Steam the corn over water and it will ripen in a few minutes

Steamed corn usually takes 15 to 20 minutes to ripen, depending on factors such as corn variety, heat intensity, and corn maturity. The cooking time of corn mainly depends on its variety and maturity. Fresh sweet corn has sufficient moisture and a tender texture, usually steamed for about 15 minutes to ripen. Old corn or glutinous corn may need to be extended to 20 minutes due to its high starch content and compact texture. It is recommended to keep 1 to 2 layers of corn husk during steaming to lock in moisture and prevent the taste from drying out. After the water boils, turn it to medium heat to maintain stable steam. If chopsticks can easily penetrate the corn kernels, it means it is ripe. If a pressure cooker is used, the time can be shortened to 8 to 10 minutes.

In special circumstances, the steaming time needs to be adjusted. Frozen corn does not require thawing and can be steamed directly, requiring an additional 5 minutes of steaming compared to fresh corn. If the corn is particularly large or tightly arranged, it is necessary to extend the time appropriately and flip it halfway to ensure even heating. Corn kernels that wrinkle or darken in color may be overripe and should be turned off in a timely manner. Patients with diabetes can choose tender corn with shorter steaming time and lower glycemic index.

It is recommended to soak corn in cold water for 10 minutes before steaming to improve plumpness. After steaming, remove it immediately to avoid water vapor infiltration. Steaming pumpkin or sweet potatoes together can enrich dietary fiber intake, but it needs to be added in batches according to the food material. People with weak gastrointestinal function can steam corn in sections for easier digestion, avoiding bloating caused by excessive consumption at once. Choosing fresh corn of the season and steaming it as soon as possible can maximize the retention of nutrients such as vitamin B and lutein.