First, give that husk a gentle squeeze. If it feels tight and firm, like a good handshake, you’re golden. But if it’s spongy or mushy—like a stress ball that’s been squeezed too many times—that’s a red flag. Run away.
Now, peel back a tiny bit of the husk at the tip. You’re looking for the kernels. They should be plump and tightly packed, like a crowd at a concert. If they feel wrinkled or shriveled, like an old raisin, the corn is past its prime.
My grandma always said, “Corn should feel like it’s smiling back at you.” I know that sounds silly, but seriously, a firm, happy ear of corn is a good one. A soft, grumpy one is not.
