Grilled Corn Ribs Chili Lime (Printable Version)

Grilled corn ribs brushed with chili-lime butter, charred and finished with cilantro and lime wedges.

# Ingredient List:

→ Corn

01 - 4 large fresh ears of corn, husked

→ Chili lime butter

02 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
03 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
07 - Zest of 1 lime
08 - Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
09 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
10 - 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)

→ To serve

11 - Lime wedges

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Heat the grill or grill pan to medium-high, about 400°F.
02 - Place a damp towel under one ear for stability. Using a sharp chef's knife, cut each husked ear lengthwise into four even quarters to form ribs.
03 - In a small mixing bowl, combine softened butter, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, lime zest, lime juice, sea salt and chopped cilantro; stir until smooth and fully incorporated.
04 - Lightly brush each corn rib on all sides with a portion of the chili lime butter to coat evenly.
05 - Arrange ribs cut-side down on the hot grill and cook 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until kernels are charred in spots, tender and edges begin to curl.
06 - Transfer hot ribs to a platter and immediately brush with the remaining chili lime butter so it melts into the warm corn.
07 - Scatter extra chopped cilantro over the ribs and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The buttery chili-lime glaze sneaks into every crevice making each bite a flavor bomb.
  • No forks or knives are needed—just grab, eat, and be ready for sticky, happy fingers.
02 -
  • If you rush cutting the corn, slippage leads to uneven ribs (and maybe a scare on your fingers) so go slow.
  • Waiting to brush on more chili-lime butter right after grilling, while still blazing hot, totally transforms the flavor and look.
03 -
  • A sharp knife (and slow, careful cuts) saves fingers and makes perfectly shaped ribs.
  • Resting the corn just a minute after grilling helps the butter soak in and flavors meld.
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