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

Introduction

Vegan Corn Ribs with Aleppo Chili Butter and Lime Zest Cream Cheese have quickly become a hit in my household. This fun and creative twist on traditional corn not only showcases the versatility of this beloved vegetable but also adds a burst of flavor that elevates it to a whole new level. Roasting or air-frying the corn until golden and slightly curled gives it a delightful texture, while the spicy Aleppo chili butter and tangy lime zest cream cheese provide the perfect balance of flavors. My family loves the playful presentation, and these corn ribs make for an excellent snack or side dish at any gathering. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy!

Ingredients

For the Corn:

• 3 ears of corn, husks removed, ends trimmed
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sweet or smoky paprika powder
• 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 other 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
• Juice of 1/2 lime

Garnishes:

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

Instructions

1. Prepare Corn Ribs:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Rinse and pat dry the corn. Carefully cut each ear of corn into quarters lengthwise to create “rib” shapes. If cutting the corn is challenging, you can leave the cob whole or cut it in half instead.
Brush each piece of corn with the seasoned oil mixture, ensuring they are well coated.

2. Cook Corn Ribs:

• Air Fryer: Place the corn ribs in the air fryer at 180°C (355°F) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and curled.
• Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (355°F) and bake the corn ribs for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are slightly golden brown.

3. Prepare Aleppo Chili Butter:
In a small pan, melt the vegan butter with olive oil over low heat. Stir in the Aleppo chili flakes and salt, then set aside. Reheat before serving if needed.

4. Make Lime Zest Cream Cheese:
In a small bowl, mix the vegan cream cheese, lime zest, and lime juice. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

5. Assemble and Garnish:
Once the corn ribs are cooked, arrange them on a serving platter. Drizzle the Aleppo chili butter over the corn ribs and add dollops of the lime zest cream cheese.
Garnish with toasted pine nuts, chopped green onion, and fresh herbs. Add extra lime zest for a bright finishing touch if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 2-3
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250 kcal

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30-45 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (air fryer) or 30-35 minutes (oven)

How to Serve

• Serve warm as a snack or side dish.
• Drizzle with additional Aleppo chili butter for extra flavor.
• Top with extra lime zest and fresh herbs before serving.
• Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for added enjoyment.
• Enjoy with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade.

Additional Tips

1. Corn Selection: Choose fresh, sweet corn for the best flavor and texture. Look for bright green husks and plump kernels.
2. Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of Aleppo chili flakes to suit your spice preference. You can also use a different type of chili if desired.
3. Vegan Cream Cheese Alternatives: If you can’t find vegan cream cheese, you can use a homemade cashew cream or any other dairy-free spread you prefer.
4. Toasting Pine Nuts: Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant.
5. Make Ahead: You can prepare the spice mix and cream cheese in advance to save time on cooking day.

Recipe Variations

• Grilled Corn Ribs: Instead of roasting or air-frying, grill the corn ribs for a smoky flavor and nice grill marks.
• Cheesy Version: Top the corn ribs with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or sriracha to the cream cheese for an extra kick.
• Herb-Infused Butter: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro into the Aleppo chili butter for added flavor.
• Different Vegetables: Use the spice blend and sauce on other vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a similar dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a hearty salad for a balanced meal.
• Pair with grilled vegetables or a quinoa side dish.
• Enjoy with a side of guacamole or avocado for creaminess.
• Serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings for a unique twist.
• Include in a taco spread with fresh toppings for a fun, interactive meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover corn ribs and cream cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Cooked corn ribs can be frozen. Place them in a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen corn?
   Yes, you can use frozen corn, but the texture will differ slightly from fresh corn.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
3. Can I make the cream cheese ahead of time?
   Yes, the lime zest cream cheese can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
4. What can I substitute for Aleppo chili flakes?
   You can use crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a similar flavor profile.
5. Can I use other types of cheese?
   If you’re not strictly vegan, feel free to use regular cream cheese or any cheese spread you enjoy.
6. How do I know when the corn ribs are done?
   They should be golden brown and slightly curled at the edges when cooked.
7. Can I air fry the corn ribs?
   Yes, air frying works great for this recipe, yielding crispy, golden corn ribs.
8. What can I serve with corn ribs?
   They pair well with a variety of dishes, including salads, dips, or as part of a taco bar.
9. How long does it take to cook corn ribs in the oven?
   Corn ribs generally take about 30-35 minutes in the oven.
10. Can I add more spices?
    Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices that you enjoy to enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

Vegan Corn Ribs with Aleppo Chili Butter & Lime Zest Cream Cheese offer a delightful and innovative way to enjoy corn. This dish not only looks stunning but also delivers a burst of flavors that will please any palate. Whether you serve it as a snack, side dish, or part of a larger meal, these corn ribs are sure to impress. With their combination of spicy, creamy, and tangy elements, this recipe is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in. Try this recipe, and enjoy a new favorite that’s both satisfying and fun!

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