Air Fryer Corn Ribs

Air Fryer Corn Ribs – Fun and Flavorful Snack

Corn on the Cob or Elotes can get a little messy while eating. Air fryer Corn Ribs is a fun and easy take on this dish. The way the corn is cut causes to curl up in the shape of ribs once cooked. Easy to make, handle and eat… but packed with so much flavor.  

Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2 (8 “Ribs”)

Ingredients

• 2 ears fresh corn, husked

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

• ¼ cup mayonnaise

• 2 teaspoons lime juice

• 1 teaspoon Mexican-style hot sauce (such as Valentina or Tapatio)

• 2 tablespoons crumbled cotija cheese

• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

Directions

Step 1 – Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2 – Prepare the Corn Ribs

Cut each ear of corn into 4 equal parts, lengthwise, so you have 8 "ribs."

Step 3 – Season the Corn

In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Brush the mixture onto both sides of each corn rib.

Step 4 – Air Fry the Corn

Place the corn ribs in the air fryer basket and cook for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

Step 5 – Prepare the Sauce

While the corn is cooking, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, and hot sauce in a small bowl.

Step 6 – Serve and Enjoy

Once the corn is cooked, drizzle the sauce over the ribs and sprinkle with cotija cheese and cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Corn Ribs

• Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra spice.
• Cotija Alternatives: If you can't find cotija cheese, try feta for a similar salty tang.
• Crispy Corn: For even crispier corn, air fry for an extra 2 minutes at the end.

Perfect Pairing Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh salad or spicy grilled shrimp.
• Serve with a chilled beverage like iced tea or a refreshing margarita.

Looking for more crowd-pleasing appetizers? Pair these crispy corn ribs with our Honey Sriracha Wings for a spicy and sweet combo that everyone will love.

Ready to Try Air Fryer Corn Ribs?

Visit Super King Markets for all the ingredients you need to make this crispy, flavorful snack a hit at your next meal!

FAQs

Can I make the corn ribs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the corn ribs ahead of time by cutting the corn and seasoning it with the olive oil and spice mixture. Store the prepared corn in the fridge for up to 2 hours before air frying. Just make sure to air fry them when you’re ready to serve for the best crispy texture.

What’s the best way to cut corn into "ribs"?

To cut the corn into ribs, use a sharp knife and cut each ear of corn into 4 equal parts, lengthwise. You can also cut the corn into thinner strips if you prefer smaller “ribs.” Make sure to cut carefully and use a sturdy surface to avoid any accidents.

Can I add more seasoning to the corn?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings such as paprika, cumin, smoked paprika, or onion powder for extra flavor. If you like it spicy, try adding cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the olive oil seasoning mixture.

What can I use instead of cotija cheese?

If you can't find cotija cheese, you can substitute it with feta cheese, which has a similar crumbly texture and tangy flavor. Other options include Parmesan or even crumbled queso fresco, which will give a lighter, fresher taste.

Can I cook corn ribs without oil?

While the oil helps to crisp up the corn and ensures the seasonings stick, you can skip the oil if you’re looking for a lower-fat version. However, the texture may be less crispy, and the seasoning might not adhere as well. You can also try using a cooking spray instead of olive oil.

Are these corn ribs suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes! To make these corn ribs vegan, simply swap the mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative like vegan mayo, and skip the cotija cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. The rest of the recipe is already plant-based.