Air-Fryer Corn Cob: Quick, Easy, And Delicious

Air fryer corn on the cob is a quick and easy way to cook corn without the hassle of boiling a pot of water. It gives you juicy corn kernels with a roasted flavour in just minutes. The air fryer helps the corn develop a crispy exterior while still maintaining soft and juicy kernels. This method is also great for those who want the grilled corn flavour without having to fire up the grill.

Choosing the right corn

• Timing is crucial: Corn is a seasonal treat, and it's best to buy it during its peak season. Avoid buying corn out of season, as it won't be as sweet and juicy.
• Freshness matters: Look for corn with bright green husks that are tightly wrapped around the cob. Avoid corn with dry, brown, or limp husks. The silk, which are the long hair-like strands, should be moist, sticky, and light in colour.
• Heft and weight: A good ear of corn should feel heavy for its size. This indicates that it's full of juice and packed with sap. A light-feeling cob is a sign that it's starting to turn starchy.
• Plump kernels: When choosing corn, feel the cob gently and ensure the kernels are plump and firm. Avoid cobs with voids or soft spots.
• Avoid pre-shucked corn: While it may be convenient, pre-shucked corn tends to go starchy faster. It's best to leave the corn attached to its husk for as long as possible to preserve its freshness.
• Storage matters: If you're not cooking the corn right away, store it at room temperature if you plan to cook it within a few hours. Otherwise, keep it in the refrigerator, either shucked or with the husks on, in a tightly sealed plastic bag.
• Don't peek: It's considered bad shopping etiquette to pull back the husks to inspect the corn. Not only does it shorten the shelf life of the corn, but it can also leave a flawed product for others to buy if you decide not to take it.

By following these tips, you'll be able to select the freshest and sweetest corn for your air fryer, ensuring a delicious and successful corn on the cob dish.

Preparing the corn

Once you've selected your corn, it's time to prep it. Start by shucking the husks and removing the silk. Give the corn a quick rinse in cold water to remove any remaining silk, then pat the ears dry with a paper towel. If needed, trim the corn so that it fits in your air fryer. You may need to cut the corn in half lengthwise or cut off the ends.

Now it's time to season the corn. Brush or spray each ear of corn with a small amount of olive oil. This will help the corn develop a nice golden color, keep it from drying out, and help the seasonings stick. Season the corn with salt and pepper, or any other spices you like. You can also roll the corn in a mixture of mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder for a street corn-inspired dish.

With the corn prepped and seasoned, you're ready to cook it in the air fryer!

Cooking the corn

Air fryer corn on the cob is a quick and easy way to cook corn without the hassle of boiling a pot of water. It gives you juicy corn kernels with a roasted flavour in just minutes.

First, prep your corn. Remove the husks and silk from the corn. You can cut the corn in half or cut off the ends to make it fit into the air fryer.

Next, season the corn. Brush or spray the corn with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper, or any other seasonings you like. You can also roll the corn in a mixture of mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice and chilli powder for a twist on the classic Mexican street corn.

Now it's time to cook the corn. Place the corn in the air fryer basket and cook at between 370-400°F for 8-15 minutes, depending on how well done you like your corn. For a darker roast, cook for a few minutes longer. Remember to flip the corn halfway through cooking to prevent hot spots and ensure even cooking.

Finally, serve the corn. You can enjoy it hot with some extra olive oil or melted butter, or try some different toppings like chilli flakes, grated parmesan cheese, or chopped herbs.

Customising the corn

Seasonings and spices

A simple way to customise your corn is to add different seasonings and spices. While salt and pepper are the most common additions, you could also try Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, rosemary, or oregano.

Toppings

Adding toppings to your corn can take it to the next level. Try some grated parmesan cheese, a squeeze of lime, or a sprinkle of chilli flakes. For a more indulgent option, top your corn with a combination of vegan mayonnaise and parmesan cheese, or even some vegan feta. If you're a fan of spice, add some chilli powder or cayenne pepper.

Butters

Compound butter is a great way to add flavour to your corn. Simply add some seasoning to your butter—garlic butter with basil, dill, or chives works well. Alternatively, you could combine butter with horseradish and spread this on your corn.

Sauces

Sauces can also be a delicious addition to your air-fried corn. Drizzle some hot sauce, creamy avocado dressing, or green goddess dressing over your corn for a unique flavour profile.

Other additions

If you're looking for something a little different, try adding some crumbled cotija cheese and lime juice to your corn, or even a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning.

Storing the corn

Firstly, it is recommended to place the corn in the refrigerator as soon as possible after purchasing it. If you plan to cook and eat the corn within a few hours, storing it at room temperature is fine, but for optimal flavour, refrigeration is advised. This is because corn has a high natural sugar content, and refrigeration slows the process of sugar breaking down into starch, preventing the corn from becoming bland and starchy.

Secondly, it is best to keep the corn in its husk for as long as possible. The husk acts as a protective layer, preventing the corn from drying out. If the corn is too large to fit in the refrigerator, you can remove some of the outer leaves, but it is recommended to keep at least a couple of layers of the husk intact.

Thirdly, wrap the corn in a plastic bag before placing it in the refrigerator. The plastic bag provides an additional layer of protection to retain moisture in the corn. However, ensure that the bag is not sealed too tightly, as this can trap moisture and promote mould growth. A loose bag allows for some air circulation, reducing the chances of mould while still maintaining humidity.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure your corn stays fresh and juicy until you are ready to cook it in your air fryer!

Frequently asked questions