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Grilled Elote Corn Ribs Recipe

4.5 from 150 reviews

Grilled Elote Corn Ribs are a fun and flavorful twist on fresh corn, cut into rib-like strips and grilled to achieve a smoky, charred exterior with juicy kernels inside. Topped with a creamy layer of mayonnaise, tangy lime juice, chili powder, and crumbled cotija cheese, this dish provides a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors. Ideal for summer cookouts or as a unique appetizer, these corn ribs offer a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Corn Ribs

  • 2 ears of fresh corn
  • 2 tbsp avocado or canola oil
  • 1/2 lime, juiced
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

Toppings

  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup grated cotija cheese
  • 2 tsp Tajin
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
  • Lime wedges, to serve

Instructions

  1. Cut the corn into ribs: Carefully cut each ear of corn vertically into quarters, creating rib-shaped strips that will curl nicely when grilled.
  2. Prepare the spice mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together avocado or canola oil, lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder until fully combined.
  3. Coat the corn ribs: Generously brush the spice mixture over all sides of each corn rib, ensuring even coverage for full flavor.
  4. Preheat the grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, preparing it for cooking the corn ribs.
  5. Grill the corn ribs: Place the corn ribs on the grill grates and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally. Grill until the kernels are nicely charred and the ribs have curled.
  6. Add the toppings: Remove the corn ribs from the grill and brush a thin layer of mayonnaise over the curved side of each rib.
  7. Finish with cheese and seasoning: Sprinkle the grated cotija cheese, Tajin seasoning, and finely chopped cilantro evenly over the mayo-coated ribs.
  8. Serve: Serve the grilled elote corn ribs immediately with extra lime wedges on the side for added brightness and tang.

Notes

  • Use fresh, sweet corn for the best flavor and juiciness.
  • If cotija cheese is unavailable, you can use crumbled feta as a substitute.
  • Adjust the amount of chili powder and Tajin seasoning based on your preferred spice level.
  • For indoor cooking, a grill pan works well to achieve charred marks and smoky flavor.
  • Brush the mayonnaise lightly to avoid overpowering the spice blend.

Keywords: Grilled corn ribs, elote, Mexican street corn, corn appetizer, smoky corn, grilled side dish