Grilled Corn Ribs, Chili Lime (Print Version)

Charred corn ribs glazed with zesty chili-lime butter — a smoky, tangy summer side ready in 30 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Corn

01 - 4 large ears fresh 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 1 tablespoon)
09 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
10 - 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)

→ To Serve

11 - lime wedges

# How to Make It:

01 - Light the grill and heat to medium-high, approximately 400°F (about 200°C). Ensure grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
02 - Using a sharp chef’s knife, stabilize each ear on a damp towel and slice lengthwise into quarters to create ribs; work carefully to keep pieces even.
03 - In a small bowl, combine softened butter with chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, lime zest, lime juice, sea salt and chopped cilantro; mix until smooth and homogeneous.
04 - Brush each corn rib lightly with a thin layer of the chili lime butter, reserving a portion for finishing after grilling.
05 - Place corn ribs cut-side down on the grill and cook 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until well charred, tender and slightly curled at the edges.
06 - Transfer the ribs to a platter, immediately brush with the remaining chili lime butter, sprinkle with extra cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Your friends will marvel at how the corn twists and chars into perfect little "ribs"& and it's way easier than it looks&
  • Bright lime and a gentle heat make every bite deeply satisfying—I end up licking my fingers every single time&
02 -
  • If your knife isn't super sharp& cutting the corn can be frustrating—a dull blade will mash the cob& not split it cleanly&
  • I learned you don’t want to grill the corn whole and slice after—it doesn’t curl or caramelize nearly as well&
03 -
  • Warm your knife under hot water before slicing to glide through the cob more easily&
  • Let the butter sit with spices for a few minutes so flavors meld before brushing on the corn&
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