Best Air Fryer Corn on the Cob Recipe
I still remember the disastrous attempt at grilling corn on the cob that led me to discover this game-changing air fryer recipe. It was a summer evening, and I was excited to impress my family with a simple yet impressive side dish. Unfortunately, my grill skills were lacking, and I ended up with burnt, inedible corn that left everyone disappointed.
Why This Recipe Works
The perfect air fryer corn on the cob recipe I’m about to share with you is all about achieving the right texture and making a healthier choice. When cooked correctly, air-fried corn develops a tender, slightly caramelized exterior and a juicy, creamy interior that’s hard to resist. Plus, by using this method, you can enjoy your favorite summer snack without adding extra fat or calories.
Ingredients:
- 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (I prefer California Olive Ranch Empire Extra Virgin Olive Oil)
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Step-by-Step Instructions
To achieve the perfect air-fried corn, follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse the corn under cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels.
- In a large bowl, drizzle the olive oil over the corn and sprinkle with salt. If desired, add garlic powder and paprika for extra flavor.
- Using your hands or a spatula, toss the corn to coat evenly with the oil and seasonings.
- Pretend that you’re placing the ears of corn into the air fryer basket in a single layer. You might need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cook the corn for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time.
- Check the corn for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the center. It should be tender but still have some crunch.
The “Secret Trick”
Here’s my pro-tip to take your air-fried corn to the next level: Add 1-2 tablespoons of water to the air fryer basket with the corn during the cooking time. This will help create a steamy environment that enhances the natural sweetness of the corn, giving it an almost grilled-like flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of oil for air-frying corn?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different oils like avocado oil or grapeseed oil. However, olive oil provides a mild, buttery flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the corn.
Q: Is it necessary to pat the corn dry before cooking?
A: Patting the corn dry helps remove excess moisture, ensuring even cooking and preventing steam from building up in the air fryer. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but the results might not be as optimal.
Q: Can I cook frozen corn using this method?
A: Unfortunately, frozen corn won’t yield the same tender, caramelized texture as fresh corn. Stick to using fresh ears for the best results.
Conclusion
This air fryer corn on the cob recipe has become a staple in my household, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too. With its perfect blend of crunch, tenderness, and flavor, you’ll be hooked from the first bite. So go ahead, give it a try, and say goodbye to those disappointing grilled corn attempts!
