Microwave Corn With Honey Mustard Butter: A Symphony of Sweet and Tangy

My earliest memories of summer always involved corn on the cob. Not just any corn, but the kind we’d shuck right there in the field, the sweet kernels practically bursting with sunshine. While we usually just slathered it in butter and salt, I remember one year my aunt experimented with a honey-mustard glaze, and it was a revelation. That sweet and tangy combination elevated the humble corn on the cob into something truly special. This recipe brings back those nostalgic flavors with a modern, quick twist, proving that deliciousness doesn’t always require hours in the kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Stand Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 4 corn cobs, husks on
• 60 g butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons flat leaf parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

• Microwave-safe plate
• Bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Un-waxed string (optional, for re-tying husks)

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the corn. Peel back the corn husks carefully, taking care not to detach them completely from the base. Remove all the corn silks clinging to the kernels. This step is crucial for a clean-tasting result.
2. If desired, re-tie the corn husks back around the corn cobs using un-waxed string. This helps to trap steam and moisture during cooking, resulting in a more tender and flavorful corn. This is an optional step but recommended.
3. Soak the prepared corn cobs in a bowl of cold water for 5 minutes. This hydrates the husks and helps to create steam during microwaving, further enhancing the corn’s tenderness.
4. Remove the corn from the water and shake off any excess water.
5. Place the corn cobs on a microwave-safe plate. Ensure they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
6. Microwave on HIGH (100% power) for 5 minutes. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your microwave’s wattage.
7. Turn the corn cobs over and microwave on HIGH (100% power) for a further 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking on all sides.
8. Let the corn stand for 5 minutes inside the microwave after cooking. This allows the heat to distribute evenly and the cooking process to complete.
9. While the corn is standing, prepare the honey mustard butter. In a bowl, combine the softened butter, honey, Dijon mustard, and chopped parsley.
10. Using a wooden spoon, beat the ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and form a smooth, creamy mixture. Season with salt and pepper to your taste preference.
11. After the corn has stood for 5 minutes, carefully remove the husks from the cooked corn cobs. Be cautious, as they will be hot.
12. You can either cut the corn cobs in half or leave them whole, depending on your preference and serving style.
13. Place the corn cobs in a bowl and add the honey mustard butter mixture.
14. Turn the corn cobs to coat them evenly with the honey mustard butter. Ensure every kernel is generously covered for maximum flavor.
15. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious combination of sweet corn and tangy honey mustard butter.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of honey to ½ tablespoon. For a sweeter glaze, increase it to 1 ½ tablespoons.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey mustard butter for a subtle kick.
• Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs. Fresh thyme or chives would also complement the flavors beautifully.
• Even cooking: If your microwave doesn’t cook evenly, rotate the corn cobs halfway through each 5-minute cooking interval.
• Grilled option: For a smoky flavor, grill the corn cobs after microwaving them for a few minutes on each side. Baste them with the honey mustard butter as they grill.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the microwave corn with honey mustard butter immediately while it’s still warm and the butter is melted and glistening. It makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, poultry, or fish. It also pairs well with salads and barbecued vegetables.

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave them for a short period, or gently warm them in a skillet with a little butter until heated through. The honey mustard butter may melt and separate slightly upon reheating, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimate of the nutritional information per serving:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	195 kcal	10%
Total Fat	12g	18%
Saturated Fat	7g	35%
Cholesterol	30mg	10%
Sodium	100mg	4%
Total Carbohydrate	20g	7%
Dietary Fiber	3g	12%
Sugars	7g	–
Protein	3g	6%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan: Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative. Ensure the honey is ethically sourced or replace it with maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Spicy Honey Mustard: Add a dash of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey mustard butter for a spicy kick.
• Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate other fresh herbs like cilantro, dill, or basil into the butter mixture.
• Cheese lover’s version: Sprinkle with parmesan cheese after you coat the corn with the Honey Mustard Butter.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use frozen corn on the cob?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Microwave for an additional 2-3 minutes per side, checking for doneness.

Q: What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
A: You can substitute with yellow mustard, but the flavor will be slightly different. Start with a smaller amount (2 teaspoons) and adjust to taste.

Q: How do I know when the corn is cooked through?
A: The kernels should be tender and easily pierced with a fork. The husks will also be slightly softened.

Q: Can I make the honey mustard butter ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the butter mixture up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before using.

Q: Is it necessary to soak the corn before microwaving?
A: Soaking the corn helps create steam and keeps the kernels moist. While not strictly necessary, it is highly recommended for the best results.

Final Thoughts

This Microwave Corn with Honey Mustard Butter is a delightful twist on a classic summer favorite. It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick side dish, and the combination of sweet corn and tangy honey mustard butter is simply irresistible. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback. Serve it alongside your favorite grilled dishes for a complete and satisfying meal. Bon appétit!