Corn on the cob
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Fresh corn on the cob, with its sweet kernels and satisfying crunch, is a summer favorite. To enjoy its peak flavor and texture, proper storage is key. Learn how to keep your corn fresh for longer, whether you're planning to cook it soon or preserve it for later.
Storage Time
Best consumed within 1-2 days of purchase for optimal sweetness. Can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, and up to 8-12 months when properly frozen.
Temperature
Store unhusked corn in the refrigerator at 0–4°C (32–40°F). Cooked corn should also be refrigerated promptly.
Freezing
To freeze corn on the cob, blanch it first by boiling whole ears for 7-9 minutes, then immediately plunging them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, you can either freeze the ears whole (wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag) or cut the kernels off the cob and freeze them in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw frozen corn overnight in the refrigerator or use it directly in cooking. Freezing may slightly alter the texture, making it a bit softer, but the flavor remains excellent.
Signs of Spoilage
- Kernels appear dull, shriveled, or dried out.
- A sour or fermented smell emanating from the cob.
- Visible mold growth on the husks or kernels.
- The cob feels soft and mushy instead of firm.
