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Flavorful Smoked Jalapeño Honey Butter Corn Ribs

smoked jalapeño honey butter corn ribs - featured image

Smoky, spicy, and sweet corn ribs infused with smoked jalapeño honey butter, perfect for cookouts and easy to prepare in under 45 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn, cut into quarters lengthwise to form ribs
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 medium fresh jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds optional)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice each ear of corn into quarters lengthwise to form about 16 ribs total. Handle carefully as the cobs can be tough on fingers. (10 minutes)
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, finely chopped jalapeño, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated. Place this butter mixture on a small foil packet and put it in the smoker or grill for about 10 minutes to infuse smoke flavor. (15 minutes)
  3. Preheat your smoker or grill to a steady 225°F (107°C). If using a grill, set up for indirect heat and add soaked wood chips (hickory or applewood recommended). (10 minutes)
  4. Lightly brush each corn rib with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote browning. (2 minutes)
  5. Place corn ribs directly on the smoker or grill grate over indirect heat. Smoke for 30-35 minutes, turning every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking and a nice smoky crust. (35 minutes)
  6. In the last 5 minutes of smoking, generously brush the ribs with the smoked jalapeño honey butter to caramelize the honey and deepen the flavor. (5 minutes)
  7. Remove the corn ribs from heat. Optionally drizzle with fresh lime juice for a bright contrast. Serve immediately while warm for the best texture. (2 minutes)

Notes

If corn ribs dry out, wrap them in foil halfway through smoking to lock in moisture. Stir butter mixture if it separates during smoking. Use a smoker box for wood chips to maintain steady smoke. Reheat leftovers gently on grill or skillet to preserve char and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked corn ribs, jalapeño honey butter, cookout recipe, smoky corn, spicy corn ribs, barbecue side dish, summer grilling