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Crispy Air Fryer Corn Ribs with Elote Topping

Close-up of grilled Mexican street corn ribs topped with crema, crumbled cheese, and cilantro.
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Make crispy, textural Mexican street corn ribs in your air fryer. This recipe delivers the classic creamy, spicy elote flavor in an easy-to-eat party appetizer format.

Ingredients

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  • 4 ears fresh corn, husked
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice mayo corn)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the corn: Carefully slice each ear of corn lengthwise into four equal wedges, creating ‘ribs.’ Use a sharp, sturdy knife and cut down the cob.
  2. Toss the corn ribs with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt in a bowl until evenly coated.
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C).
  4. Arrange the corn ribs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. You may need to cook in batches.
  5. Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping the ribs halfway through, until the corn is tender and the edges are slightly charred and crispy.
  6. While the corn cooks, prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and cayenne pepper (if using) until smooth.
  7. In a separate small bowl, combine the crumbled Cotija cheese and chopped cilantro.
  8. Once the corn ribs are done, immediately brush them lightly with the spicy mayo mixture.
  9. Sprinkle generously with the Cotija cheese and cilantro mixture.
  10. Serve your Mexican street corn ribs immediately as a party appetizer.

Notes

  • For the crispiest texture, make sure the corn ribs are in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  • If you do not have an air fryer, you can bake these at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, turning halfway.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute Mexican crema for the sour cream in the topping.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyjade.com/mexican-street-corn-ribs-recipe/