The holiday of Corn on the Cob Day has been celebrated since at least the 1950’s.

Corn, or maize, is a member of the grass family and is believed to have been domesticated in Mexico around 9,000 years ago. Corn was an important part of the diets of many Native American tribes, including the Iroquois, Algonquian, and Pueblo tribes. By the time of European colonization, corn had spread throughout the Americas and was cultivated extensively by many tribes. Corn was introduced to Europe by explorers in the 15th century, and by the 17th century, it had become a common crop in many parts of Europe.

Corn on the cob has been a part of the human diet for thousands of years, with the oldest evidence of corn consumption dating back to 5,000 BC in Mexico. Corn on the cob was likely enjoyed by Native Americans in the United States, as maize was a staple of their diet.

The first recorded recipe for boiled corn on the cob appeared in an 1845 cookbook, American Frugal Housewife by Lydia Maria Child. The cob being boiled with salt and butter before being served.

The recipe for boiled corn on the cob from The American Frugal Housewife is as follows:

1. Select ears of corn with good sized kernels.
2. Peel off the husks and remove the silks.
3. Place the ears of corn in a large pot of boiling water.
4. Boil for 15-20 minutes until the corn is tender.
5. Remove the ears of corn from the pot and serve with butter and salt.

There is still not a better way to enjoy the classic corn on the cob.

 

In the early 1900’s, corn on the cob began to be served in restaurants and became a popular summertime treat. Today, corn is grown in more than 50 countries around the world and is a staple crop in many diets. In the United States, corn is the most widely consumed grain, with approximately 35 million tons of corn consumed in 2020. Globally, corn is the third most widely consumed grain, behind rice and wheat, with approximately 897 million tons of corn produced in 2020.

 

Fun Facts about Corn on The Cob:

1. The average ear of corn has around 800 kernels.
2. The world’s largest ear of corn on the cob was grown in 2016 and measured in at 25.3 inches long.
3. Corn on the cob is a popular street food in many countries, including Mexico, India, and Vietnam.
4. The husks of corn on the cob can be used to make a variety of crafts, including dolls, baskets, and purses.
5. The United States produces the most corn in the world, followed by China and Brazil.

 

There are over 100 varieties of corn grown in the United States, but only a handful are suitable for eating on the cob. These varieties include yellow, white, bi-color, and super sweet varieties. Some of the most popular varieties for eating on the cob include Golden Jubilee, Silver Queen, Kandy Korn, and Country Gentleman.

There are a variety of different ways to cook corn on the cob, including boiling, grilling, microwaving, and baking. Boiling is the most common method, as it is quick and easy. Grilling is another popular method, as it adds a smoky flavor to the corn. We like to generously butter the cob, wrap it in foil and then grill. Alternatively, we wrap the cob in bacon and then in foil and grill it. Microwaving is also a great option, as it is fast, and the kernels remain moist. Baking corn in the oven can also bring out the sweetness and add a crunchy texture.

 

Grilled corn on the cob is a delicious summertime treat. This recipe serves 4 people.

Ingredients:

•  4 ears of fresh corn, in their husks
•  2 tablespoons of butter, melted
•  2 tablespoons of olive oil
•  2 tablespoons of your favorite herbs and spices (e.g. garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, etc.)

 

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Peel back the husks of the corn, but do not remove them completely. Remove the silk and rinse the corn.
3. Brush each ear of corn with the melted butter and olive oil. Sprinkle with the herbs and spices.
4. Pull the husks back up around the corn and secure with kitchen string.
5. Place the ears of corn on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning every few minutes.
6. Remove the corn from the grill and let cool for a few minutes.
7. Serve the corn with melted butter and extra herbs and spices, if desired. Enjoy!

 

Some of the most famous people known for their corn on the cob recipes include celebrity chefs Rachael Ray, Bobby Flay, and Emeril Lagasse. Other famous corn on the cob makers includes former First Lady Michelle Obama, musician Taylor Swift, and President Barack Obama.

So why not celebrate Corn On the Cob day like so many others. Let us know in the comments if it was ear-resistible!