Quick and Easy Microwave Corn on the Cob Recipe

Corn on the cob is a beloved side dish that brings a touch of sweetness and comfort to any meal. While traditional methods like boiling, steaming, or grilling corn certainly have their merits, there’s a faster, more convenient alternative that delivers equally delicious results: microwaving. This quick cooking method transforms fresh corn into a tender, juicy delicacy in just minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you simply don’t want to heat up your kitchen with a pot of boiling water.

Did you know you can microwave corn on the cob, creating a perfectly cooked side dish in just five minutes? Well, you can! This simple technique requires minimal preparation and cleanup, allowing you to enjoy fresh corn without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for one or preparing a quick side for the family, microwave corn on the cob offers convenience without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Can You Really Microwave Corn on the Cob?

Yes! Microwaving corn on the cob is an incredibly easy way to prepare corn more quickly than traditional methods, such as on the stove or on the grill. Many home cooks are surprised to discover that microwave corn can be just as delicious as corn prepared using conventional cooking techniques. The microwave method rapidly steams the corn in its own moisture, preserving its natural sweetness and resulting in kernels that are tender yet still have that satisfying crisp bite.

With just an ear of corn, a wet paper towel, and a microwave, you can have a great vegetable side dish ready in just five minutes. This method is particularly useful when:

• You’re cooking for just one or two people
• You’re short on time
• You don’t want to heat up your kitchen with a pot of boiling water
• You’re looking for a simple cooking method with easy cleanup

Benefits of Cooking Corn in the Microwave

The microwave method for corn on the cob offers several advantages over traditional cooking techniques:

• Speed – Ready in just 3-5 minutes versus 8-10 minutes for boiling
• Energy efficiency – Uses less electricity than heating a large pot of water
• Flavor preservation – Corn doesn’t lose flavor to cooking water
• Nutrient retention – Quick cooking preserves more nutrients
• Minimal cleanup – No pots or pans to wash

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick side dish, a college student with limited cooking facilities, or simply someone who appreciates efficiency in the kitchen, microwave corn on the cob is a technique worth mastering.

Essential Ingredients and Tools

One of the beauties of this recipe is its simplicity. You’ll need just a few basic items:

• Fresh ears of corn
• Paper towels
• Water
• Microwave-safe plate
• Microwave oven

Optional ingredients for serving include:

• Butter or margarine
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh herbs (like chopped parsley or chives)
• Seasonings of your choice (paprika, garlic powder, etc.)

How to Microwave Corn on the Cob: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps to prepare perfect microwave corn on the cob every time:

Preparation

1. Select fresh ears of corn with bright green, tightly wrapped husks and golden-brown silk. The kernels should be plump and tightly packed.
2. Remove the husk and silk completely from each ear of corn. You can do this by peeling back the husk and pulling off all the stringy silk fibers. Rinse briefly under cold water if needed.
3. Dampen a paper towel by running it under the faucet, then wring it out so it’s moist but not dripping.

Cooking Process

1. Wrap the moist paper towel completely around the ear of corn, covering it from end to end.
2. Place the wrapped corn on a microwave-safe plate. If cooking multiple ears, arrange them in a single layer with some space between each ear.
3. Place the plate in the microwave and cook on high power.
4. Microwave until the kernels are tender but still crisp when poked with a knife, approximately 3 to 5 minutes for a single ear. Add about 2 minutes of cooking time for each additional ear if cooking multiple ears simultaneously.

Serving

1. Carefully remove the plate from the microwave using oven mitts or pot holders, as it will be hot.
2. Let the corn rest for 1-2 minutes before unwrapping.
3. Carefully remove and discard the paper towel before serving.
4. Season as desired with butter, salt, pepper, or your favorite corn toppings.

How Long to Cook Corn on the Cob In the Microwave

The cooking time for microwave corn on the cob varies depending on several factors, including the size of the ear, the power of your microwave, and the number of ears being cooked simultaneously. Here’s a general timing guide:

If you follow this recipe, a medium ear of fresh corn should be perfectly cooked in three to five minutes. For best results, start with the minimum time and check for doneness. You can always add more time if needed. The corn is done when the kernels are tender when pierced with a knife but still have a slight crispness to them.

Alternative Microwave Methods

While the paper towel method described above is quick and effective, there are a few other ways to microwave corn on the cob:

Cooking Corn in the Husk

This method allows the corn to steam in its own natural wrapper:

1. Leave the corn completely intact with husks and silk.
2. Place the ear directly in the microwave (no plate necessary).
3. Microwave on high for 4 minutes per ear.
4. Let rest for 2 minutes after cooking.
5. Cut off the bottom end of the corn (the stem end).
6. Grasp the top of the husks and silk, and shake gently. The corn should slide out completely clean, leaving all silk behind!

This method has the advantage of naturally removing all the silk in one easy step, which many cooks find convenient.

Plastic Bag Method

Another popular approach:

1. Shuck the corn and remove all silk.
2. Wrap each ear in a damp paper towel.
3. Place all ears into a large zip-top bag, but don’t seal the bag.
4. Microwave on high for approximately 2 minutes per ear.

