Corn ribs are a fun and surprisingly easy snack or appetizer that's perfect for summer barbecues or any gathering. They offer a unique twist on traditional corn on the cob, providing a satisfyingly meaty texture and a delicious, smoky flavor. This guide will walk you through making incredibly tasty corn ribs, step-by-step.
What You'll Need:
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, shucked
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Equipment:
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Grill (optional, but recommended for smoky flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Delicious Corn Ribs:
1. Prepare the Corn:
This is where you create the "ribs." Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the corn kernels off the cob, leaving about 1/4 inch of the cob attached at the base. Cut the corn lengthwise into 4 to 6 "ribs," depending on the size of the ear of corn.
2. Make the Spice Rub:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Make sure all the spices are well combined.
3. Coat the Corn Ribs:
Generously coat each corn rib with the spice mixture, ensuring that they are fully covered. You can use your hands or a brush to apply the rub evenly.
4. Grill or Bake the Corn Ribs:
Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the corn ribs for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are slightly charred and heated through. The grilling adds a fantastic smoky flavor.
Baking: If you don't have a grill, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the corn ribs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and slightly browned.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious corn ribs immediately. They are a fantastic appetizer, side dish, or even a unique main course. You can serve them plain or with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or even a spicy lime crema.
Tips and Variations for Your Corn Ribs:
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice rub to your liking. Add some brown sugar for a touch of sweetness, or try different chili powders for varying levels of heat.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite cheese over the corn ribs during the last few minutes of grilling or baking for an extra cheesy treat.
- Make it vegetarian/vegan: Substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise alternative to make this recipe suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets.
- Meal Prep: These can be prepped ahead of time. Coat the corn ribs with the spice rub and store them in the refrigerator until ready to grill or bake.
With their unique texture and flavor profile, corn ribs are a crowd-pleaser that's sure to become a summer favorite. So grab some corn and get cooking! You won't regret it.
