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Crispy Street-Style Elote Corn Ribs Recipe Easy Homemade with Cotija and Lime

crispy street-style elote corn ribs - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy corn ribs seasoned with chili powder, garlic, Cotija cheese, and fresh lime juice, perfect as a flavorful snack or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste (preferably kosher salt)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (substitute with feta if needed)
  • Juice of 1 large lime
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Place the husked corn on a cutting board. Using a sharp chef’s knife, carefully slice each ear into 4 long ribs lengthwise.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, melted butter, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk to blend evenly.
  4. Add the corn ribs to the bowl and gently toss until each piece is coated with the seasoning mixture.
  5. Arrange the corn ribs flat on the baking sheet, spaced slightly apart for air circulation.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping each rib halfway through (around 12 minutes) to ensure even browning and crispiness.
  7. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese over the hot corn ribs. Squeeze fresh lime juice on top and scatter chopped cilantro if using.
  8. Serve hot and enjoy immediately for best crunch and flavor.

Notes

Dry the corn ribs well before seasoning to avoid steaming. Use a mix of olive oil and melted butter for flavor and browning. Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure crisp edges. Flip ribs halfway through baking for even crispiness. Add cheese and lime immediately after baking to melt cheese slightly without sogginess. Reheat leftovers in a toaster oven or broiler to restore crispness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn ribs, elote, street food, Cotija cheese, lime, crispy corn, appetizer, snack, Mexican recipe