roast or barbecue the cobs (husks off, in foil 8-15 mins; husks on, no foil 8-15 mins; husks off, no foil 5-7 mins). always turn the cobs when cooking. boil the cobs (3-6 mins - don't use any salt as it will toughen them up). boil the loose kernels (2-3 mins).