Tips for Perfect Microwave Corn

To ensure your microwave corn on the cob turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Choose fresh corn – Look for bright green husks and plump kernels. Fresh corn contains more natural moisture, which helps it steam properly in the microwave.
• Don’t skip the moisture – The damp paper towel is essential as it creates steam that cooks the corn evenly.
• Adjust cooking time – Microwave power varies, so you may need to adjust cooking times. Start with less time and add more as needed.
• Let it rest – Allow the corn to rest for 1-2 minutes after microwaving to finish the cooking process and avoid burns.
• Test for doneness – Corn is perfectly cooked when kernels are tender but still have a slight bite to them.
• Handle with care – The corn and steam will be very hot, so use caution when removing from the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

While perfectly cooked microwave corn is delicious with just a sprinkle of salt and a pat of butter, there are many creative ways to elevate this simple side dish:

Classic Butter Variations

• Herb Butter – Mix softened butter with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil
• Honey Butter – Blend honey into softened butter for a sweet contrast
• Garlic Butter – Add minced garlic or garlic powder to butter for extra flavor
• Chili Lime Butter – Combine butter with lime zest, lime juice, and a pinch of chili powder

Global Flavor Inspirations

• Mexican-Style – Brush with mayonnaise, sprinkle with cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice
• Italian-Style – Drizzle with olive oil and top with grated Parmesan and fresh basil
• Asian-Style – Brush with sesame oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds and a touch of soy sauce

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover corn on the cob, you can store and reheat it:

• Refrigeration – Store cooked corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days
• Reheating – To reheat in the microwave, wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-60 seconds until heated through
• Freezing – While possible, freezing cooked corn on the cob can affect its texture. If freezing, consider cutting the kernels off the cob first

What Users Are Saying

This microwave method has earned praise from many home cooks who appreciate its simplicity and effectiveness. As reviewer v1234 commented, “Very impressive. I followed the directions exactly, and the corn turned out great. Thanks for such a quick and easy way to make corn!!”

Many users report that this method produces corn that’s just as delicious as traditional cooking methods but with significantly less effort and time investment. The consistent results and easy cleanup make it a go-to technique for corn lovers looking for convenience without compromise.

Other Microwave Cooking Ideas

Once you’ve mastered microwave corn on the cob, you might be interested in exploring other foods that cook surprisingly well in the microwave. The convenience and speed of microwave cooking make it perfect for quick side dishes and simple meals. Consider trying:

• Steamed vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans
• Baked potatoes (regular or sweet)
• Rice and other grains
• Poached eggs
• Mug cakes and other single-serving desserts

The microwave can be a versatile tool in your cooking arsenal, offering quick solutions for busy days without sacrificing quality or flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I cook frozen corn on the cob in the microwave?

A: Yes, you can microwave frozen corn on the cob. Place the frozen ear in a microwave-safe dish with a tablespoon of water, cover with plastic wrap or a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 4-6 minutes, turning halfway through.

Q: Is it better to microwave corn with or without the husk?

A: Both methods work well. Cooking with the husk intact helps steam the corn in its own moisture and makes silk removal easier. The paper towel method without husks allows for more even cooking and is faster for pre-husked corn.

Q: How can I tell if my corn on the cob is done cooking?

A: Perfectly cooked corn should have bright, plump kernels that are tender when pierced with a knife but still have a slight crispness to them. If the kernels are too firm, continue microwaving in 30-second increments until done.

Q: Can I microwave multiple ears of corn at once?

A: Yes, you can microwave multiple ears at once, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time. Add approximately 2 minutes for each additional ear of corn and arrange them in a single layer if possible.

Q: Does microwaving corn affect its nutritional value?

A: Microwaving actually preserves nutrients better than many other cooking methods because it cooks quickly and requires no water that could leach away water-soluble vitamins. It’s one of the best ways to maintain corn’s nutritional integrity.

Q: What if I don’t have paper towels?

A: If you don’t have paper towels, you can microwave corn in its husk (if it hasn’t been removed yet), place it in a microwave-safe container with a splash of water and cover, or wrap it in microwave-safe plastic wrap with a few drops of water.

Q: My corn dried out in the microwave. What went wrong?

A: Dry corn usually means either the corn wasn’t fresh to begin with, the paper towel wasn’t moist enough, or the corn was overcooked. Make sure your paper towel is damp and adjust cooking times for your specific microwave.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight side dish or looking for an effortless addition to your summer barbecue, microwave corn on the cob delivers consistent, delicious results with minimal effort. This simple yet effective cooking method proves that sometimes the easiest approach yields the best outcome, giving you more time to enjoy your meal and less time spent on preparation and cleanup.

Author

Shinta

 

Shinta is a biotechnologist turned writer. She holds a master's degree in Biotechnology from Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences and a PG Diploma in cellular and molecular diagnostics from Manipal University. Shinta realised her love for content while working as an editor for a scientific journal.

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