Spiced Corn with Lime Cream

This vibrant corn rib appetizer transforms ordinary corn on the cob into irresistible finger food with a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and zesty flavors. The Aleppo chili butter adds a gentle warmth while the lime cream cheese provides a cooling counterpoint.

I first created these corn ribs for a summer barbecue when I wanted something more exciting than traditional corn on the cob. Now they're requested at every gathering I host from May through September.

Ingredients

• Fresh corn ears: Choose longer ears for better rib formation and look for bright green husks and plump kernels
• Olive oil: Creates the base for the spice coating and helps achieve that golden exterior
• Sweet paprika: Adds a mild earthy sweetness that complements the corn's natural sugars
• Garlic powder: Provides savory depth without the risk of burning that fresh garlic has
• Vegan butter: Creates a luxurious silky sauce that clings perfectly to the corn ribs
• Aleppo chili flakes: These Turkish peppers deliver moderate heat with fruity undertones and subtle smokiness
• Vegan cream cheese: Serves as the cooling creamy counterpoint to the warm spiced corn
• Lime: Both zest and juice brighten the entire dish and cut through the richness
• Toasted pine nuts: Add textural contrast and nutty flavor that elevates the entire dish
• Fresh herbs: Provide a pop of color and herbaceous freshness to finish the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the seasoning mix:

Combine olive oil with paprika powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a small bowl. This flavorful blend will form the base coating for your corn ribs, helping them develop a beautiful golden exterior while infusing them with savory notes.

Cut the corn safely:

Stand each corn cob vertically on a stable cutting board and carefully cut it in half lengthwise using a sharp chef's knife. Then cut each half lengthwise again to create quarters. Apply steady pressure and take your time with each cut. If this seems intimidating, simply halve the cobs horizontally or leave them whole they will still be delicious.

Cook the corn ribs:

For air fryer method, brush corn pieces with the seasoned oil and cook at 180°C for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway. They are done when they start curling slightly and turn golden brown. For oven method, bake at the same temperature for 30 to 35 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time.

Prepare the Aleppo chili butter:

Combine vegan butter, olive oil, and Aleppo chili flakes in a small saucepan over low heat. Let the butter melt completely and stir to infuse the flavors. Keep warm until ready to serve or reheat gently just before serving for maximum flavor impact.

Mix the lime zest cream cheese:

In a small bowl, thoroughly combine vegan cream cheese with fresh lime zest and lime juice until smooth and well incorporated. The acidity and brightness from the lime cuts through the richness of the cream cheese, creating a perfect cooling element for the spiced corn.

Assemble and serve:

Arrange the corn ribs on a serving platter. Dollop the lime cream cheese over the warm corn, then drizzle with the fragrant chili butter. Finish by sprinkling with toasted pine nuts, green onions, chopped coriander, and additional lime zest if desired. Serve immediately while still warm.

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The Aleppo chili is truly the star ingredient here with its moderate heat and complex flavor profile. I discovered it during a trip to a Middle Eastern market and was immediately drawn to its vibrant red color and fruity aroma. Unlike many other chili varieties, Aleppo offers heat that builds gradually rather than overwhelming your palate immediately.

Making It Ahead

You can prepare all components up to 24 hours in advance for easy entertaining. Store the corn ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator after cooking and reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through. The chili butter can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator simply reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until just melted. The lime cream cheese will actually develop more flavor as it sits, making it perfect for advance preparation.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find Aleppo chili flakes, substitute with a mixture of sweet paprika and cayenne pepper in a 4:1 ratio for a similar flavor profile. For the vegan cream cheese, regular cream cheese works perfectly for non vegans, or you can use thick Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of salt for a tangier option. Fresh herbs can be swapped based on preference basil, mint, or dill all work beautifully with the corn's sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

These corn ribs shine as part of a summer spread alongside grilled vegetables, plant based burgers, or Mediterranean inspired dishes. For a more substantial meal, pair them with a hearty grain salad like tabbouleh or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. They also make a wonderful addition to a tapas style dinner party, complementing other small plates like hummus, roasted peppers, and flatbreads.

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This dish captures the best of summer, blending global influences into a deliciously vibrant recipe your guests will love.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make corn ribs without an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake corn ribs in a conventional oven at 180°C (355°F) for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking. They may not curl as dramatically as air-fried versions but will still be delicious.

→ What can I substitute for Aleppo chili flakes?

If you can't find Aleppo chili flakes, you can substitute with other mild chili pepper flakes. Korean gochugaru or a mix of sweet paprika with a smaller amount of regular chili flakes can approximate the flavor profile.

→ Is there an easier way to cut corn into ribs?

If you're uncomfortable with cutting the corn into ribs, you can simply leave the cobs whole or cut them in half horizontally. The flavors will still be delicious even without the signature 'rib' shape.

→ What dairy alternatives work best for the cream cheese topping?

Most commercial vegan cream cheese alternatives work well. Look for ones with a neutral base like almond or cashew that will allow the lime flavor to shine through. Homemade cashew cream cheese is also an excellent option.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover corn ribs separately from the sauces in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 160°C (320°F) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through, then add fresh toppings.

→ Can I prepare any components ahead of time?

The lime zest cream cheese can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The Aleppo chili butter can be made a day ahead and gently reheated before serving. Cut and season the corn just before cooking for best results.