Sweet & Smoky Corn Ribs

Sweet & Smoky Corn Ribs

Not Just for Summertime

Charred, caramelized bites perfect for gatherings. đź–¨ Print this recipe

Corn ribs have become a staple for backyard barbecues and summer snacking, thanks to their crispy edges and tender kernels. This trend—originally rising with restaurant chefs and amplified by TikTok—is here to stay, celebrating sweet corn at its peak and all year long. By seasoning these bite-sized ribs with Shawhan Farms Betty’s Best Sweet & Smoky BBQ Seasoning, you bring depth and caramelized richness. A touch of honey enhances the char, caramelizing the corn just right—no grill required.

Ingredients

  • 4 ears fresh corn, husked and quartered lengthwise
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1½ tsp Betty’s Best
  • 1 tsp honey
  • Salt, to taste
  • Optional: chopped parsley, fresh lime squeeze, or light dusting of our Chile Parmesan for umami

Instructions

  1. Soften the cobs first: Microwave whole ears of corn (in husks or wrapped in a damp towel) for 1–2 minutes. This makes cutting safer and easier.
  2. Quarter the corn: Stand each cob upright on a cutting board; carefully slice into quarters.
  3. Season the ribs: In a bowl, combine olive oil, Betty’s Best seasoning, honey, and a pinch of salt. Toss corn ribs to coat evenly and allow to rest for 5–10 minutes for seasonings to absorb.
  4. Roast: Preheat oven to 425 °F. Arrange ribs on parchment-lined sheet pan. Roast 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until edges curl and caramelize.
  5. Or Grill over medium-high heat (400–425°F): Place ribs directly on clean grates, kernel side down. Grill 8–12 minutes total, turning occasionally, until lightly charred, curled, and tender.
  6. Serve: Garnish with parsley, a drizzle of lime, or a sprinkle of Shawhan Farms Chile Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.

Grilling Tips for Best Results

  • Use indirect heat if ribs are caramelizing too fast—move them to a cooler zone of the grill to finish.
  • Avoid overcrowding—give each piece room to curl naturally.
  • Grill-safe foil pans can be used to keep ribs from falling through if grates are too wide.

Suggested Pairings

  • Grilled chicken or pork
  • Fresh-picked salad with cucumber, tomato, and lime vinaigrette
  • Creamy avocado and black bean bowl for a veggie-forward meal
  • A chilled glass of sparkling lemonade or iced tea with fresh mint sprigs

Recipe Background

Chefs popularized corn ribs in restaurants as early as 2017, and Southern Living recently praised them as a “lasting summer staple”. Their form and flavor make them a natural fit with BBQ-style seasonings like Betty’s Best.

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