Smoky Barbecued Corn

Smoky Barbecued Corn is the perfect dish for summer gatherings, backyard barbecues, or a cozy evening at home. This easy-to-make recipe highlights the natural sweetness of corn while adding a delightful smoky flavor. It s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with various grilled meats and vegetarian options, making it versatile for any occasion.

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Why You ll Love This Smoky Barbecued Corn

This Smoky Barbecued Corn offers more than just delicious taste.

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of cajun seasoning and smoked paprika gives this corn an unforgettable smoky kick.
• Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or family dinners it complements many main courses.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh corn-on-the-cob enhances the flavor and texture, making each bite delightful.
• Easy Cleanup: Grilling corn in its husk minimizes mess and simplifies cleanup.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking your Smoky Barbecued Corn, gather your essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or barbecue
• Griddle pan (if not using a barbecue)
• Large pot
• Tongs
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or barbecue: Provides the smoky flavor that defines this dish.
• Large pot: Ensures even cooking when boiling the corn before grilling.

Ingredients

For this Smoky Barbecued Corn recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Corn

• 4 corn-on-the-cobs (with husks)
• Sunflower oil spray

For the Seasoning

• 1 tsp cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

For Serving

• 2 limes, cut into wedges

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How to Make Smoky Barbecued Corn

Step 1: Prepare the Grill or Griddle

Preheat or light your barbecue. If using a griddle pan, place it over high heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

1. Remove the outer husk leaves from each corn cob so that only one layer remains.
2. Pull out any silk threads that are left behind.
3. Boil a large pot of water and place the corn in it for about 5 minutes until tender.
4. Drain the corn well after boiling.

Step 3: Season the Corn

1. Peel back the husks from each cob but do not remove them completely.
2. Lightly spray each corn cob with sunflower oil.
3. Rub cajun seasoning and smoked paprika over each cob evenly.

Step 4: Grill the Corn

1. Place the seasoned corn on your barbecue or griddle pan.
2. Cook for approximately 10 minutes, turning regularly until tender and slightly charred.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your Smoky Barbecued Corn with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over just before eating. Enjoy!

How to Serve Smoky Barbecued Corn

Serving Smoky Barbecued Corn is a delightful way to enhance your summer gatherings. The smoky flavor pairs well with various dishes and drinks, making it a versatile side that everyone will enjoy.

With Fresh Salads

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides a crunchy contrast to the smoky corn.
• Tomato and Avocado Salad: The creaminess of avocado complements the charred flavors from the barbecue.
• Greek Salad: Feta cheese and olives add a salty touch, balancing the sweetness of the corn.

With Dips

• Spicy Salsa: A zesty salsa adds an extra kick and is perfect for dipping.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole enhances the smoky taste with its rich texture.
• Yogurt Dip: A cool yogurt dip can balance out the heat from spices used on the corn.

As a Topping

• On Tacos: Smoky Barbecued Corn makes a fantastic topping for tacos, adding flavor and texture.
• On Burgers: Add some corn as a topping on grilled burgers for a unique twist.

How to Perfect Smoky Barbecued Corn

To achieve the best results with your Smoky Barbecued Corn, follow these simple tips that elevate your dish.

• Bold seasoning: Use generous amounts of cajun seasoning and smoked paprika for maximum flavor impact.
• Soak before grilling: Soaking corn in water before grilling helps keep it moist during cooking.
• Rotate frequently: Turn the corn often while grilling to ensure even charring and tenderness.
• Use fresh corn: Fresh corn-on-the-cob yields sweeter, more flavorful results compared to older cobs.

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Best Side Dishes for Smoky Barbecued Corn

Pairing Smoky Barbecued Corn with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options:

1. Coleslaw: A classic barbecue side, coleslaw adds crunch and creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the smoky corn.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers enhance the barbecue theme while offering vibrant colors.
3. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad rounds out your barbecue plate with its comforting flavors.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with smoky flavors, making it a must-try side dish.
5. Baked Beans: Rich and hearty, baked beans provide a savory balance to sweet barbecued flavors.
6. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad can be refreshing alongside smoky dishes, adding variety to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Smoky Barbecued Corn, it s easy to make small errors that can affect the taste and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Ignoring the husks: Leaving too many layers of husk on can lead to uneven cooking. Only keep one layer for the best results.
• Skipping the boiling step: Not boiling the corn first may result in tough kernels. Boil for 5 minutes to ensure tenderness.
• Over-seasoning: Using too much seasoning can overpower the natural flavor of the corn. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced taste.
• Not turning regularly: Failing to turn the corn while grilling can cause burning on one side. Rotate every few minutes for even cooking.
• Serving without lime: Skipping lime wedges takes away a crucial flavor boost. Always serve with lime for an extra zing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the corn in its husks if possible for better freshness.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap each ear of corn tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped corn for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Add a little water in a skillet, cover, and steam on medium heat for about 5 minutes until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Smoky Barbecued Corn?

Smoky Barbecued Corn is grilled corn-on-the-cob seasoned with spices that enhance its natural sweetness and smoky flavor.

Can I make Smoky Barbecued Corn ahead of time?

Yes, you can boil the corn ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Grill right before serving for best results.

What dishes pair well with Smoky Barbecued Corn?

This delicious corn pairs perfectly with grilled meats, salads, or as part of any backyard barbecue spread.

How can I customize Smoky Barbecued Corn?

You can try different spice blends or add cheese after grilling for variations like Mexican street corn.

Final Thoughts

Smoky Barbecued Corn is a delightful addition to any summer gathering or barbecue. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors while keeping it simple. Try this recipe at your next cookout and enjoy the sweet, smoky goodness!