Cooking corn on the cob doesn’t have to be complicated. With just two simple ingredients —corn and water—you can achieve perfectly sweet, juicy, and tender corn that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, prepping for a weeknight dinner, or simply craving a taste of fresh produce, this method is quick, easy, and foolproof. Let’s dive into this minimalist approach to cooking corn on the cob and enjoy every buttery bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Only two ingredients and minimal prep time.
- No Fancy Tools Needed: Just a pot, water, and corn!
- Naturally Sweet: Fresh corn shines without needing extra seasonings.
- Versatile: Serve as a side dish, add toppings, or use in salads and salsas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Fresh corn on the cob (as many ears as you need)
- Water (enough to fully submerge the corn)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Corn
- Peel back the husks and remove the silk from each ear of corn. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining debris.
- If desired, snap off the stems to make the corn easier to handle.
2. Boil the Water
- Fill a large pot with enough water to fully submerge the corn. Add a pinch of salt if desired, though it’s not necessary for flavor.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3. Cook the Corn
- Carefully place the ears of corn into the boiling water. If they don’t all fit, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Boil the corn for 4–6 minutes , depending on how tender you like it. Fresh, high-quality corn will cook quickly and retain its sweetness.
4. Cool and Serve
- Use tongs to remove the corn from the water and let it cool slightly before handling.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as butter, salt, pepper, grated Parmesan, or fresh herbs.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Style: Slather with melted butter and sprinkle with flaky sea salt for a timeless treat.
- Creative Twists: Top with chili powder, lime juice, and crumbled cotija cheese for a Mexican-inspired flair.
- As a Side Dish: Pair with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or summer salads for a complete meal.
- In Recipes: Cut the kernels off the cob and use them in salsas, salads, soups, or pasta dishes.
Pro Tips for Success
- Choose Fresh Corn: Look for bright green husks, plump kernels, and moist silks for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Boiling for too long can make the corn mushy and less sweet. Stick to 4–6 minutes for optimal results.
- Try Steaming: For an alternative method, steam the corn in a steamer basket over boiling water for 8–10 minutes.
- Grill It Instead: For a smoky twist, wrap the boiled corn in foil with butter and grill for 5–10 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This 2-Ingredient Corn on the Cob is proof that sometimes the simplest recipes yield the most delicious results. With nothing more than fresh corn and water, you can enjoy a sweet, juicy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
So grab some fresh ears of corn, boil up a pot of water, and savor the natural sweetness of this summertime staple. One bite of this tender, golden goodness, and you’ll feel like you’ve captured the essence of summer in every kernel—one perfectly cooked cob at a time! 🌽
