How Long to Boil Corn

Cyd Converse

Wondering how long to boil corn? We know the answer!

Crisp-tender, sweet, juicy corn on the cob is one of life’s simplest pleasures. Shucking fresh corn is like unwrapping a present.

This editor hails from the Midwest, where corn on the cob is a staple all summer long and into the fall. We only buy canned or frozen corn in the winter.

Mexican Street Corn Photo

So, knowing how to boil corn on the cob is a mandatory skill, where I’m from. Here’s what to do.

How to Shuck Corn

  • Peel off the outer green leaves, until there is one layer of green leaves left on the corn.
  • Peel away a little of the remaining leaves, until you can see the top kernels.
  • While holding the bottom of the corn with one hand, use your other hand to grasp the stringy fibers at the top, along with the leaves, and pull straight down, all the way to the bottom.
  • Grab the leaves and base of the corn and snap them off.
  • Pull off most of the silky fibers on the corn.
  • Use a vegetable brush to brush off any remaining fibers while holding the corn under cold, running water.
Mexican Street Corn Pic

How to Boil Corn

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, using enough water that the corn will be submerged.
  2. Add shucked corn using tongs; be careful not to splash! Allow the corn to boil for 5-7 minutes.
  3. Remove the corn from the water and allow to cool for several minutes before handling.
Mexican Street Corn Image

How Long to Boil Frozen Corn

Boil frozen corn on the cob for seven minutes, then use a fork to check if it’s tender enough.

Slow Cooker Corn on the Cob Pic

How to Cut Corn off the Cob

Stand the shucked corn up, and holding it with one hand, use a sharp knife in the other hand to slice the corn kernels off the cob. If you have a Bundt or tube pan, it’s helpful to stand the corn, pointy side up, on the center hole and slice off the kernels into your pan.

If you don’t have a Bundt or tube pan, you can turn a small bowl upside down and place it in the middle of a larger bowl. Stand your corn on top of the smaller bowl while you slice off the kernels.

Slow Cooker Corn on the Cob Photo

Storing Corn on the Cob

Keep raw corn on the cob refrigerated for up to three days. Once it’s cooked, refrigerate leftovers for 3-5 days. You can freeze corn on the cob or the kernels for up to 8 months.

Slow Cooker Corn on the Cob Image
Slow Cooker Corn on the Cob Picture

Corn Recipes:

Cyd is a native of Upstate New York, born to a family of women who love to cook and host parties. She shares her love of all things food, home and entertaining on her blog, The Sweetest Occasion and on Instagram.

Corn Recipes

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