Love Letter to Corn: How to Get the Most Out of Summer’s Sweetest Side

Dear Corn,

We wait all year for your return. You show up golden and humble, sweet and simple. Whether you’re nestled beside a beside a perfectly grilled steak or skewered next to juicy chicken kebabs, you’re always the quiet star of the plate.

At Sussex Meat Packing, we believe great meals are built on love—love for the ingredients, the process, and the people around the table. So, here’s our ode to corn, and how to cook it just right.

1. Choose the Freshest Ears

Start with corn that feels heavy in your hands and has bright green, snug husks. Peel back just enough to peek—kernels should be plump, milky, and tightly packed.

Butcher Tip: Corn is best cooked the day it’s picked.

2. Grill It for Smoky Goodness

Grilling brings out corn’s natural sweetness and adds a hint of char. There are two great ways:

In the husk: Soak for 15–20 minutes, then grill for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally. The husk steams the corn inside—tender and flavorful.

Shucked and brushed with butter: Grill directly over medium heat, turning every couple minutes until you get those beautiful brown marks. It takes about 10 minutes.

Photo Idea: Golden corn with char marks and melting herb butter.

3. Don’t Be Shy with the Butter

Sure, plain butter is great—but this is summer! Go bold. Mix up some herb butter with chopped parsley, garlic, and lemon zest. Or go spicy with chipotle-lime butter.

Sprinkle with flaked sea salt, cracked pepper, or crumbled cheese (cotija is perfect for a Mexican-style street corn).

4. Bonus: Cut It Off the Cob (If You Must)

Leftover grilled corn? Slice it off the cob and toss it into:

• Pasta salads

• Tacos

• Egg scrambles

• Or just reheat it with a little butter in a pan for a next-day side dish

Why We Love Corn (Especially with Meat)

Corn pairs beautifully with everything we cut here at the shop—smoky ribs, juicy burgers, grilled chicken, lamb chops. It brings balance, sweetness, and color to the plate. It’s nostalgic and comforting. And it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

So this summer, love your corn a little extra. Choose it fresh, grill it golden, and dress it like you mean it. After all, it’s more than just a side—it’s a little bite of sunshine.

Visit Us to Build the Perfect Plate

Need help planning your next cookout? Whether it’s the best cuts for the grill or advice on side pairings, we’re here for it.

Sussex Meat Packing

973-875-5641

www.sussexmeatpacking.com

Family-owned. Always fresh.