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Corn with Chili Lime Butter Recipe

4.4 from 81 reviews

This recipe features fresh sweet corn baked in the husk and topped with a zesty chili lime butter, creating a perfect blend of smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors. The corn is baked until tender and then brushed with a flavorful mix of butter, lime zest, lime juice, ancho and chipotle chili powders, and minced garlic, making it a delicious side dish ideal for barbecues or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Corn

  • 10 ears fresh sweet corn (with husks)

Chili Lime Butter

  • 1/2 cup salted butter (softened)
  • Zest and juice of 2 limes
  • 2 teaspoons ancho chili pepper
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle pepper
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)

Garnish

  • 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) to prepare for baking the corn in its husks, which steams the kernels to tender perfection.
  2. Bake the corn: Place the corn ears, still in their husks, directly on a baking sheet on the center oven rack. Bake for 45 minutes or until the corn is tender when pierced.
  3. Cool the corn: Remove the corn from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes; this makes it easier to handle when applying the butter mixture.
  4. Prepare chili lime butter: In a small bowl, combine softened salted butter, lime zest, lime juice, ancho chili pepper, chipotle pepper, and minced garlic. Mix thoroughly to blend flavors evenly.
  5. Brush the corn: Carefully peel back the corn husks without removing them completely and use a pastry brush to generously coat the warm corn with the chili lime butter mixture, allowing the butter to melt into the kernels.
  6. Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for an added fresh, herbaceous flavor. Serve immediately while warm for the best taste experience.

Notes

  • Keeping the corn in its husks while baking steams the kernels, preserving moisture and tenderness.
  • Adjust the amount of chili powders to your preferred spice level.
  • Softened butter is essential for easy mixing and spreading.
  • The cilantro garnish is optional but adds freshness and color.
  • Make sure to let the corn cool slightly before handling to avoid burns.
  • Leftover chili lime butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week and used on other grilled vegetables or meats.

Keywords: corn, chili lime butter, baked corn, sweet corn, Mexican side dish, ancho chili, chipotle, lime, garlic butter, cilantro garnish