There’s something magical about corn ribs. The way they curl up in the air fryer, the smoky and buttery flavor that bursts with every bite, and the simplicity of the process make them a must-try. I’ll be honest, the first time I made these, I wasn’t expecting to love them as much as I do. But one bite, and I was hooked. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a fun side dish that’s sure to impress.
What’s even better is how quick and mess-free this recipe is. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ-inspired dinner indoors or simply craving something different, air fryer corn ribs are the way to go. You’ll get the same satisfying crunch and smokiness you’d expect from the grill but with way less hassle. Let’s dive into this simple and flavorful recipe that’s guaranteed to make your taste buds sing.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Corn on the cob: The star of the show. Look for fresh, firm ears of corn with bright yellow kernels. These will give you the sweetest and juiciest results.
Olive oil: Helps coat the corn ribs, ensuring they cook evenly and develop a golden, crispy exterior. You can substitute with avocado oil if preferred.
Smoked paprika: This spice gives the corn ribs a smoky, slightly sweet flavor. It’s what makes them taste like they’ve just come off the grill.
Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth that complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully.
Salt and pepper: Enhances the natural flavors of the corn and spices. Use freshly cracked black pepper for an extra kick.
Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Ingredients List
- 4 ears of corn
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Corn Ribs
Step 1: Prepare the corn
Carefully cut each ear of corn into quarters lengthwise to create “ribs.” This step requires a sharp knife and steady hands. Place the corn ribs in a large bowl.
Step 2: Season the corn ribs
Drizzle olive oil over the corn ribs, ensuring they are lightly coated. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the corn, then toss until evenly coated.
Step 3: Preheat the air fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes. This ensures the corn cooks evenly and gets that perfect crisp.
Step 4: Cook the corn ribs
Arrange the seasoned corn ribs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The corn ribs should be golden and slightly curled by the end.
Step 5: Garnish and serve
Remove the corn ribs from the air fryer and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Use a sturdy knife: Cutting corn into ribs can be tricky. A sharp, heavy-duty knife will make the job much easier and safer.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Cook the corn ribs in batches if needed. Overcrowding will prevent them from crisping up properly.
- Experiment with seasonings: Swap out smoked paprika for chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne for some heat. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the ribs after cooking for extra flavor.
- Serve with a dipping sauce: Ranch, chipotle mayo, or even melted butter with herbs are great options.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen corn on the cob? A: Yes, but make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cutting and seasoning.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover corn ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Q: Can I make this recipe without an air fryer? A: Absolutely! You can bake the corn ribs in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: What other seasonings work well? A: Cajun seasoning, taco seasoning, or a blend of lemon pepper can all add unique twists to this recipe.