Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Alternatively, preheat an air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Step 2: Carefully cut each corn cob in half crosswise. This makes the next steps safer and easier for preparing the corn ribs recipe.
Step 3: Stand one corn half upright on a sturdy cutting board. Using a very sharp, heavy chef’s knife, carefully slice down through the center of the cob, splitting it in half lengthwise. Repeat with the other half of the corn. You will now have four quarters from each original cob.
Step 4: Take each corn quarter and lay it flat on the cutting board, cut-side down. Carefully slice it lengthwise again, creating two ‘ribs’ from each quarter. As you cut, the corn will naturally curl into its rib shape. Repeat for all corn quarters until you have 8 corn ribs per original cob.
Step 5: In a small bowl, melt the unsalted butter. In a separate small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until well mixed.
Step 6: Place the cut corn ribs in a large bowl. Drizzle the melted butter over the corn, tossing to ensure each rib is lightly coated. Then, sprinkle the dry seasoning mix evenly over the buttered corn, tossing again to ensure every rib is well-seasoned for this delicious corn ribs recipe.
Step 7: Arrange the seasoned corn ribs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow for proper caramelization and crisping. If necessary, cook in batches.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping the ribs halfway through the cooking time. Cook until the corn is tender, slightly charred, and beautifully curled, with caramelized, crispy edges.
Step 9: Remove the corn ribs from the oven or air fryer. Immediately squeeze fresh lime juice over them. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and a pinch of chili flakes, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your incredible corn ribs recipe!