- Remove the husk over a trash can. I like to take a trash can outdoors and peel the husk over the trash can. - Grasp half or one-third of the leaves and silk at the top, and pull down in one quick motion. - Grasp another handful and repeat until all the leaves and most of the silk is separated from the ear of corn. - Snap off the stem or cut it off over a cutting board using a chef's knife. - Clean off any remaining silk by pulling it off with your hands or use a small brush.