Smoky Barbecued Corn
Smoky Barbecued Corn is the perfect addition to any summer gathering or backyard barbecue. This vibrant dish not only brings a smoky flavor to your plate but also showcases the natural sweetness of fresh corn. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Enjoy this easy BBQ recipe as a side dish or a light vegetarian option that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those who want delicious food without the hassle.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of cajun seasoning and smoked paprika gives this smoky barbecued corn an irresistible taste that will impress your guests.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive backyard party, this grilled corn on the cob fits right in.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with any main course or serve it as a standalone snack. Its bright flavors complement various dishes.
- Healthy and Fresh: Made with just a few wholesome ingredients, this recipe highlights the goodness of fresh corn, making it a guilt-free treat.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience and ensure you make the most of your time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Barbecue grill or griddle pan
- Large pot for boiling
- Tongs
- Knife (for cutting lime wedges)
Importance of Each Tool
- Barbecue grill or griddle pan: Essential for achieving that smoky charred flavor that makes smoky barbecued corn so delicious.
- Large pot for boiling: A must-have for tenderizing the corn before grilling, ensuring it cooks evenly and absorbs flavor.
- Tongs: Useful for flipping the corn while grilling to achieve even charring without burning.
Ingredients
For the Smoky Barbecued Corn
- 4 corn-on-the-cobs (with husks)
- Sunflower oil spray
- 1 tsp cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 limes, cut into wedges
How to Make Smoky Barbecued Corn
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
- Preheat or light your barbecue grill (or place a griddle pan over high heat).
- Remove the outer husk leaves from each corn cob so only one layer remains.
- Pull out any silk threads from the corn.
Step 2: Boil the Corn
- Place the prepared corn in a large pot of boiling water.
- Boil for about 5 minutes until tender.
- Drain well to remove excess water.
Step 3: Season and Grill
- Peel back the husks and lightly spray each cob with sunflower oil.
- Rub cajun seasoning and smoked paprika all over the corn for added flavor.
- Place the seasoned corn on the barbecue grill or griddle pan.
- Grill for approximately 10 minutes, turning regularly until tender and slightly charred.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve your smoky barbecued corn hot off the grill.
- Accompany with lime wedges for squeezing over each cob before enjoying!
How to Serve Smoky Barbecued Corn
Smoky barbecued corn is a delightful addition to any meal, especially during the summer. Its rich flavors and smoky aroma make it versatile for various serving ideas.
With Lime and Cilantro
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a refreshing twist.
As a Side to Grilled Meats
- Pair your smoky barbecued corn with grilled chicken or steak for a hearty barbecue feast.
In Tacos
- Cut the corn kernels off the cob and use them in tacos with avocado and salsa for a flavorful filling.
On a Salad
- Chop the smoky corn and toss it into a salad for added texture and flavor, particularly great with greens or quinoa.
With Cheese
- Top with crumbled feta or cotija cheese for an extra layer of taste that complements the smokiness.
As Appetizers
- Serve smaller pieces of smoky barbecued corn on skewers as bite-sized appetizers at your next gathering.
How to Perfect Smoky Barbecued Corn
To achieve the best smoky barbecued corn, consider these helpful tips:
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Use Fresh Corn – Fresh corn-on-the-cob enhances the sweetness and overall flavor of this dish.
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Pre-soak the Corn – Soaking the corn in water before grilling helps prevent burning and ensures even cooking.
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Adjust Spice Levels – Feel free to modify cajun seasoning to suit your taste; add more for heat or reduce it for milder flavors.
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Maintain High Heat – A hot grill or griddle pan ensures perfect charring while keeping the inside tender.
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Rotate Regularly – Turn the corn every few minutes while grilling to achieve even cooking and avoid burning.
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Experiment with Flavors – Try different spice blends or marinades to customize your smoky barbecued corn experience.
Best Side Dishes for Smoky Barbecued Corn
Smoky barbecued corn pairs well with many side dishes, enhancing any meal. Here are some great options to consider:
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Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy slaw balances out the smoky flavors of the corn nicely.
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Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers complement the barbecue theme perfectly.
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Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad adds heartiness to your meal while contrasting with the smoky notes of the corn.
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Baked Beans – Sweet and savory baked beans make for a classic pairing at any barbecue gathering.
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Cornbread – This sweet bread offers a delightful contrast against the smoky flavor while maintaining that golden corny taste.
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Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad provides a sweet, light option that balances out richer dishes nicely.
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Macaroni Salad – This creamy dish is another great side that rounds out your barbecue plate wonderfully.
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Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad with veggies adds color and freshness alongside your smoky barbecued corn.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Grilling corn can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls. Being aware of these mistakes will help you achieve the best Smoky Barbecued Corn.
- Skipping the Soaking: Failing to soak the corn in water for 5 minutes can lead to dryness. Soaking helps keep the corn juicy.
- Not Using Enough Oil: Overlooking the oil spray may cause spices to burn. A light coating ensures even flavor without burning.
- Ignoring Spice Distribution: Applying spices unevenly results in bland bites. Make sure to rub the spices thoroughly over all sides.
- Overcooking the Corn: Cooking for too long can lead to tough kernels. Monitor closely and remove once tender and slightly charred.
- Forgetting Lime Wedges: Omitting lime wedges misses out on a flavor boost. Serve with lime for an added zesty touch.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Smoky Barbecued Corn in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Smoky Barbecued Corn
- Wrap individual cobs tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
Reheating Smoky Barbecued Corn
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap corn in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place corn on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat for about 1-2 minutes.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water and cover with a lid, steaming for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Smoky Barbecued Corn ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the corn ahead and reheat it before serving. This makes it perfect for gatherings or meal prep.
What other spices can I use for Smoky Barbecued Corn?
Feel free to experiment with chili powder, garlic powder, or even ranch seasoning for unique flavors.
How do I know when my Smoky Barbecued Corn is done?
The corn should be tender and have some char marks. It typically takes about 10 minutes on the grill.
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
While fresh is ideal, you can use frozen corn. Just adjust cooking time as needed since it’s already cooked through.
Final Thoughts
Smoky Barbecued Corn is not only delicious but also versatile enough to pair with any summer meal. You can customize it by trying different seasonings or adding cheese after grilling. Give this easy BBQ recipe a try at your next backyard gathering!
Smoky Barbecued Corn
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Smoky Barbecued Corn is the ultimate summer side dish that elevates any outdoor gathering with its vibrant flavors and smoky aroma. This easy-to-make recipe combines fresh sweet corn with a blend of cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, delivering a deliciously charred experience that’s perfect for barbecues or casual dinners alike. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy this dish as a standalone snack or pair it with grilled meats for a hearty feast. Serve it hot off the grill with lime wedges for a zesty twist that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 corn-on-the-cobs (with husks)
- Sunflower oil spray
- 1 tsp cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 limes, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Preheat your barbecue grill or griddle pan over high heat.
- Remove the outer husk leaves, leaving one layer on each corn cob, and pull out any silk threads.
- Boil the prepared corn in a large pot of boiling water for about 5 minutes until tender; then drain well.
- Peel back the husks and lightly spray each cob with sunflower oil.
- Rub cajun seasoning and smoked paprika all over the corn.
- Grill the seasoned corn for approximately 10 minutes, turning regularly until tender and slightly charred.
- Serve hot with lime wedges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn (approximately 170g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 125mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
