Air Fryer Sweet Corn: Can It Be Done?

Cooking sweet corn in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and tasty way to prepare this popular vegetable. Air-fried corn on the cob is a delicious, healthy, and vegan-friendly side dish that can be made in a matter of minutes, without the need to boil a large pot of water or heat up the grill. With a crispy exterior and soft, juicy kernels, air-fried corn is a great option for a summer barbecue or dinner party.

Can I cook sweet corn in an air fryer?

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for sweet corn in an air fryer depend on the type of corn and the desired texture. Freshly picked corn will require less cooking time, while frozen corn may need a couple of extra minutes. The air fryer temperature should be set between 370-400°F, and the corn should be cooked for 8-15 minutes, depending on the desired level of doneness.

For a simple preparation, shuck the corn and cut off the ends or halve the cobs to fit in the air fryer. Rub olive oil or avocado oil on the corn, and season with salt and pepper. Place the corn in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't touch, and cook for 8-10 minutes at 380°F/190°C. Flip the corn halfway through to prevent hot spots and ensure even cooking.

For a darker roast or crispier texture, increase the temperature to 390°F and cook for 12-15 minutes. If using frozen corn, let it thaw for at least 30 minutes before air frying, and add 2-4 minutes of extra cooking time.

It is important to note that air fryer models vary, so adjust the temperature and timing accordingly. Always check your corn halfway through to prevent overcooking or burning.

Oil and seasoning

Oil is not necessary when cooking corn in an air fryer, but it will help the corn turn a nice golden brown colour and give it a great flavour. Olive oil is the most popular choice, but you can also use avocado oil or butter. If you want to use butter, cut it into small pieces and leave it to come to room temperature while you prepare the corn.

If you are using oil, rub it all over the outside of the corn, or drizzle it over the corn cobs. You can also use a non-aerosol oil spray. You can also add salt and pepper to taste, but it is recommended that you add salt after cooking, as seasoning the corn with salt before cooking will make the corn tough.

If you are cooking frozen corn, it is recommended that you let it thaw for at least 30 minutes before adding it to the air fryer. You can also cook corn straight from frozen, but you will need to add 2-4 minutes of extra cooking time.

Preparing the corn

Next, you will need to cut the corn into pieces that fit in your air fryer. You can cut the ends off the corn cobs or cut them in half with a sharp knife. If you are using fresh corn, you can also break the cob into two halves.

Once your corn is prepared, you can add butter, oil, salt, and pepper, or any other seasonings you like. Olive oil is a popular choice, as it helps the corn to crisp up and caramelize. You can also use avocado oil or butter. If you are using salt, be aware that this can make the corn tough, so it is recommended to add it after cooking.

Finally, place the corn into a baking dish and shake or use tongs to coat it evenly with oil and seasonings.

Cooking and serving

Air-fried corn on the cob is a quick, easy, and delicious way to cook sweet corn. It's a great option if you're cooking for one or making a large batch, and it's perfect for summer barbecues and dinners. The air fryer gives the corn a unique, roasted flavour with a crispy exterior and soft, juicy kernels.

To cook sweet corn in an air fryer, first, remove the husks and silk from the corn. You can cut the ends off or cut the corn in half to ensure it fits in the air fryer. Then, rub olive oil, avocado oil, or butter all over the corn, and season with salt and pepper, or any other spices you like. You can also add toppings like vegan mayonnaise, parmesan cheese, cayenne pepper, lime juice, or barbecue sauce.

Place the corn in the air fryer basket, making sure the cobs are not touching, and set the temperature to between 370 and 400°F. Cook for 8 to 15 minutes, flipping the corn halfway through, until it is tender and slightly charred around the edges. If you are cooking frozen corn, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Once the corn is cooked to your liking, carefully remove it from the air fryer and serve. Air-fried corn on the cob can be served as is, or you can slice the kernels off the cob and add them to salads, pastas, or other side dishes. It goes well with summertime fare like hamburgers, hot dogs, and BBQ meals.

Storing and reheating

Storing your sweet corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator can help keep it moist and tasty for up to 5 days. When you're ready to eat it, simply reheat it in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes, or until it's warm and crispy. If you're working with frozen corn, let it thaw for at least 30 minutes before reheating. Depending on your machine and the initial freezing temperature, you may need to adjust the reheating time.

Frequently asked questions