Vegan Corn Ribs with Aleppo Chili Butter & Lime Zest Cream Cheese

Vegan Corn Ribs with Aleppo Chili Butter & Lime Zest Cream Cheese: A Flavorful and Fun Snack

If you’re looking for a unique, plant-based dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for sharing, these Vegan Corn Ribs with Aleppo Chili Butter & Lime Zest Cream Cheese are just the thing. This dish is fun to eat, loaded with bold flavors, and easy to prepare. The corn is air-fried or baked until golden and slightly curled, then topped with a zesty lime cream cheese and drizzled with a spicy Aleppo chili butter. It’s the perfect vegan snack, side dish, or appetizer for any occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Corn:

• 3 ears of corn (longer ones are ideal), husks removed, ends trimmed
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sweet paprika powder (or smoky paprika, if preferred)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Aleppo Chili Butter:

• 3 tbsp vegan butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 ½ tbsp Aleppo chili flakes (or substitute with mild chili pepper flakes)
• Salt to taste (if using unsalted butter)

For the Lime Zest Cream Cheese:

• 125 g vegan cream cheese
• Zest of 1 lime
• ½ lime, juiced

Other Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp finely chopped coriander or parsley
• Extra lime zest for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Corn Ribs

1. Preheat the Air Fryer
   Preheat your air fryer to 180°C / 355°F. If using an oven, preheat to the same temperature.
2. Make the Oil Mixture
   In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful coating for the corn.
3. Cut the Corn into Ribs
   Rinse and pat dry the corn. To make corn ribs, halve each ear of corn, then carefully cut each half lengthwise. If this is difficult, you can cut the cobs in half or keep them whole for an easier alternative.
4. Coat the Corn
   Brush the corn pieces generously with the oil mixture.
5. Cook the Corn Ribs
   Place the corn in the air fryer basket (in batches if needed) and cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and slightly curled. If baking, cook in the oven for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 2: Make the Aleppo Chili Butter

1. Melt the Vegan Butter
   In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the vegan butter with the olive oil. Stir in the Aleppo chili flakes and salt to taste. Set aside, and reheat if necessary before serving.

Step 3: Prepare the Lime Zest Cream Cheese

1. Mix the Ingredients
   In a small bowl, combine the vegan cream cheese, lime zest, and lime juice. Stir until smooth and creamy. Store in the fridge until ready to serve.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Plate the Corn Ribs
   Arrange the cooked corn ribs on a serving platter.
2. Add the Toppings
   Dollop spoonfuls of lime zest cream cheese over the corn ribs, then drizzle with the warm Aleppo Chili Butter.
3. Garnish
   Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts, finely chopped green onions, and coriander or parsley. Add extra lime zest for garnish if desired.
4. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve the corn ribs as a snack, side dish, or appetizer. They pair wonderfully with fresh salads, grilled veggies, or simply on their own!

Recipe Summary:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes (air fryer) or 35 minutes (oven)
• Total Time: 35-50 minutes
• Calories: 260 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4 servings

Tips for Making the Best Vegan Corn Ribs:

• Cutting Corn Ribs: Be cautious when cutting the corn into ribs. Use a sharp knife and, if needed, press down gently to prevent the knife from slipping.
• Adjust Spice Level: Aleppo chili flakes provide a mild heat, but if you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to use regular chili flakes or even add a dash of cayenne.
• Customize the Garnish: Experiment with different toppings like roasted sesame seeds, chopped jalapeños, or even a drizzle of vegan ranch dressing for extra flavor.

Why You’ll Love These Vegan Corn Ribs

These Vegan Corn Ribs are the perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and creamy flavors. The Aleppo Chili Butter gives the corn a warm, mildly spicy kick, while the lime zest cream cheese adds a refreshing citrusy note. The combination of textures—from the crispy, golden corn ribs to the soft cream cheese and crunchy pine nuts—makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, need a fun appetizer, or want a flavorful side dish, these corn ribs are a must-try!

Storage and Reheating:

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the corn ribs in the air fryer or oven until warm and crisp before serving again.

Try this Vegan Corn Ribs with Aleppo Chili Butter & Lime Zest Cream Cheese for a fun and flavorful twist on traditional corn! They’re easy to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for any occasion.

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