platter on a woven placemat.

🌽 What Makes This Method So Good

If you’re a fan of corn, then knowing how to boil corn on the cob is absolutely crucial! OK, maybe not crucial, but still. It’s one basic cooking method you’ll definitely want in your arsenal.
Boiled corn sounds pretty simple, and it is! But not in a “bland, boring, boiled vegetable” sort of way. The simple method for how to boil corn on the cob brings out the natural juiciness and sweetness of the corn kernels in maybe the easiest, fastest way possible. This is quite possibly the best way to cook fresh corn on the cob.

🌽 How to Choose Fresh Corn

There are a few things to look for when it comes to choosing the very best corn on the cob to boil, but it’s not complicated at all! Whatever you do, don’t unwrap the husks to check the corn inside. It’s not necessary, and it leaves the corn in less-than-desirable condition for other shoppers.

Instead, look for these clues on the outside of the cornhusks to get an idea of what’s inside.

The cornhusks should be bright green and a little wet. If they’re yellowed or dry, or if they have any brown spots or little holes, keep looking for better options.
The silks should be light brown and feel a little sticky. Avoid any ears of corn with dark brown or black silks, or silks that feel really dry or brittle.
Gently squeeze the corn, working your way from one end to the other, to make sure the kernels feel firm and plump. If you feel any soft spots, or if you find any areas that are missing kernels, put that one back and try again.

🌽 How to Shuck Fresh Corn

Part of the process of how to boil corn on the cob perfectly is to shuck the fresh corn. There’s really not any prep for this recipe besides that, and thankfully, even that is super easy.

Grab the cornhusk with both hands at the top of the ear, where the silks are, and separate the husk into two halves. The halves don’t need to be equal, so don’t worry if they’re different sizes.
In one swift motion, pull both halves of the cornhusk down to the bottom of the ear, revealing the corn inside. If the husk doesn’t pull down cleanly, that’s totally fine. Just go back and pull down any pieces that didn’t cooperate.
Pull the husk all the way off the bottom of the ear of corn. Snap off the leaves and silks at the base of the corn and throw them away.
Go back and clean up the corn on the cob, picking off any pieces of silks that may’ve gotten left behind. It’s ok if you can’t get them all, but try to get as much as you can.

If you have ears of corn that are particularly stubborn and difficult to shuck, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes to loosen them up a little.

4 ears of raw, shucked corn on the cob on a neutral table with a cloth napkin.

👩🏼‍🍳 Chef’s Tips

For the best, most tender corn, use plain, unsalted water. Boiling corn in salted water can actually make the kernels tough and hard. You’ll have much tastier corn on the cob if you boil it in unsalted water, then add salt to taste before serving.
Corn starts to lose its sweetness as soon as it’s picked. If you’re not sure how to boil older corn on the cob to get good results, don’t worry. This method still works! You can add 2-3 tablespoons of sugar to the water before bringing it to a boil. The added sugar can help revive a little of that sweet flavor. Also, depending on the age of the corn, you may need to boil it for 10 minutes or more, as opposed to 3-5 minutes for fresh corn.
One other important thing to remember when it comes to how to boil corn on the cob perfectly – keep a close eye on it! Corn cooks pretty quickly, which means it’s easy to overcook. Overcooked corn can be gummy, mushy, or chewy, and can lose a lot of flavor.

🧈 Flavor Variations

Now that you know how to boil corn on the cob, the next step is deciding how to dress up your corn on the cob! Believe it or not, corn is surprisingly versatile. A few of my favorite flavors & toppings include…

Melted butter, salt, and pepper
A mixture of butter, mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice for a little Mexican street corn flair
Melted butter mixed with Tajin
Melted butter mixed with a squeeze of lime juice and a little chipotle powder or chili powder
A dash of hot sauce or sriracha
Melted butter mixed with ranch seasoning
Diced crispy bacon
Mayo mixed with finely minced garlic and powdered parmesan cheese
A pat of garlic herb compound butter

💬 Frequently Asked Questions

How long do you need to boil corn?

Fresh corn only needs to boil for roughly 3-5 minutes! For older ears of corn, you may need to boil them as long as 10-12 minutes.

How do you tell when corn is done boiling?

You’ll know the corn is ready when it’s a rich, bright yellow color and the kernels are nice and tender.

Do you salt the water when you boil corn on the cob?

You’ll find a lot of conflicting info on this one, but generally, no. You shouldn’t salt the water when you boil corn. Boiling corn in salted water can dehydrate the corn and make it tough.

Do you boil corn in milk or water?

Another source of corn-y conflict. Some people suggest boiling corn in milk, or in water with a little milk added, to bring out the sweetness in the corn and to make the corn buttery. I don’t find it necessary, though.

Close-up of 4 ears of boiled corn on the cob topped with melty butter.

🌽 Some of Our Favorite Corn Recipes

Recipe By: Cheryl Malik