Grilled Corn With Za’atar Feta Butter

Once it becomes corn season in Jordan, you will see food vendors lining the streets with carts shouting Dorayeh, which means corn in Arabic. The corn in Jordan is a lot denser than corn you would find in the US, and it takes longer to cook. My mom would need a pressure cooker to make the corn soft at home. Instead, the street vendors have the sweet corn constantly cooking in a large pot of boiling water, and they serve the boiled corn with just a sprinkle of salt. I can still taste the amazingly sweet and salty flavors of fresh corn in my mouth! This grilled corn is a way of reminding me of those incredible flavors I experienced.

Since the corn in the United States doesn’t take nearly as much time to cook, I wanted to enhance the flavor of the corn. I am crazily in love with corn. For me, there is nothing better than blackened kernels charred on an open fire. Once the corn is finished cooking, I love to smother it with a za’atar feta butter mixture. This flavorful butter is earthy, salty, and creamy. It tastes incredible once it is melted over the hot grilled corn cobs. 

Grilled corn recipe Ingredients

• Butter: Rich and creamy, adds a velvety texture to the corn.
• Feta Cheese: Salty and tangy, a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the corn.
• Zaatar: A Middle Eastern spice blend featuring earthy and herby notes.
• Garlic: Introduces a savory, aromatic element to enhance the overall flavor.
• Lime Juice and Zest: Offers a zesty and citrusy kick, brightening the dish.
• Corn: Sweet and juicy, the show’s star with a smoky flavor from grilling.
• Olive Oil: Adds a subtle fruity and savory undertone.
• Salt: Enhances and balances the flavors, bringing out the natural sweetness of the corn.

Tips for the Best Grilled Corn

• When is Corn the Sweetest? Corn is the sweetest during its peak season, typically in the summer months. The harvest dates may vary depending on your location. For instance, in California, sweet corn is ready from June 25th to September 30th, while in Pennsylvania, it’s sweetest from July 5th to August 31st. Embrace the deliciousness of summer corn by incorporating it into various recipes!
• How to Pick the Best Corn Identifying the freshest corn while grocery shopping involves a few key tips. Gently peel back a bit of the husk to ensure plump and golden-yellow kernels. The husk should be green and tightly wrapped, without any brown holes. Look for slightly sticky silk, indicating sweeter and fresher corn.
• Should The Corn Be Grilled With The Husk? While grilling with the husk preserves moisture, some prefer removing it for an even charred texture. To do this, peel down the husk in one smooth motion, ensuring all silk is removed. Grilling without the husk provides a more consistent char and a quicker eating experience.

Flavorful Za’atar Feta Butter Topping

The topping for this grilled corn is an irresistible blend of flavors that takes it to a new level. The creamy and tangy butter infused with za’atar, crumbled feta cheese, minced garlic, and zesty lime juice creates a mouthwatering combination that complements the smoky charred corn. As you take a bite, the buttery richness mingles with the sweet juiciness of the corn, while the za’atar adds a unique earthy note. It’s a delightful explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more.

While this za’atar feta butter is undeniably delicious, don’t hesitate to get creative and try different variations. For a refreshing twist, You can add fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro to the butter mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce on top. Drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the buttered corn for a bit of sweetness. The possibilities are endless, and you can tailor the toppings to suit your taste preferences and culinary adventures.

Delicious Pairings for Grilled Corn

This grilled corn is a versatile side dish that complements a variety of main courses and salads. Pair it with BBQ baby back ribs for a mouthwatering combination of smoky flavors and sweet corn freshness. The tender, juicy ribs are perfectly complemented by the charred and seasoned kernels of corn.

If you want a lighter option, serve the corn salad alongside grilled zucchini. The natural sweetness of the corn balances beautifully with the savory, grilled zucchini, creating a delightful medley of flavors and textures.

For a vibrant and refreshing meal, pair the corn salad with a black bass fattoush salad. The crisp and tangy fattoush salad pairs wonderfully with the grilled corn with its mix of fresh vegetables, herbs, and toasted bread.

Serve the grilled corn alongside a refreshing watermelon mint salad for a perfect summer feast. The sweet, juicy watermelon and the aromatic mint contrast to the corn’s smoky flavors.