Delicious corn ribs cooked in an air fryer, garnished and ready to serve.

why make this recipe

Corn ribs, also known as corn riblets, are a fun and tasty twist on traditional corn on the cob. They are easy to prepare and offer a unique way to enjoy sweet corn. Plus, cooking them in an air fryer or oven will give them a delicious, crispy texture while keeping them juicy. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, game days, or as a side dish for your family dinner.

how to make The Best Corn Ribs (Corn Riblets) – Air Fryer and Oven

Ingredients:

2 corn on the cob (cut into mini ribs)
Extra lime juice (to serve)
Fresh coriander (cilantro) or parsley (to serve)
3 tbsp rapeseed/sunflower/olive oil
1/2 lime (juice of) (or lemon)
1 tsp (heaped) smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Directions:

Cutting corn on the cob: Start by cutting the corn into mini ribs. Use a sharp knife to slice lengthwise down the cob. Be careful to keep the cuts even for the best results.
Making corn ribs: In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime juice, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This will be the marinade for your corn ribs.
To cook corn ribs in the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the corn ribs in the marinade and make sure they are well-coated. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
To cook corn ribs in the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Coat the corn ribs in the marinade and place them on the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping once halfway through cooking.

how to serve The Best Corn Ribs (Corn Riblets)

These corn ribs are best served hot with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh coriander or parsley. They make a delightful side dish to grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a snack on their own. For a little extra flavor, consider serving them with your favorite dipping sauce.

how to store The Best Corn Ribs (Corn Riblets)

If you have leftovers, let the corn ribs cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 2-3 days. To reheat, simply use the air fryer or oven again until they are heated through.

tips to make The Best Corn Ribs (Corn Riblets)

Use fresh corn for the best taste. Make sure it is sweet and juicy.
Adjust the seasonings according to your preference. Feel free to add more spices for extra flavor.
If you want a smoky flavor, consider grilling the corn ribs instead of using the air fryer or oven.

variation

If you’re looking to mix things up, try adding some cheese to your corn ribs. After cooking, sprinkle some grated cheese on top and pop them back in the air fryer or oven for a few minutes until melted. This will add a delightful cheesy twist to your dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
While fresh corn is preferred for the best texture, you can use frozen corn. Just make sure to thaw and drain it completely before cutting and marinating.

2. What can I serve corn ribs with?
Corn ribs pair well with grilled meats, salads, and dips. They also make a great snack for gatherings or family movie nights. For a side dish idea, check out this garlic bread recipe.

3. Can I make corn ribs ahead of time?
You can prepare the corn ribs and marinate them ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you are ready to cook. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s best to cook them fresh.