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Flavorful Grilled Corn Ribs Recipe with Chili Lime Butter and Cotija

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A simple and delicious grilled corn ribs recipe featuring chili lime butter and salty Cotija cheese, perfect for summer gatherings and easy snacking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Juice of 1 large lime
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste (kosher salt recommended)
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • Handful of fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Husk the corn completely and rinse under cold water.
  2. Place the corn on a cutting board and slice each ear lengthwise into 4 to 6 long, rib-like wedges, cutting through the cob but keeping kernels intact (about 5 minutes).
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
  4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F).
  5. Place corn ribs flat side down on the grill grates. Grill for 3 to 4 minutes until grill marks form and kernels start to brown.
  6. Flip the ribs carefully using tongs and grill the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  7. Remove ribs from grill and immediately brush generously with chili lime butter, coating all crevices.
  8. Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese over the ribs while butter is still warm. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
  9. Serve warm as a snack, side dish, or part of a larger meal.

Notes

Use a sharp knife and cut slowly to keep kernels intact. Watch the corn closely while grilling to avoid burning. Brush butter immediately after grilling for best flavor absorption. If no grill is available, use a grill pan, broiler, or roast in a 425°F oven for about 20 minutes, turning halfway. For dairy-free, substitute vegan butter or olive oil and nutritional yeast for cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn ribs, chili lime butter, Cotija cheese, summer recipe, easy grilling, corn on the cob, smoky corn, Mexican side dish