1. Prepare the Corn:
- Clean the Corn:
- Start by husking the corn and removing all the silk strands. You can use a vegetable brush to help remove any stubborn silk.
- Season the Corn:
- Brush each ear of corn with olive oil or melted butter using a basting brush. Make sure the corn is evenly coated. This will help the corn develop a nice, roasted exterior in the air fryer.
- Season the corn with salt and black pepper to taste. Feel free to add other seasonings or spices based on your preferences.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Heat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures the corn starts cooking as soon as it’s placed in the basket.
3. Cook the Corn:
- Arrange the Corn:
- Place the ears of corn in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the corn in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Air Fry:
- Cook the corn at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, turning the ears halfway through the cooking time using tongs. This ensures that all sides are evenly cooked and have a nice golden-brown color.
- For a more charred effect, you can increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- Check for Doneness:
- The corn is ready when the kernels are tender and have a slight char. If the corn needs more time, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve:
- Remove and Serve:
- Carefully remove the corn from the air fryer using tongs. The corn will be hot, so handle it with care.
- Serve the corn immediately, either plain or with your favorite toppings.
- Add Toppings (Optional):
- For a flavorful twist, sprinkle the corn with grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, a dash of chili powder, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. You can also add a sprinkle of garlic powder for extra flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use Fresh Corn:
- Fresh, in-season corn will yield the best results. Look for ears with bright green husks and plump kernels.
- Customize Your Seasoning:
- Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. Cajun spice, smoked paprika, or a drizzle of hot honey can add a unique flavor to your corn.
- Serve with Compound Butter:
- For an extra indulgent treat, serve the corn with a flavored compound butter. Mix softened butter with herbs, garlic, or spices, and spread it over the hot corn.
- Reheat Leftovers:
- If you have leftover corn, you can reheat it in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes. The corn will retain its flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Air fryer corn on the cob is a simple yet incredibly delicious way to enjoy this classic summer vegetable. The air fryer gives the corn a perfect roasted finish with a slight char that adds depth of flavor. Whether you enjoy it plain with a bit of butter and salt or dress it up with your favorite toppings, this easy air fryer recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Serve it alongside your favorite grilled meats, or enjoy it as a standalone treat. No matter how you serve it, air fryer corn on the cob is sure to be a hit!