Smoky Barbecued Corn

Smoky Barbecued Corn is the perfect dish for summer gatherings, backyard barbecues, or just a simple weeknight meal. This vibrant and flavorful side dish brings a delicious smoky flavor to fresh corn-on-the-cob. Easy to prepare and packed with taste, it pairs well with any grilled meat or can stand alone as a delightful vegetarian option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of cajun seasoning and smoked paprika gives the corn a unique smoky taste that elevates your barbecue experience.
• Versatile Side Dish: Smoky Barbecued Corn complements various main courses, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
• Healthy Option: This recipe uses minimal oil and fresh ingredients, making it a nutritious addition to your meal.
• Impressive Presentation: Serving corn still in its husks adds an attractive touch to your table setting.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Smoky Barbecued Corn, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Barbecue grill or griddle pan
• Large pot for boiling water
• Tongs
• Basting brush (optional)
• Knife (for cutting lime wedges)

Importance of Each Tool

• Barbecue grill or griddle pan: Essential for achieving that perfect charred flavor and texture on the corn.
• Large pot for boiling water: Boiling the corn ensures it’s tender before grilling, enhancing the overall taste.
• Tongs: These help you easily turn the corn while it’s cooking, ensuring even grilling without burning your hands.

Ingredients

For the Corn

• 4 corn-on-the-cobs (with husks)
• Sunflower oil spray
• 1 tsp cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

For Serving

• 2 limes, cut into wedges

How to Make Smoky Barbecued Corn

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

1. Preheat or light a barbecue grill (or place a griddle pan over high heat).
2. Remove the outer husk leaves from each cob so only one layer remains.
3. Pull out the silk threads from each ear of corn.
4. Place the corn in a pot of boiling water for about 5 minutes until tender. Drain well.

Step 2: Season the Corn

1. Peel back the husks carefully but do not remove them entirely; they will help keep the moisture in during grilling.
2. Lightly spray each cob with sunflower oil.
3. Rub cajun seasoning and smoked paprika all over the corn for a full flavor infusion.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

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

Step 4: Serve

• Once grilled to perfection, serve your Smoky Barbecued Corn hot with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over just before eating.

Enjoy this delightful summer dish that brings vibrant flavors to every bite!

How to Serve Smoky Barbecued Corn

Serving Smoky Barbecued Corn is a delightful way to enhance any meal. The unique flavor of the smoky spices and the freshness of the corn make it a fantastic addition to your summer barbecues or casual dinners.

With Lime and Chili

• Squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn for a zesty kick.
• Sprinkle with chili powder for an extra layer of heat.

As a Salad Topping

• Cut the grilled corn off the cob and mix it into salads.
• It pairs beautifully with greens, avocados, and tomatoes.

In Tacos

• Use smoky barbecued corn as a filling in tacos.
• Combine with black beans, avocado, and cilantro for a tasty vegetarian option.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Add smoky corn as a colorful addition to your charcuterie board.
• Pair it with cheeses and cured meats for an exciting flavor combo.

With Dips

• Serve with creamy dips like guacamole or sour cream.
• The combination of flavors will elevate your snack time.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Smoky Barbecued Corn

To achieve the best flavor and texture with your Smoky Barbecued Corn, follow these tips for perfection.

• Choose Fresh Corn: Select ears that are plump and green for the best taste.
• Don’t Skip Soaking: Soaking the corn in water before cooking helps prevent burning and keeps it juicy.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of cajun seasoning and smoked paprika to suit your palate.
• Turn Regularly: Rotate the corn frequently on the grill to ensure even cooking and nice char marks.
• Add Extra Flavor: Brush on some smoky BBQ glaze during grilling for an enhanced taste experience.

Best Side Dishes for Smoky Barbecued Corn

Pairing side dishes with your Smoky Barbecued Corn can make your meal even more delightful. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled alongside adds vibrant colors and flavors.
2. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad balances the smokiness of the corn beautifully.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast with its tangy dressing.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans are a classic BBQ side that pairs well with smoky flavors.
5. Cornbread: Tender cornbread offers a comforting side that echoes the sweetness of grilled corn.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with herbs adds protein while keeping things fresh and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Smoky Barbecued Corn, it’s easy to make simple mistakes that can affect flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Ignoring the husk – Removing too many husks can dry out the corn. Only peel back a single layer to keep moisture in.
• Skipping boiling – Not boiling the corn before grilling can lead to uneven cooking. Always boil for 5 minutes to ensure tenderness.
• Over-seasoning – Using too much spice can overpower the sweet corn flavor. Stick to recommended amounts of cajun seasoning and smoked paprika.
• Neglecting oil – Failing to spray the corn with oil before grilling may cause it to stick and burn. A light spray helps achieve a nice char without burning.
• Not turning frequently – Leaving the corn in one position for too long can cause charring on one side. Turn regularly for even cooking.
• Serving without lime – Skipping lime wedges means missing out on a burst of flavor. Always serve with lime for added freshness.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Smoky Barbecued Corn in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Smoky Barbecued Corn

• Wrap cooked corn tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Smoky Barbecued Corn

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap corn in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Place corn on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and cook corn for about 5 minutes, turning until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Smoky Barbecued Corn that you might find helpful.

How do I choose fresh corn for grilling?

Look for ears with bright green husks and moist silk. The kernels should be plump and milky when pressed.

Can I use frozen corn instead?

Yes! While fresh is best for flavor, frozen corn can also be grilled; just ensure it’s thawed first.

What can I serve with Smoky Barbecued Corn?

This dish pairs well with other BBQ favorites like grilled meats, salads, or as part of a picnic spread.

Can I customize the seasoning?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices or herbs to create your own unique flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Smoky Barbecued Corn is not only delicious but also versatile enough to fit into various meals. You can customize it by adding different seasonings or serving it alongside your favorite dishes. Give this recipe a try at your next barbecue and enjoy the delightful flavors!