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Boiled corn on the cob is one of the simplest and most delicious summer treats. But did you know that boiling too long can make it tough, while under-cooking leaves it starchy? Here’s the foolproof way to cook sweet corn perfectly every time.
đź›’ Ingredients
- 4–6 fresh corn cobs, husked and silk removed
- Water (enough to cover the corn in your pot)
- 1–2 teaspoons sugar (optional, enhances sweetness)
- Salt (to taste, but add after cooking to avoid toughness)
- Butter (for serving)
👩‍🍳 Instructions
- Prepare the corn
Husk the corn and remove as much silk as possible. Rinse under cool water. - Boil the water
Fill a large pot with enough water to fully cover the corn. Bring it to a rolling boil. - Optional flavor boost
Add 1–2 teaspoons of sugar to the boiling water. Avoid adding salt at this stage—it can toughen the kernels. - Cook the corn
Gently place the corn cobs in the boiling water. Cover the pot and let the water return to a boil.- For fresh, young sweet corn → boil for 3–5 minutes.
- For larger or slightly older corn → boil for 6–8 minutes.
- Serve immediately
Remove the corn with tongs, drain well, and serve hot with butter, salt, and any favorite seasonings.
🌟 Tips for Perfect Corn
- Don’t overcook! More than 10 minutes of boiling can make corn chewy.
- Keep cooked corn in warm water for up to 10 minutes if you’re not serving immediately.
- For extra flavor, brush with melted butter mixed with herbs, garlic, or Parmesan.
✅ Perfect every time: Boil corn for 3–8 minutes depending on freshness, and you’ll always have juicy, tender, sweet corn on the cob.