Air Fryer Corn Ribs with Cotija and Cilantro Lime Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Air Fryer Corn Ribs are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional corn on the cob. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these seasoned ribs are perfect as a snack or a side dish. Topped with a zesty Elote-style sauce, they bring bold Mexican-inspired flavors to your table with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 2 corn on the cob
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Remove the husks from the corn cobs. Trim the stalk end of each cob to create a stable flat base so the corn can stand upright.
2. Step 2: Place each cob flat side down on a cutting board. Using a large, sharp knife, carefully cut down the center to split the cob in half, then cut each half into two ribs, making 4 ribs per cob.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Step 4: Brush the olive oil mixture evenly over each corn rib, coating all sides.
5. Step 5: Place the corn ribs upright in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, until the edges are crispy and golden.
6. Step 6: Meanwhile, prepare the Elote sauce by stirring together mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, cilantro, lime juice, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
7. Step 7: Once cooked, brush the Elote sauce over each corn rib or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce for added flavor.

Tips & Variations

• For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the olive oil mixture.
• Swap cotija cheese with feta or queso fresco if cotija isn’t available.
• Use fresh lime juice for the sauce to brighten the flavors.
• If you don’t have an air fryer, you can roast the corn ribs in a 425°F oven for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Storage

Store leftover corn ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep them crispy. The Elote sauce can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare corn ribs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the corn ribs and the sauce ahead, then air fry and assemble them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have cotija cheese?

Feta or queso fresco make great alternatives, offering a similar salty and crumbly texture that complements the sauce well.