Smoky Barbecued Corn

Smoky Barbecued Corn is a delightful summer treat that’s perfect for any outdoor gathering. With its rich, smoky flavor and tender texture, this dish elevates your barbecue experience. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or enjoying a cozy family dinner, Smoky Barbecued Corn adds a delicious twist to your menu. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a great choice for busy days.
• Flavorful Spices: The combination of cajun seasoning and smoked paprika creates a robust flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of corn.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair Smoky Barbecued Corn with grilled meats, salads, or enjoy it as a tasty snack on its own.
• Perfect for Summer: Ideal for barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings during the warmer months.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A delicious option for vegetarians looking to enjoy smoky flavors at their next BBQ.

Tools and Preparation

To make Smoky Barbecued Corn, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Barbecue grill or griddle pan
• Large pot
• Tongs
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Barbecue grill or griddle pan: Provides the high heat needed to achieve that wonderful charred flavor.
• Large pot: Necessary for blanching the corn before grilling, ensuring it cooks evenly.
• Tongs: Helps in safely turning the corn on the grill without burning your hands.
• Basting brush: Useful for applying oil and spices evenly on the corn.

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to make Smoky Barbecued Corn:

For the 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

1. Preheat or light your barbecue grill (or place a griddle pan over high heat).
2. Remove the outer husk leaves from each corn cob so only one layer remains.
3. Pull out the silk threads carefully.

Step 2: Blanch the Corn

1. Place the prepared corn in a large pot of boiling water.
2. Boil for 5 minutes until tender.
3. Drain well and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Season the Corn

1. Peel back the husks from each cob but do not remove them completely; they help keep moisture in.
2. Lightly spray each cob with sunflower oil.
3. Rub cajun seasoning and smoked paprika onto each ear of corn.

Step 4: Grill the Corn

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

Step 5: Serve with Lime

1. Remove from heat and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
2. Squeeze lime juice over each cob before enjoying for added zest!

With these simple steps, you’ll have perfectly Smoky Barbecued Corn ready to be enjoyed by all!

How to Serve Smoky Barbecued Corn

Smoky barbecued corn is a delightful treat that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

Pair with Lime and Cilantro

• Squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn for an added zest.
• Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top to complement the smoky flavor.

Create a Corn Salad

• Cut the kernels off the cobs and mix with diced tomatoes, avocado, and a light vinaigrette.
• Serve chilled for a refreshing side dish.

Add Cheese

• Sprinkle cotija or feta cheese over the hot corn for a creamy texture.
• Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra flavor kick.

Serve with Dips

• Offer a selection of dips like garlic aioli or spicy mayo for guests to enjoy.
• These creamy options balance the smoky taste well.

Top with Butter and Herbs

• Smear butter over the hot corn and add fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
• This classic combo is always a crowd-pleaser.

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How to Perfect Smoky Barbecued Corn

To achieve the best smoky barbecued corn, consider these tips that enhance both flavor and texture.

• Choose Fresh Corn: Select bright green husks and plump kernels; freshness makes a difference in taste.
• Don’t Skip Boiling: Briefly boiling the corn before grilling ensures it cooks evenly and remains tender.
• Use Quality Spices: High-quality smoked paprika and cajun seasoning can elevate your dish significantly.
• Rotate Regularly: Turning the corn frequently on the grill helps achieve that perfect char without burning.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like chili powder, lime zest, or even hot sauce for varied flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Smoky Barbecued Corn

Smoky barbecued corn pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Mix bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus for vibrant color and taste on the grill.
2. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad contrasts nicely with the smokiness of the corn.
3. Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw adds texture and freshness to your plate.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs provides a healthy option alongside grilled corn.
5. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans bring comfort food vibes that go hand-in-hand with barbecued dishes.
6. Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread as an additional nod to your BBQ theme; it’s delicious and filling.
7. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and balances out savory flavors perfectly.
8. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is always a hit at summer gatherings and complements smoky dishes well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Smoky Barbecued Corn, it’s easy to overlook a few essential steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Ignoring the husk: Always leave at least one layer of husk on the corn. This helps retain moisture during cooking.
• Not soaking the corn: Soak the corn in boiling water before grilling. This softens the kernels and ensures even cooking.
• Overusing spices: Less is more! Use a light hand with cajun seasoning and smoked paprika to enhance, not overpower, the corn’s natural flavor.
• Skipping the oil spray: A light spray of sunflower oil keeps the corn from sticking and aids in achieving that perfect char.
• Neglecting to turn frequently: Turn the corn regularly on the grill. This ensures even cooking and prevents burning.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Smoky Barbecued Corn in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Smoky Barbecued Corn

• Wrap each ear of corn individually in aluminum foil before freezing.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Smoky Barbecued Corn

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and wrap in foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 1-2 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a little water. Cover and heat for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Smoky Barbecued Corn?

Smoky Barbecued Corn is grilled corn on the cob seasoned with spices like cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, giving it a deliciously smoky flavor.

Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen corn, but fresh corn offers better texture and flavor. If using frozen, ensure it’s thawed before grilling.

How do I customize my Smoky Barbecued Corn?

Feel free to experiment with different spices or toppings like cheese or herbs. Adding chili powder or lime zest can give it an exciting twist!

What should I serve with Smoky Barbecued Corn?

This dish pairs well with other barbecue sides such as coleslaw, baked beans, and grilled meats. It’s perfect for any summer gathering!

Final Thoughts

Smoky Barbecued Corn is a delightful addition to any summer meal or backyard barbecue. Its unique flavors can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. Try experimenting with different spices or serving options to make it your own!