I’m proud to be an Iowa farm girl! That said, I still have a difficult time picking out sweet corn from the grocery store.
Recently, I came across this video. It shows specific steps you can take to find, test, and purchase the very best sweet corn. These tips really work!
But wait!
If at all possible, purchase sweet corn directly from a farm or local independent vendor. When traveling back to my home state during the summer, I’ll often see vegetable stands along the highway. Take advantage of this opportunity. Not only is the corn likely fresher than you’ll find at the grocers, but your purchase may also help support a family farm.
Video synopsis
Before you watch the video, here’s a brief overview:
• Step one: Avoid the urge to “open” the husk and peek at the kernels! This allows air inside, which will dry out the corn kernels. Instead, use your fingers to test for plump kernels. Choose an ear of corn. Gently rub the husk covering the ear with the tips of your thumbs. If you detect full, straight rows of corn with full kernels, you have a potential keeper.
• Step two: Look at the tassels (silk) at the top of the ear. If the silk is a bit sticky and a light brown color, it’s fresh. Dark brown, dry silk usually means the corn is less fresh and not as juicy.
• Step three: Look at the bottom of the ear where it was picked from the cornstalk. The stem should be white, not brown.
Sweet corn can be shucked and cooked all in the same day for optimal freshness. In that case, you can leave the corn on your kitchen countertop.
If you plan to eat the corn tomorrow or later, leave the husks on. Then, tightly wrap the corn in plastic and place it in your refrigerator. Shuck, cook, and enjoy the sweet corn within a few days for the optimal taste.
Here’s the video
A representative from the Arizona Department of Agriculture leads the video. She clearly explains the best ways to pick the right sweet corn from the grocery store.
If you follow her advice, you and your travel buddies will enjoy the sweetest, best summer veggie of all—sweet corn on the cob!
Sweet corn ice cream?
For a yummy (and unique) treat, try sweet corn ice cream. It’s summer in a cone! Here’s the recipe.
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RVT1215
Thank you for sharing the hints, Gail! I will share them with DW. She is a huge fan of corn. Have a great day and safe travels!
I see this all the time. People will pull the husks down looking for the perfect ear and then just toss it back into the bin. Very few ears are perfect. Just because the first inch or so may have small kernels, it doesn’t mean the entire ear is that way.
BTW, don’t do this at a farmers market, you may be scolded.
Thanks for this!
I have been picking corn since I was 10. I learned how from my Grandfather, who passed away in 1987 at the age of 89.
Gently squeeze the top of the ear and if it’s soft then the ear is ripe.
I’m 71 and have never picked a bad ear of corn.
Once a farmer, always a farmer.
Thanks for the additional tip. And I agree… always a farmer…and proud of it!
Leave the husk and silk on, just rinse the whole thing, and put it in the microwave for 3 minutes. The husk will peel off easy and the silk just falls off.
It’a moist and delicious !
I wrap it, husk and all in a couple of sheets of newspaper, and 3 minutes nuked!
Thank you for sharing how to choose the best ears of corn, Gail! I will share these with DW, who is a huge fan of sweet corn. Have a great week and safe travels!