Corn on the cob is a summer staple that brings joy to every barbecue and picnic. However, boiling or grilling corn can be time-consuming and messy. Enter the Instant Pot, a revolutionary kitchen appliance that makes cooking corn on the cob a breeze. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the secrets of how to instant pot corn on the cob, ensuring perfectly cooked, juicy kernels every time.
Materials You’ll Need
- Instant Pot
- Corn on the cob
- Water
- Salt (optional)
- Butter (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Corn
Remove the husks and silks from the corn on the cob. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any debris.
2. Add Water to the Instant Pot
Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot. If you prefer a more flavorful corn, you can add a pinch of salt to the water.
3. Place the Corn in the Instant Pot
Place the corn on the cob in the Instant Pot, standing upright. You can fit up to 4-6 ears of corn in a 6-quart Instant Pot, depending on their size.
4. Secure the Lid and Cook
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function. Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your corn:
- Small corn (under 6 inches): 3 minutes
- Medium corn (6-8 inches): 4 minutes
- Large corn (over 8 inches): 5 minutes
5. Natural Pressure Release
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. This will prevent the corn from overcooking and becoming mushy.
6. Quick Pressure Release
After the 10-minute natural release, quick-release the remaining pressure by carefully turning the valve on the Instant Pot lid to the “Venting” position.
7. Remove and Serve
Carefully remove the corn from the Instant Pot and place it on a serving platter. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with salt, if desired. Enjoy your perfectly cooked corn on the cob!
Tips for the Best Instant Pot Corn on the Cob
- For a sweeter corn, choose corn that is fresh and has a bright yellow color.
- If you want to add flavor to your corn, you can add a bay leaf, a few peppercorns, or a clove of garlic to the water before cooking.
- To prevent the corn from drying out, wrap it in aluminum foil before placing it in the Instant Pot.
- If you don’t have a steamer basket, you can use a trivet or a metal rack to keep the corn out of the water.
- Allow the corn to cool for a few minutes before eating to prevent burning your mouth.
Variations
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: After cooking the corn in the Instant Pot, grill it over medium heat for a few minutes to add a smoky flavor.
- Mexican Street Corn: Brush the corn with melted butter, sprinkle with cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.
- Bacon-Wrapped Corn on the Cob: Wrap the corn in bacon and cook it in the Instant Pot. The bacon will add a savory and crispy flavor to the corn.
- Creamed Corn: Remove the kernels from the corn and blend them with a little milk and butter to create a creamy side dish.
The Bottom Line
Mastering the art of how to instant pot corn on the cob is a culinary skill that will elevate your summer gatherings. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy juicy, flavorful corn on the cob without the hassle of boiling or grilling. Experiment with different variations to find your favorite way to savor this summer staple.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I cook frozen corn on the cob in the Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can cook frozen corn on the cob in the Instant Pot. Add an extra minute to the cooking time.
Q: How long can I store cooked corn on the cob in the refrigerator?
A: Cooked corn on the cob can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I use the Instant Pot to make corn on the cob without water?
A: Yes, you can cook corn on the cob in the Instant Pot without water. However, the corn will not be as juicy.
Q: What is the best way to reheat corn on the cob?
A: The best way to reheat corn on the cob is in the microwave or on the grill.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the Instant Pot when cooking corn on the cob?
A: Yes, you can add other vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or green beans to the Instant Pot when cooking corn on the cob.
