Corn Ribs Recipe
Corn with queso fresco, cilantro, powder salsa and aioli chipotle
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Ingredients
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Corn & Seasoning
Queso, Cilantro & Garnish
Chipotle Aioli
Serving Tools
Method
Prep & Cut Corn Ribs
Husk and halve
Remove husks and silk from each ear of corn. Stand each cob upright on a cutting board and slice lengthwise down the cob into 4 equal quarters (quarters are 'ribs'). Use a sharp chef's knife and cut carefully to keep kernels attached to the cob pieces.
Seasoning & Aioli
Make chipotle aioli
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced chipotle in adobo, lime juice, minced garlic, honey (if using) and 1/4 tsp salt. Whisk until smooth, taste and adjust salt or lime for brightness. Chill while you cook the corn to let flavors meld.
Oil and season corn
In a shallow bowl or plate, mix 3 tablespoons olive oil with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Brush or toss each corn rib so it is evenly coated in oil. Sprinkle both sides lightly with the powdered chili/salsa powder (reserve a small pinch to finish before serving).
Cook Corn Ribs
Grill method (recommended)
Preheat grill to medium-high (around 400°F / 200°C). Place corn ribs cut-side down on the grill grates. Cook 3–4 minutes until char marks form, then rotate and cook another 3–4 minutes until kernels are tender and nicely blistered. Total cook time about 8–10 minutes, flipping as needed to get even char without burning.
Oven method (alternative)
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Arrange ribs cut-side up on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment. Roast 12–15 minutes until kernels are softened and tips start to brown; broil 1–2 minutes at the end to get char if desired.
Pan-sear method (alternative)
Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sear ribs cut-side down 4–5 minutes until caramelized, then cook 2–3 minutes per side until tender.
Assemble & Serve
Transfer cooked corn ribs to a serving platter. While hot, brush or drizzle a little of the chipotle aioli over each rib to coat lightly.
Sprinkle the crumbled queso fresco evenly over the ribs, then dust with the remaining powdered chili/salsa powder to taste.
Scatter chopped cilantro over the top and add extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing.
Serve immediately while hot. Provide extra chipotle aioli on the side for dipping.
