Smoky Barbecued Corn

Name: Smoky Barbecued Corn
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 corn-on-the-cobs (with husks); Sunflower oil spray; 1 tsp cajun seasoning; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 2 limes, cut into wedges

Published: June 4, 2025

by Sofia

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Smoky Barbecued Corn is the perfect side dish for any summer gathering or backyard barbecue. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of corn, enhanced by smoky flavors and spices that make it truly irresistible. Quick to prepare and easy to cook, this dish fits seamlessly into any outdoor event or family dinner, making it a must-try for corn lovers and BBQ enthusiasts alike.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious side dish without any fuss.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of cajun seasoning and smoked paprika gives this corn a unique taste that will impress your guests.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side for grilled meats or as a vegetarian delight at your next barbecue.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh corn-on-the-cob elevates the dish, providing a delightful crunch and sweetness.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy family dinner, Smoky Barbecued Corn fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on this Smoky Barbecued Corn recipe, gather your essential tools. Proper equipment ensures an effortless cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Barbecue or griddle pan
Large pot (for boiling water)
Tongs
Basting brush (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

Barbecue or griddle pan: Essential for achieving that characteristic smoky flavor and charred texture on the corn.
Large pot: Needed to boil the corn before grilling; this helps in tenderizing the kernels for better grilling results.
Tongs: Useful for turning the corn while cooking to ensure even charring without burning.

Ingredients

For this Smoky Barbecued Corn recipe, you will need:

Fresh Corn Ingredients

4 corn-on-the-cobs (with husks)
Sunflower oil spray
1 tsp cajun seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
2 limes, cut into wedges

How to Make Smoky Barbecued Corn

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Preheat or light your barbecue. If using a griddle pan, place it over high heat.
Remove the outer husk leaves from each corn cob so only one layer remains. This helps in achieving the right texture when grilling.
Pull out the silk threads carefully to ensure your corn is clean.

Step 2: Boil the Corn

Place the prepared corn cobs in a large pot of boiling water.
Boil for about 5 minutes until tender. This step ensures that your Smoky Barbecued Corn is juicy and soft.

Step 3: Season the Corn

Drain the boiled corn well.
Peel back the husks slightly but keep them attached. Spray lightly with sunflower oil.
Rub each ear of corn with cajun seasoning and smoked paprika for that smoky flavor punch.

Step 4: Grill the Corn

Place the seasoned corn on your preheated barbecue or griddle pan.
Grill for about 10 minutes, turning regularly until tender and slightly charred all over.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from heat and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the grilled corn. Enjoy your Smoky Barbecued Corn!

How to Serve Smoky Barbecued Corn

Smoky Barbecued Corn is a delightful dish that shines during summer gatherings. Its rich flavors pair well with various accompaniments, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Pairing with Dips

Garlic Butter – A creamy garlic butter adds richness and complements the smoky flavor.
Chili Lime Sauce – This zesty sauce provides a refreshing kick that balances the smokiness.

Adding Fresh Salads

Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw offers a crisp contrast and adds a refreshing element to your meal.
Tomato Salad – Juicy tomatoes tossed in herbs create a bright side that pairs beautifully with grilled corn.

Serving with Proteins

Grilled Chicken – Tender grilled chicken enhances the smoky theme and provides heartiness to your plate.
BBQ Ribs – For meat lovers, smoky barbecued corn alongside ribs makes for an indulgent feast.

Garnishing with Extras

Fresh Herbs – Chopped cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top elevates presentation and flavor.
Cheese Crumbles – Feta or cotija cheese adds a salty creaminess that perfectly contrasts the sweetness of corn.

How to Perfect Smoky Barbecued Corn

For the ultimate Smoky Barbecued Corn experience, consider these simple tips:

Keep Husk Intact – Maintaining some husk helps to retain moisture during cooking, ensuring tender kernels.
Use Fresh Corn – Fresh, in-season corn will yield the best flavor and texture for your barbecue.
Pre-boil for Tenderness – Boiling the corn before grilling ensures it cooks evenly and becomes tender quickly.
Rotate Regularly – Turning the corn every few minutes prevents burning while achieving even char marks.
Experiment with Spices – Feel free to mix different spices according to your taste preferences for a unique twist.
Serve Immediately – Enjoying the corn right off the grill maximizes its flavor and juiciness.

Best Side Dishes for Smoky Barbecued Corn

Smoky Barbecued Corn pairs well with several delightful side dishes that can enhance any barbecue spread. Here are some wonderful options:

Potato Salad – A creamy potato salad offers a hearty balance to your meal; try adding herbs for extra flavor.
Grilled Veggies – Colorful grilled vegetables add nutrition and vibrant color to your plate, complementing smoky flavors beautifully.
Baked Beans – Sweet and savory baked beans provide comfort and warmth, making them a classic BBQ side.
Cornbread – This slightly sweet bread goes hand-in-hand with grilled dishes; consider serving it warm from the oven.
Macaroni Salad – A cool macaroni salad brings creamy texture that contrasts nicely with smoky barbecued corn.
Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad adds a sweet touch, balancing out the savory elements of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling or barbecuing corn can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your Smoky Barbecued Corn experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch for.

Skipping the soaking: Not soaking the corn can cause it to burn on the grill. Soak the corn for at least 30 minutes to keep it moist while cooking.
Using too much seasoning: Over-seasoning can overpower the natural flavor of the corn. Use just enough cajun seasoning and smoked paprika for a subtle taste.
Not preheating the grill: A cold grill will lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your barbecue or griddle pan before adding the corn.
Forgetting to turn regularly: Leaving corn in one spot can lead to charring and uneven cooking. Turn it every couple of minutes for even grilling.
Ignoring freshness: Using old corn can result in less sweet and tender bites. Choose fresh corn-on-the-cob for the best results.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Smoky Barbecued Corn in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Smoky Barbecued Corn

Wrap each ear of corn tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place in a freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible.
Frozen corn will maintain quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating Smoky Barbecued Corn

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap corn in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Smoky Barbecued Corn vegan?

You can easily make this dish vegan by omitting any dairy products. The flavors come from spices, so it’s naturally plant-based!

Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen corn, but ensure it’s thawed before grilling for even cooking.

What is the best way to season Smoky Barbecued Corn?

Use cajun seasoning and smoked paprika for a rich flavor. Feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences!

How long should I cook Smoky Barbecued Corn?

Cook it on the grill or griddle for about 10 minutes, turning regularly until tender and slightly charred.

Final Thoughts

Smoky Barbecued Corn is a delightful addition to any summer barbecue or outdoor gathering. Its smoky flavor paired with lime adds brightness and zest. You can easily customize this recipe by trying different spices or adding herbs like cilantro. Don’t hesitate—give this easy BBQ recipe a try!

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