How long should corn be boiled in water

Boiling corn in water usually takes 15-20 minutes, and the specific time is influenced by various factors such as corn variety, maturity, firepower, pot type, and personal taste preferences.

Corn varieties directly affect cooking time. Sweet corn with a tender texture usually takes 15 minutes to cook, while glutinous corn with a tight texture takes about 20 minutes. Freshly picked corn has sufficient moisture and a shorter cooking time, while corn that has been stored for a long time may lose moisture and require an extended cooking time. The different firepower of induction cookers or gas stoves can also affect the cooking time, and turning from high to medium heat after boiling can better control the maturity. The difference between using a regular soup pot and a pressure cooker is significant, and a pressure cooker can shorten the time by half. For those who prefer a soft and sticky texture, it can be extended for 5 minutes, while for those who prefer a crisp texture, it can be reduced by 3-5 minutes.

Old corn or frozen corn requires longer time, and frozen corn should be thawed and cooked to avoid uneven heating inside and outside. Boiling with leaves can retain more nutrients but prolong the process by 2-3 minutes, while boiling with peeled leaves is more efficient but slightly loses flavor. In high-altitude areas, due to the decrease in boiling point, an additional 5-8 minutes are required. Using thick bottomed pots such as cast iron pots to evenly transfer heat can reduce the number of flips. There is a significant difference in the thickness of corn stalks, and those with a diameter exceeding 5 centimeters should be longitudinally cut open or boiled for an additional 10 minutes.

When cooking corn, it is recommended to keep 2-3 layers of bracts to prevent nutrient loss. A small amount of salt can be added to the water to enhance sweetness. After cooking, immediately remove it to avoid excessive softening. Different varieties of corn can be cooked in batches, and steaming can better preserve B vitamins. The remaining corn water contains polysaccharides that can be filtered and used as a soup base. Regularly check the condition of corn kernels. If they can be easily penetrated with chopsticks, it means they are ripe. After cooking, eat them as soon as possible to ensure the best flavor.