Quick Answer
Yes, you can absolutely reheat corn on the cob in the microwave. The microwave provides a quick and easy way to reheat leftover corn on the cob to serve again. With just a few simple steps, the corn can be gently warmed through without overcooking.
How to Reheat Corn on the Cob in the Microwave
Follow these simple steps for reheating corn on the cob in the microwave:
- Prepare the corn – Remove any husks and silks from the corn if still attached. Cut the corn off the cob if needed.
- Arrange in microwave-safe dish – Place the corn cobs or kernels in a microwave-safe container. Make sure the corn is in a single layer.
- Add a small amount of water – Add just 1-2 tablespoons of water to the dish. This helps steam the corn while reheating.
- Cover loosely – Cover the dish with a paper towel or loose fitting lid. This traps some steam to prevent drying out.
- Microwave – Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes. The time will vary based on amount being reheated.
- Allow to rest – Let the corn rest for 1-2 minutes before serving. This finishes cooking and evens out the temperature.
The corn can be reheated from both its raw and cooked states using this method. Just adjust microwave time as needed. Watch closely as microwaves can vary in heating intensity.
Tips for the Best Results
Follow these tips for getting the best results when reheating corn on the cob in the microwave:
- Use leftover corn within 3-5 days for optimal flavor and texture.
- Cut corn off the cob before reheating for more even heating.
- Arrange corn in a single layer and use a shallow dish for fastest reheating.
- Add only a small amount of water to lightly steam and prevent drying out.
- Stir or rotate corn during microwaving for more even heating if needed.
- Allow cooked corn to rest before eating so the heat redistribute evenly.
Common Microwave Mistakes
It’s easy to overcook or dry out corn when reheating in the microwave. Be sure to avoid these common microwave mistakes:
- Heating too long – This can cause corn to toughen and dry out.
- Not adding water – Corn can become tough and chewy without a little added moisture.
- Using too much water – Too much water will cause soggy, waterlogged corn.
- Covering too tightly – Corn needs a little ventilation to steam and heat evenly.
- Not allowing to rest – Letting corn rest ensures even heating and prevents overcooking.
Reheating Cooked vs. Raw Corn
The microwave technique differs slightly for reheating raw vs cooked corn on the cob:
For cooked corn:
– Time needed: 1-2 minutes
– No need to add water
– Cover lightly or keep uncovered
For raw corn:
– Time needed: 3-5 minutes
– Add 1-2 Tbsp water
– Cover lightly to steam
The raw corn requires more time and moisture to cook through. But follow the same basic process of arranging in a dish, microwaving, and letting rest before eating.
Other Ways to Reheat Corn
In addition to the microwave, here are some other good ways to reheat leftover corn on the cob:
- Oven – Wrap in foil and bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes
- Grill – Place over direct heat for 3-5 minutes, turning periodically
- Steam – In a steamer basket for 5-10 minutes
- Boil – In lightly salted water for 3-5 minutes
The oven provides gentle evenly heating. The grill gives great charred flavor. Steaming keeps the corn moist. Boiling is fastest but can cause overcooking.
How to Store Leftover Corn
To retain optimal flavor and texture, properly store leftover cooked corn:
- Let corn cool completely before storing.
- Leave corn cobs whole or cut kernels off cob.
- Place in airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Refrigerate for 3-5 days.
- Can also be frozen for longer storage.
Keeping corn in an airtight container prevents drying out. Refrigerating preserves freshness. Freeze for storage up to 3 months.
Serving Reheated Corn on the Cob
Here are some delicious ways to serve reheated corn on the cob:
- Season simply with butter, salt, and pepper.
- Brush with a flavored butter before reheating.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Top with a lime wedge and chili powder.
- Drizzle with barbecue sauce or mayo.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs.
Get creative with fun flavors! Try mixing spices, sauces, herbs, cheeses and more.
Is Reheated Corn as Good as Fresh?
While reheated corn may not be quite as perfect as fresh-picked, it can still be delicious if heated properly. The keys are:
- Using fresh, properly stored leftovers – 3-5 days old max
- Reheating gently to prevent drying out – with a little moisture
- Being careful not to overcook – keep time short
- Allowing to rest before serving – for even heating
Follow these guidelines and leftovers can come close to fresh. The microwave provides a fast, convenient reheating method.
Conclusion
Reheating corn on the cob in the microwave is a quick and easy process. Allowing time for the corn to steam evenly results in tender kernels and cobs with great flavor and texture. Follow the tips provided to prevent overcooking and drying out the corn. With the proper technique, leftovers can taste nearly as good as fresh-cooked corn.