Shirley's Perfect Steamed Corn on the Cob Every Time!

Shirley's Perfect Steamed Corn on the Cob Every Time!

Ingredients

  • 12 ears corn

    husked

  • water

    2-inch in your pot

  • 2 tablespoons salt

Directions

  1. 1

    Husk corn. Set aside.

  2. 2

    Put 2" of water in the bottom of a lg. pot big enough to hold all your corn. Add salt to water.

  3. 3

    Place large plate or steamer in bottom of pan.

  4. 4

    Put corn into the pan, whole or cut in half, and stack vertically (up and down) with the stems at the bottom.

  5. 5

    Put the cover on, and bring water to a boil.

  6. 6

    Once water comes to a boil, steam the corn for 15 minutes, keeping cover on.

  7. 7

    Keep an eye on the water, and if it starts to boil out, add more to keep at around 2" so water doesn't evaporate.

  8. 8

    Remove corn from pot with tongs, and put on a serving plate.

  9. 9

    Cover with aluminum foil, until ready to eat.

  10. 10

    Serve with lots of butter and sprinkle with salt, to taste.

Shirley's Perfect Steamed Corn on the Cob Every Time!

Shirley's Perfect Steamed Corn on the Cob Every Time!

5.0(64)

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Based on 64 ratings

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5.0(64 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Nothing quite signals the arrival of warmer days and backyard gatherings like a perfectly cooked ear of corn on the cob. Shirley's Perfect Steamed Corn on the Cob Every Time! promises just that – reliably tender, sweet, and bursting with flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Why This Steamed Corn Recipe Works

The beauty of Shirley's method lies in its elegant simplicity, harnessing the power of steam to gently cook each kernel. This approach ensures every ear is cooked evenly, avoiding dry or waterlogged spots, and locking in the corn's natural sweetness. The precise amount of salt added to the steaming water subtly enhances the corn's inherent flavors, creating a truly memorable bite without overpowering it.

What to Expect

Prepare for truly tender kernels that pop in your mouth, juicy and sweet with every bite. You'll find the natural sugars of the corn are perfectly balanced by the slight salinity from the cooking water, creating a delightful eating experience that's both comforting and incredibly fresh. Each ear will emerge vibrantly yellow, hot, and ready for your favorite toppings.

Customization & Variations

While Shirley's recipe delivers perfection as is, feel free to personalize your steamed corn at the table. Classic butter is a must for many, but a sprinkle of chili lime seasoning, a dash of smoked paprika, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can elevate the flavors. For a vegetarian meal, simply serve as a delicious and satisfying side.

Serving & Context

This timeless steamed corn on the cob is the quintessential side dish for any summer barbecue, picnic, or family dinner. Its vibrant color and simple, comforting taste make it an instant crowd-pleaser, perfect alongside grilled meats, fresh salads, or a hearty main course.

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