Cody Casey
Air fryers have become increasingly popular, and for good reason. They are relatively inexpensive, don't heat up the house, and can cook a variety of foods, from steaks to desserts. They are also a healthier alternative to conventional frying methods. One of the best foods to cook in an air fryer is fresh corn on the cob. Not only is it incredibly quick and easy to make, but it also results in tender, juicy, and slightly charred corn with a beautiful roasted flavour.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 370-400°F |
| Time | 6-15 minutes |
| Corn | Fresh or frozen |
| Oil | Olive oil |
| Seasoning | Salt, pepper, lime juice, sauce, butter, chili powder, chives, cheese, parsley, cilantro |
| Serving | As is, or with melted butter and salt |
| Storage | Store kernels in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 6 months |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right corn
Freshness
Look for corn with bright green husks that are tightly wrapped around the cob. If the husks are damp, it's a sign that the corn is fresh. Avoid corn with dry or loose husks, as it may not be as fresh.
Plumpness
Feel the corn to ensure the kernels are plump and tightly packed. Gently squeeze the cob, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Avoid corn with missing kernels or soft spots, as it may not cook evenly.
Size
Select medium-sized ears of corn. Very large ears might not cook evenly in the air fryer, resulting in some kernels being overcooked while others are undercooked.
Variety
Go for sweet corn varieties, as they typically have the best flavour when air-fried. Fresh yellow corn is a popular choice, but you can use any fresh corn variety you prefer or have access to.
Source
If possible, buy your corn from local farmers' markets. They often offer a wide selection of fresh, high-quality corn that your family loves.
Seasonality
Summer is typically corn season, so take advantage of the fresh corn available during this time. The warmer months offer an abundance of sweet, succulent corn that is perfect for air frying.
By considering these factors when choosing corn for air frying, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious and tender air-fried corn on the cob that your family will love.
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Preparing the corn
Once you have selected your corn, you will need to shuck it. Remove the husks and silk from the corn, and cut off the ends if necessary to ensure the corn fits in your air fryer. If your corn is too long, you can also cut it in half.
Next, season your corn. Drizzle or coat the corn with olive oil to help the kernels stay hydrated and prevent sticking. You can also add butter at this stage for a classic rich flavour. Then, sprinkle the corn with salt and pepper, and other seasonings of your choice, such as lime juice, sauce, chili powder, or herbs like chives, cilantro, or parsley.
Finally, place the corn in the basket of your air fryer. It is best to cook the corn in a single layer, so work in batches if necessary.
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Cooking time and temperature
The cooking time and temperature for fresh corn in an air fryer vary depending on the quantity of corn and the model of the air fryer. It is recommended to preheat the air fryer for 5 minutes before adding the corn.
For 2-3 ears of corn, cook for 12-15 minutes at 370ºF, flipping once. If you are cooking 4 ears of corn, heat the air fryer to 400ºF and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
If your air fryer's closest temperature setting is 390ºF, cook the corn for 8-10 minutes or until tender, shaking the basket or rotating the cobs halfway through.
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Seasoning and toppings
Firstly, when preparing the corn for air frying, it is recommended to rub the corn with olive oil. This step is crucial, as it helps to "air fry" the corn, preventing it from sticking to the air fryer basket and ensuring even cooking. It also contributes to the formation of a crispy, caramelized exterior during the cooking process.
Once the corn is coated in olive oil, the next step is to season it with salt. Salt is a fundamental seasoning that accentuates the natural sweetness of the corn. Sprinkle a generous amount of kosher salt or regular table salt over the oiled corn cobs. You can also add black pepper for an extra kick of flavour.
After air frying the corn, you have the option to enhance its flavour further with various toppings. Butter is a classic choice, providing a rich and creamy mouthfeel. Spread melted butter over the hot corn cobs, allowing it to melt into the kernels for a decadent treat. If you prefer a lighter option, you can simply drizzle the butter over the corn.
For those who enjoy a tangy twist, a squeeze of lime juice can be drizzled over the corn, adding a bright, citrusy note to the dish. You can also experiment with different sauces, such as a tangy barbecue sauce or a spicy hot sauce, depending on your preference.
If you're feeling adventurous, sprinkle some chilli powder on the corn for an added kick of heat. For a more subtle approach, fresh herbs like chives, cilantro, or parsley can be used, adding a grassy freshness to the dish. Grated Parmesan cheese is another delicious option, providing a savoury and salty contrast to the sweetness of the corn.
Lastly, feel free to get creative with your toppings. Crumbled cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, can add a creamy and tangy element to the dish. You can also try shaving the corn off the cob and incorporating it into salads, pastas, or other side dishes, allowing for endless combinations of toppings and flavours.
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Storing and reheating
Storing
Air-fried corn on the cob will always taste best when it's fresh. However, you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to three to five days. Wrap the corn tightly in plastic wrap or seal it in an airtight container or plastic storage bag.
Reheating
You can reheat corn on the cob in the air fryer, oven, or microwave. To reheat in the air fryer, preheat it to 400°F for five minutes. Place the corn in the air fryer basket and heat until warmed throughout, which should take two to four minutes. You can also reheat corn in the microwave by wrapping each ear of corn in a damp paper towel and cooking for three to four minutes per ear.
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Frequently asked questions
First, preheat your air fryer to 390-400°F. Shuck the corn and, if necessary, cut the corn in half so it fits in the air fryer. Rub the corn with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place the corn in the air fryer basket and cook for 6-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
It takes 6-15 minutes to cook fresh corn in an air fryer.
You should cook fresh corn in an air fryer at 370-400°F.
You can top air-fried corn with butter, salt, pepper, chives, parsley, cheese, or any other seasonings you like.
