Name: Air Fryer Corn Ribs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 ears fresh corn on the cob; 3 tablespoons butter, softened; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt, to taste (optional); Fresh herbs like parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

Air fryer corn ribs are a delightful twist on traditional corn on the cob. By slicing the corn into rib-like strips, coating them with a buttery spice blend, and air frying until they curl and char, I create a snack that’s both visually appealing and packed with flavor. This method transforms simple corn into a fun and tasty treat that’s perfect for dipping and sharing. Air Fryer Corn Ribs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I find this recipe to be a game-changer for several reasons:

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and a short cooking time, I can have a delicious snack ready in under 30 minutes.
Flavorful: The combination of butter, paprika, and garlic powder enhances the natural sweetness of the corn, creating a savory delight.
Fun Presentation: The corn curls into rib-like shapes during air frying, making it a fun and unique dish to serve.
Versatile: I can customize the seasoning to suit my taste or pair it with various dipping sauces.
Healthier Option: Air frying uses less oil than traditional frying methods, making this a lighter alternative.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh corn on the cob
Butter, softened
Paprika
Garlic powder
Salt (optional)
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Corn: I start by removing the husks and silks from the corn. Then, I cut off the ends of each ear to create flat surfaces.
Soften the Corn: To make slicing easier, I microwave the ears for 2 minutes and let them cool for about 5 minutes.
Slice into Ribs: Standing each ear on its flat end, I carefully cut it in half lengthwise, then cut each half again to create quarters.
Season: In a bowl, I mash the softened butter with paprika and garlic powder. I then brush this mixture onto all sides of the corn ribs.
Air Fry: I place the seasoned corn ribs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cooking at 400°F (204°C) for 10-12 minutes, I flip them halfway through to ensure even charring.
Serve: Once they’re curled and lightly charred, I serve them hot with my favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. The total time required is about 27 minutes, including 15 minutes of prep and 12 minutes of cooking.

Variations

I love experimenting with different flavors. Here are some variations I’ve tried:

Elote Style: I mix chili powder, garlic powder, and lemon pepper into the butter, then sprinkle Cotija cheese and drizzle lime juice over the cooked ribs.
Sweet Treat: Combining sugar and cinnamon with the butter creates a delightful dessert-like version.
Jamaican Twist: Adding jerk seasoning to the butter gives the corn a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

While these corn ribs are best enjoyed fresh, I sometimes have leftovers. I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, I place them in the air fryer at 350°F (177°C) for about 3 minutes or microwave them for 15 seconds. Alternatively, I cut the kernels off and add them to salads or soups.

FAQs

How do I safely cut the corn into ribs?

Cutting corn can be tricky. I recommend microwaving the ears for 2 minutes to soften them. After cooling, I use a sharp knife to carefully slice the corn lengthwise on a stable cutting board.

Can I use frozen corn?

I prefer fresh corn for this recipe, but if I use frozen, I make sure it’s fully thawed before slicing and cooking.

What dipping sauces pair well with corn ribs?

I enjoy dipping corn ribs into sauces like tzatziki, whipped feta dip, melted butter, or a simple mix of mayonnaise and BBQ sauce.

Can I cook these in the oven?

Yes, when I don’t have access to an air fryer, I bake the seasoned corn ribs at 425°F (218°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Are corn ribs vegan?

They can be. I substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and choose vegan-friendly dipping sauces.

Conclusion

Air fryer corn ribs have become a favorite in my kitchen. They’re quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and offer a fun twist on traditional corn dishes. Whether I’m serving them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they never fail to impress.