Air Fryer Corn: Can You Do It?

Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance due to their convenience and versatility. One of the many foods that can be prepared in an air fryer is corn on the cob. This method of cooking corn is quick, easy, and results in corn that is juicy, tender, and flavourful. The corn can be seasoned with a variety of toppings and seasonings, such as butter, salt, pepper, and herbs. It can be served as a side dish or used in recipes such as salads, tacos, and corn chowder. Using an air fryer to cook corn is also a convenient option as it does not require boiling water or preheating the appliance.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for corn in an air fryer vary depending on the source. Some sources recommend cooking corn at 370 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 to 15 minutes, or until tender. Others suggest a temperature of 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 12 minutes, turning the corn halfway through.

It's important to note that air fryer models differ, so it's recommended to check on the corn halfway through the cooking process to ensure it doesn't burn. Additionally, it's advised to leave space between the corn cobs to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking.

Some sources suggest cooking corn at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 minutes, while another recommends 10 minutes at the same temperature. It's worth noting that this shorter cooking time may result in corn that is less charred and more juicy and tender.

If you're cooking frozen corn, it's best to thaw it first and then cook it for 5 to 6 minutes. Previously frozen corn will cook faster, so it's important to keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Overall, the cooking time and temperature for air fryer corn seem to range from 8 to 15 minutes at temperatures between 370 and 380 degrees Fahrenheit. The variation in cooking times may be due to differences in air fryer models and personal preferences for the level of doneness.

Oil and seasoning

Oil is an essential component of cooking corn in an air fryer, as it helps the corn to crisp up and prevents it from sticking. You can drizzle oil over the corn cobs in a bowl and toss them to coat, or brush the oil directly onto the corn. Olive oil is a good option, but any cooking oil should work.

It's important to note that you should not use a cooking spray with an accelerant, as this can ruin your air fryer basket. Instead, use a spoon to drizzle the oil or a non-aerosol oil spray.

When seasoning corn for the air fryer, salt and pepper are the most common choices. You can also get creative with other seasonings and herbs, such as coriander, mint, parsley, chilli powder, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. If you're feeling adventurous, you can add a drizzle of sour cream and lime juice to make Mexican street corn.

After cooking the corn in the air fryer, you can also add butter and additional seasonings to taste. Some people like to add butter to their corn before cooking, but this can cause it to brown too quickly and become overly crispy. It's generally recommended to add butter and any other desired toppings after the corn has been cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Using frozen corn

Frozen corn is a convenient option for cooking corn in an air fryer, as it is pre-cleaned and pre-cooked, making the preparation quick and easy. It is also more affordable than fresh corn and available year-round. The frozen corn cobs can be cooked straight from frozen, with no need to thaw them first.

To cook frozen corn in an air fryer, start by preheating the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 4 minutes. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve the desired crispiness. While the air fryer is preheating, you can prepare the frozen corn by removing it from the freezer and gathering any seasonings or sauces you plan to use.

Once the air fryer is preheated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with avocado spray, neutral oil spray, or olive oil to prevent the corn from sticking. You can also use a non-aerosol oil spray or drizzle oil onto the corn directly. Place the frozen corn cobs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring that there is space between them for air to circulate. Overcrowding the basket will result in uneven cooking and soggy corn.

Air fry the frozen corn for 7-9 minutes, then use tongs to rotate the cobs. Fry for another 7-9 minutes until the kernels are golden and tender. The total cook time should be around 14-18 minutes, but it may vary depending on the model of your air fryer and the size of your corn cobs.

Once the corn is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the air fryer and brush it with melted butter, olive oil, or ghee. You can also sprinkle on seasonings like salt and pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chilli powder. For a Mexican street corn vibe, try adding sour cream, cotija or feta cheese, chilli powder, and a squeeze of lime juice. Fresh herbs like cilantro, dill, chives, or mint can also be used to enhance the flavour.

Even cooking

To ensure even cooking of corn in an air fryer, it is important to first prepare the corn by removing the husk and silk. This not only allows for more even cooking but also prevents the corn from burning. The next step is to trim the corn to fit the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of the corn and the model of the air fryer, you may need to cut off the ends of the corn or cut the cobs in half. It is important to ensure that the corn lays flat in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, resulting in some parts being undercooked while others are overcooked. Therefore, if you are cooking a large batch of corn, it is recommended to cook the corn in several smaller batches to ensure even cooking.

Additionally, it is important to leave space between the cobs for the air to circulate. This can be achieved by arranging the corn in a single layer and not stacking or overlapping the cobs. By allowing adequate air circulation, you can ensure that each ear of corn receives the same amount of heat and cooks evenly.

To further promote even cooking, it is recommended to flip or turn the corn halfway through the cooking process. This helps to prevent any one side from becoming too charred, while also allowing each side to develop a golden-brown colour and flavour.

Finally, it is important to remember that every air fryer cooks slightly differently. Therefore, it is essential to keep an eye on your corn during the cooking process and adjust the timing and temperature as needed. By following these tips, you can achieve evenly cooked, perfectly tender, and golden corn on the cob using your air fryer.

Serving suggestions

Corn on the cob is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. It is a great side dish for barbecues, grilled meats, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it at picnics or cookouts.

For a simple yet satisfying option, spread butter on the corn and sprinkle it with salt. You can also add pepper or your favourite spices. If you want to get more creative, try one of the following options:

• For a Mexican twist, spread mayonnaise on the corn, and sprinkle with cotija cheese, chilli powder, and a squeeze of lime.
• For a rich and savoury option, melt some garlic butter and brush it onto the corn. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
• For a unique flavour, brush the corn with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
• For a sweet and savoury combination, brush the corn with butter, sugar, and salt. You can also add black pepper or other ingredients, such as bacon and chipotle chilli powder.
• For a bright and savoury taste, brush the corn with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and lemon juice.

Remember to select fresh corn with bright green husks and plump kernels. You can choose to leave the husks on for a more steamed effect or remove them for a more roasted flavour. If you are cooking for a crowd, you may need to work in batches or use a grill or boiling water to cook the corn more efficiently.

Frequently asked questions