Print

Crispy Corn Ribs Recipe Easy Zesty Elote Seasoning Lime Crema

crispy corn ribs recipe - featured image

A crunchy, zesty snack featuring corn ribs seasoned with smoky elote spices and topped with a tangy lime crema. Perfect for casual gatherings or a flavorful side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh sweet yellow corn, husked and cleaned
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • Elote Seasoning Mix:
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • Lime Crema:
  • ½ cup sour cream or Mexican crema
  • Juice of 1 fresh lime (about 2 tablespoons)
  • ½ teaspoon lime zest
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • ¼ cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Cut each ear of corn in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 3-4 long wedges to create corn ribs.
  3. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper to make the elote seasoning.
  4. Brush corn ribs lightly with olive oil on all sides.
  5. Sprinkle the elote seasoning evenly over the corn ribs, pressing gently to help it stick.
  6. Arrange corn ribs spaced out on a baking sheet or wire rack to allow air circulation.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through (12-15 minutes), until golden brown with crispy edges.
  8. While baking, whisk together sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, salt, and honey (if using) to make lime crema. Chill until ready to serve.
  9. Remove corn ribs from oven and let cool for a few minutes to crisp up further.
  10. Plate the corn ribs, drizzle generously with lime crema, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro and crumbled cheese if using.
  11. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes watching carefully to avoid burning. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure crispiness. Use tongs or a spatula to flip ribs gently. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheat best in the oven to maintain crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn ribs, elote seasoning, lime crema, crispy corn, Mexican snack, appetizer, vegetarian, gluten-free