Mexican Style Sweet Corn Ribs!

Mexican Style Sweet Corn Ribs! is a easy American BBQ recipe that serves 4. 200 calories per serving. Recipe by Simple Man’s BBQ on YouTube.

Prep: 18 min | Cook: 22 min | Total: 50 min

Cost: $5.67 total, $1.42 per serving

Ingredients

  • 4 ears Corn On The Cob (fresh, husked, each ear quartered into 4 ribs)
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil (extra virgin)
  • 1 tsp Chili Powder (mild, smoked if available)
  • 0.5 tsp Ground Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder (optional for extra flavor)
  • 0.5 tsp Salt (kosher or table salt)
  • 0.25 cup Mayonnaise (regular, store‑bought)
  • 1 tsp Chipotle Peppers In Adobo Sauce (finely minced; adjust for heat)
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
  • 1 whole Lime (juiced)

Instructions

  1. Quarter the Corn

    Remove the husks and silk from each ear of corn, then using a sturdy knife cut each ear into four equal quarters (corn ribs).

    Time: PT5M

  2. Make the Chili‑Oil Glaze

    In a small mixing bowl combine olive oil, chili powder, ground black pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Whisk until a smooth glaze forms.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Coat the Corn Ribs

    Using a basting brush, evenly coat all sides of the corn quarters with the prepared glaze.

    Time: PT3M

  4. Preheat the Grill

    Set the Big Green Egg (or your charcoal grill) to 350°F and allow it to preheat.

    Time: PT7M

    Temperature: 350°F

  5. Grill the Corn Ribs

    Place the glazed corn ribs directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 15 minutes, turning every 3‑4 minutes, until the corn is tender and lightly charred.

    Time: PT15M

    Temperature: 350°F

  6. Prepare Chipotle Mayo

    In another bowl, mix mayonnaise, minced chipotle peppers, chopped cilantro, and fresh lime juice until smooth.

    Time: PT5M

  7. Finish and Serve

    Remove the corn ribs from the grill, drizzle or dollop chipotle mayo over each piece, sprinkle with extra cilantro, and serve immediately.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
200
Protein
3g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
8g
Fiber
3g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Allergens: Egg, Soy, Corn

Last updated: April 18, 2026

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Mexican Style Sweet Corn Ribs!

Recipe by Simple Man’s BBQ

Tender quartered corn ribs grilled on a Big Green Egg, brushed with a smoky chili‑oil glaze and finished with a zesty chipotle mayo, cilantro, and lime. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer for summer BBQs and picnics.

EasyAmerican BBQServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
18m
Prep
24m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
52m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$5.67
Total cost
$1.42
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Quartering the corn evenly without injury.
  • Coating the corn ribs uniformly with the chili‑oil glaze.
  • Preheating the grill to the correct temperature (350°F).
  • Grilling the corn ribs to achieve a tender interior and a light char.
  • Preparing the chipotle mayo with balanced heat and acidity.

Safety Warnings

  • Use a sturdy, sharp knife when quartering corn to avoid slips.
  • Handle the hot grill with heat‑resistant gloves.
  • Be cautious of hot oil and open flame when brushing the glaze.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of grilled corn ribs in American BBQ cuisine?

A

Grilled corn ribs are a modern twist on traditional Southern corn on the cob, turning the ear into bite‑size, handheld pieces that are easy to share at picnics and barbecues. The technique reflects the American love for portable, smoky side dishes that pair well with grilled meats.

cultural
Q

What regional variations of corn ribs exist within United States BBQ traditions?

A

In the Southwest, corn ribs are often seasoned with cumin and lime, while in the Midwest they may be brushed with butter and herbs. Some Southern versions use a sweet honey‑brown glaze instead of a spicy chili glaze.

cultural
Q

How is corn ribs traditionally served in Southern BBQ gatherings?

A

They are typically served hot off the grill on a platter, drizzled with a simple butter or mayo‑based sauce, and sprinkled with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. They are eaten with fingers as a handheld side alongside ribs, brisket, or pulled pork.

cultural
Q

During which occasions are corn ribs most commonly enjoyed in American BBQ culture?

A

Corn ribs are popular at summer cookouts, Fourth of July picnics, tailgate parties, and backyard barbecues because they are quick to grill and easy for guests to eat without utensils.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are essential for traditional American BBQ corn ribs, and what are acceptable substitutes?

A

The core ingredients are fresh corn, a simple oil‑based spice glaze (often chili powder, pepper, and salt), and a creamy topping such as mayo or butter. Substitutes include using vegetable oil instead of olive oil, smoked paprika for chili powder, or Greek yogurt in place of mayo.

cultural
Q

What other Southern BBQ dishes pair well with corn ribs?

A

Corn ribs complement smoky meats like pulled pork, brisket, and smoked chicken, as well as classic sides such as coleslaw, baked beans, and potato salad. A cold beer or sweet iced tea rounds out the meal.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making grilled corn ribs?

A

Common errors include cutting the corn unevenly, using a glaze that is too thick and burns, grilling at too high a temperature which chars the outside before the interior cooks, and over‑mixing the chipotle mayo which can cause it to separate.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use a chili‑oil glaze instead of a butter glaze for the corn ribs?

A

The chili‑oil glaze adds a smoky, spicy coating that adheres well to the grilled surface and can withstand higher heat without burning, whereas butter can burn quickly and lose its flavor on a hot grill.

technical
Q

Can I make the chipotle mayo ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the chipotle mayo can be prepared up to 2 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a quick stir before serving to recombine any settled ingredients.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Simple Man’s BBQ specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Simple Man’s BBQ focuses on straightforward, no‑frills outdoor cooking techniques, especially using the Big Green Egg and other charcoal grills. The host emphasizes practical tips for home grillers and classic American BBQ flavors.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Simple Man’s BBQ’s approach to American BBQ differ from other BBQ channels?

A

Simple Man’s BBQ prioritizes simplicity and minimal equipment, often using just a few pantry staples and a single grill. Unlike more production‑heavy channels, the host demonstrates real‑world, budget‑friendly methods that are easy for everyday cooks to replicate.

channel

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