Summer means sweet corn season—and there’s nothing worse than wrestling with slippery ears to get those kernels off the cob. Here’s a neat trick that not only makes the job faster and safer but also keeps your work surface spotless.
⚙️ The Hack: Use a Bundt Pan as a Kernel Catcher
All you need is a bundt pan (yes, that cake pan with a center hole!). The ring shape cradles the cob perfectly, allowing kernels to fall straight into the pan without scattering all over.
Here’s what to do:
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Trim the Ends (Optional):
If the ears are uneven, trim the stem end so they sit flat on the bundt pan. -
Position the Ear:
Stand the corn cob upright in the center hole of the bundt pan—stem-end down. -
Slice Downward:
Using a sharp chef’s knife, slice downward along the cob. The kernels will fall neatly into the pan. -
Rotate & Repeat:
Turn the cob a quarter-turn and slice again, continuing until all kernels are removed. -
Transfer & Clean:
Pour the kernels into your mixing bowl. The pan’s nonstick surface makes cleanup a breeze—just rinse or wipe clean.
✨ Why It Works
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Stability: The hole holds the cob steady, reducing slips.
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Containment: Bundt pans have high sides, so no more chasing runaway kernels.
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Multipurpose: When you’re done, use the same pan for baking cakes, gelatin molds, or even storing utensils.
🧽 Bonus Tip:
Pair this hack with a bamboo cutting board to protect your countertops and keep your blade sharper, longer. Bamboo’s natural resistance to moisture and bacteria makes it ideal for prepping produce—and it looks great on display too!
Say goodbye to corn-kernel carnage and hello to quick, clean prep. Next time you fire up the grill or simmer a chowder, you’ll be cutting kernels like a pro—no mess, no fuss.
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