Vegan Corn Ribs with Aleppo Chili Butter & Lime Zest Cream Cheese

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Why You’ll Love This

Quick and Easy: Perfectly air-fried, these corn ribs cook in just 15-20 minutes, making them an ideal choice for a fast lunch or light dinner.
Bold Flavors: The combination of smoky Aleppo chili butter with zesty lime-enhanced cream cheese makes each bite a tantalizing experience.
Functional Ingredients: Most of the components, like olive oil and paprika, are pantry staples, while others like Aleppo chili flakes add a new twist.
Kid-Friendly: Fun to eat and mildly spicy, these corn ribs are a hit with children and adults alike.
Versatile: Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, this recipe will fit into any meal occasion seamlessly.

Ingredients

3 ears of corn: Opt for longer cobs to make substantial ribs.
3 tbsp olive oil: Keeps the corn tender and enhances flavor.
1 tsp sweet paprika powder: Adds a lovely warmth; switch to smoky paprika if preferred for extra depth.
1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses the dish with a rich, savory taste.
Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning the corn to perfection.
3 tbsp vegan butter: Forms the base of the chili butter, making it rich and creamy.
1 tbsp olive oil: Enhances the smoothness of the chili butter.
1 ½ tbsp Aleppo chili flakes: Offers a mild yet aromatic spice; available at Middle Eastern stores.
125 g vegan cream cheese: Makes the dish satisfyingly creamy.
Zest of 1 lime: Gives a refreshing burst of citrus aroma and flavor.
½ lime, juiced: Adds a tangy edge to the cream cheese.
2 tbsp toasted pine nuts: Provides a buttery crunch for texture contrast.
1 green onion, finely chopped: Offers a mild, oniony bite.
1 tbsp finely chopped coriander or parsley: Lends a fresh, herbal note to the dish.
Extra lime zest: For an optional garnish that enhances looks and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by removing the husks and trimming the ends of your corn. If you’re comfortable, cut the corn into ribs by halving it first, then slicing each half lengthwise. This is a bit easier if you have a sharp knife.

Step 2: Season the Corn

In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with paprika, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Brush this flavorful blend over your corn pieces, coating them generously.

Step 3: Cook the Corn

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C / 355°F. Air-fry the corn in batches for 15-20 minutes, ensuring you flip them halfway for even cooking. Alternatively, you can bake them at the same temperature for 30-35 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Chili Butter

While the corn is cooking, melt the vegan butter with olive oil over low heat. Stir in the Aleppo chili flakes and a bit of salt, then set aside. Keep it warm until you’re ready to serve.

Step 5: Make Lime Zest Cream Cheese

In a small bowl, combine the vegan cream cheese with lime zest and juice. Mix well and store it in the fridge until serving time.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Once the corn is cooked, plate the ribs and top with dollops of lime zest cream cheese. Drizzle with chili butter, and finish with toasted pine nuts, green onions, chopped herbs, and extra lime zest if desired.

Important Things to Remember

Safety First: Cutting corn into ribs can be tricky—always use a sharp knife and a steady hand.
Watch the Heat: Make sure to keep an eye on the temperature of your air fryer or oven to prevent the corn from drying out.
Butter Management: Keep the chili butter warm and fluid to ensure a smooth drizzle.

How to Serve It

These corn ribs are fantastic as a standalone snack or side dish. Consider serving them as a vibrant appetizer at a summer BBQ or alongside roasted veggies at dinner. A cold margarita or iced tea pairs beautifully with the zesty flavors.

Making It Your Own

For a twist, try using smoked paprika for an even more profound flavor in the olive oil mixture. Add a bit of crushed red pepper if you prefer spicier food. You can also swap pine nuts with chopped almonds or walnuts to change up the crunch.

Keeping and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, use an air fryer or oven to retain the crispy texture instead of a microwave.

What I’ve Figured Out

Over time, I’ve realized that letting the corn ribs cool slightly before dressing them with chili butter enhances the flavor absorption significantly, making every bite a delightful explosion of taste!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other chili flakes instead of Aleppo?

Yes, you can use any mild chili pepper flakes available to you, though Aleppo offers a unique flavor profile that’s worth trying.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making this dish safe for those avoiding gluten.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No worries! You can bake the corn ribs in the oven at 180°C / 355°F for 30-35 minutes instead.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the chili butter and lime zest cream cheese in advance. However, for best results, cook the corn ribs fresh before serving.