Air-Fried Corn On The Cob: Quick, Easy, Delicious!

Air fryer corn on the cob is a quick, easy, and fuss-free way to cook corn. It is a great alternative to boiling corn, which can be time-consuming and messy. Air frying corn results in tender, juicy, and perfectly crisp kernels with a golden, roasted exterior. It is also a convenient method as it does not require preheating the air fryer. The cooking time is typically between 10 to 15 minutes, making it a fast and hands-free option for weeknight dinners or summer barbecues.

Choosing the right corn

Firstly, it is important to note that sweet corn is the most common variety you will find at your local grocery store. Sweet corn is known for its juicy, sugary kernels that explode with flavour. When selecting sweet corn, the silk, which are the long hair-like strands that stick out of the top, should be pale, moist, or sticky. This indicates freshness, and the sweeter the corn will be. Avoid corn with silk that is brown, dried out, or matted, as this is a sign of older corn.

Next, you want to examine the husk, which is the green leaf-like covering that wraps around the corn. Look for a bright green husk that is free from brown spots, wilting, or damage. The husk should be tightly wrapped around the corn, and if it is damp, it is a sign of freshness. Avoid corn with husks that have little holes, as this could indicate the presence of worms or insects.

Size also matters when choosing corn on the cob. The ideal length is about 8 inches with a thick girth. After checking the silk and husk, give the corn a gentle squeeze, feeling for plump kernels that are developed all the way to the tip. Avoid corn with spaces between the kernels, as this can be a sign of improper pollination, resulting in less tasty corn.

Lastly, remember that corn is best bought in season, as it will be at its sweetest and most flavourful. The best time for corn is typically from June through August. When you get your corn home, store it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and delay the conversion of sugars to starch.

Oil and seasoning

Oil:

The type of oil used can vary, but olive oil is a popular choice for air fryer corn on the cob. You can drizzle the oil directly over the corn cobs in the air fryer basket or use a brush to apply it more evenly. Alternatively, you can use a non-aerosol oil spray for a lighter coating. Avoid using cooking sprays with accelerants as they can damage the air fryer basket. The oil helps the corn to crisp up and caramelize, giving it a delicious toasted flavour and texture.

Seasoning:

When it comes to seasoning, it's important not to overpower the natural sweetness of the corn. Start with a small pinch of salt and pepper, and then add more to taste. You can also experiment with other seasonings like paprika, thyme, or a vegetable spice blend. If you're feeling adventurous, try using Tajin or garlic and herb breadcrumbs for a unique flavour profile. Remember to season the corn while the air fryer is heating up to ensure even cooking.

Butter:

While butter is not technically an oil, it is often used as a finishing touch for air fryer corn on the cob. After cooking, you can add melted butter to the hot corn for extra flavour and moisture. This step is entirely optional but can take your corn on the cob to the next level.

Tips:

• Be mindful of how much seasoning you use to avoid overpowering the natural sweetness of the corn.
• If you're using frozen corn on the cob, you can thaw it first or cook it straight from frozen. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• If your corn on the cob doesn't fit in the air fryer lengthwise, you can cut it in half lengthwise or break it into two halves.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for making corn on the cob in an air fryer will vary depending on the desired level of doneness and the specific air fryer being used. However, here is a comprehensive guide to help you achieve the perfect air-fried corn on the cob:

Cooking Time:

The cooking time for air-fried corn on the cob can range from 6 to 15 minutes, depending on the desired level of doneness and the specific air fryer model. Here are some general guidelines:

• For slightly charred and tender corn, cook for 6 to 8 minutes.
• For tender corn with a more golden brown or charred appearance, cook for 12 to 15 minutes.
• If using frozen corn, it is recommended to thaw it first or add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• It is important to remember that every air fryer cooks differently, so be sure to check on your corn halfway through the cooking process to avoid overcooking.

Cooking Temperature:

The ideal cooking temperature for air-fried corn on the cob is between 370 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (188 to 204 degrees Celsius). Here are some specific temperature recommendations:

• Set the air fryer to 370 degrees Fahrenheit (188 degrees Celsius) and cook for 12 to 15 minutes for tender corn.
• For corn with a more golden brown colour and crispy texture, preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius) and cook for 10 to 12 minutes.
• If using frozen corn, preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius) and cook for around 15 minutes, turning the corn every 5 minutes.
• Some recipes suggest cooking at 380 degrees Fahrenheit (193 degrees Celsius) for 8 minutes for tender, cooked corn.

Tips for Optimal Cooking:

• Preheat your air fryer for 5 minutes before adding the corn to ensure even cooking and a shorter cooking time.
• Ensure that the corn cobs are not overlapping in the air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation.
• Flip the corn halfway through the cooking process to prevent hot spots and ensure even cooking.
• If your corn cobs are too big to fit in a single layer, cut them in half or break them into two halves.
• Do not wrap the corn in aluminium foil as it will steam instead of caramelizing and developing a crispy texture.
• Avoid stacking or overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.

Customising your corn

There are many ways to customise your corn on the cob when using an air fryer. Here are some ideas:

Seasoning

You can season your corn with salt and pepper, or any other spices you like. It is recommended to not overpower the corn's natural sweetness with too much seasoning. Some seasonings you could use are:

• Vegeta All-Purpose Seasoning
• Tajin
• Paprika
• Thyme
• Cajun seasoning

Oil

You can use olive oil to help "air fry" the corn and keep it from sticking. Alternatively, you can use a non-aerosol oil spray.

Butter

You can add butter to your corn on the cob after cooking it in the air fryer. This will give it a juicy and buttery taste.

Herbs

You can add some fresh herbs to your corn on the cob for extra flavour. Some herbs that pair well with corn are:

• Parsley
• Basil
• Cilantro

Cheese

You can sprinkle some cheese on top of your corn on the cob for a salty and savoury taste. Some cheeses that work well are:

• Parmesan cheese
• Cotija cheese

Lemon

Squeezing some lemon on top of your corn on the cob can take its taste to the next level.

Mexican street corn

You can make Mexican street corn by topping the warm corn with Mexican crema, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a dusting of smoked paprika or chilli powder.

Storing and reheating

If you're storing it for another day, you can either shuck it and store it in a plastic bag or leave the husks on and keep it in a tightly sealed plastic bag in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days when stored this way.

You can also freeze cooked corn on the cob. First, make sure it's cool, then wrap and place it into a resealable bag. Cut the kernels off the cob to save space. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to three to four months.

To reheat your corn on the cob, pop it in the air fryer for 2-4 minutes, or until warm and crisp. You can also reheat it in the microwave or oven. If you're reheating from frozen, defrost it in the fridge first or add more reheating time.

Frequently asked questions