Air Fryer Corn on the Cob Recipe – Chili Lime Indian Style

Last Updated on 6 months ago by Neha Deshmukh

Air Fryer Corn on the Cob Recipe – Chili Lime Indian Style

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you love a quick and easy side dish that’s bursting with flavor. And honestly, this air fryer corn on the cob is exactly that! I first made this when I was craving something a little different from the usual buttered corn, and the chili-lime twist totally hit the spot. It’s become a regular in my kitchen, especially during the monsoon season. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average corn on the cob. We’re taking sweet, juicy corn and giving it a vibrant Indian-inspired makeover with a spicy, tangy chili-lime seasoning. The air fryer makes it unbelievably quick and easy – no more boiling or grilling! Plus, it gets a lovely char that adds so much flavor. It’s perfect as a side for barbecues, a light snack, or even a fun addition to your weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen:

• 4 ears of corn on the cob
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec! A few little things can make a big difference.

• Kashmiri Red Chili Powder: This is key for that beautiful color and mild heat. It’s a staple in many Indian kitchens, especially in Kashmiri cuisine, and adds a lovely fruity flavor. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with regular chili powder, but reduce the amount slightly as it can be spicier.
• Olive Oil: While ghee is traditionally used in Indian cooking, olive oil works beautifully here and gives a lovely flavor. You could also use avocado oil or even a neutral vegetable oil if that’s what you have on hand.
• Corn: Fresh is best, of course! But don’t worry if you only have frozen – I’ve included a note about that in the FAQs.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get down to business!

1. First, husk the corn and remove all the silk. Give them a quick rinse. Then, trim the ends so they fit nicely in your air fryer basket.
2. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This is important for getting that nice char.
3. Lightly brush each ear of corn with olive oil. This helps it get golden and crispy.
4. Place the corn in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd it!
5. Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. If you like your corn extra charred, add another 2-5 minutes. Keep an eye on it!
6. While the corn is cooking, mix the Kashmiri red chili powder and salt in a small bowl.
7. Once the corn is cooked, dip the lime wedges into the spice mix. Then, rub the spiced lime all over the corn. The lime juice helps the spices stick and adds a wonderful zing!
8. Optional: Top with a little butter and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

A few little things I’ve learned along the way:

• Don’t skip the flipping! It ensures even cooking and charring.
• For extra flavor, let the corn marinate with the chili-lime seasoning for a few minutes before serving.
• Keep a close eye on the corn during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent burning.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level Adjustment: If you’re sensitive to heat, use less chili powder or add a pinch of sugar to balance the spice. My friend, Priya, loves to add a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
• Vegan Option: Simply skip the butter or substitute it with a vegan butter alternative. A drizzle of olive oil works beautifully too.
• Festival Adaptations: This is amazing as a monsoon snack! It’s the perfect combination of spicy, tangy, and comforting. We often make a big batch during the rainy season.

Serving Suggestions

This chili-lime corn is incredibly versatile. It’s fantastic with:

• Grilled chicken or fish
• Black beans and rice
• Tacos or quesadillas
• As a side to any Indian meal – it pairs especially well with dal and roti!

Storage Instructions

Honestly, this corn is best enjoyed immediately. But if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp it up.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

• Is this recipe suitable for frozen corn? Yes, absolutely! You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Make sure to thaw the corn slightly before air frying.
• Can I grill the corn instead of using an air fryer? Definitely! Grill the corn over medium heat, turning occasionally, until slightly charred.
• What other spices can I use besides Kashmiri chili powder? You can experiment with other spices like cumin powder, coriander powder, or even a pinch of garam masala.
• How do I know when the corn is perfectly cooked in the air fryer? The kernels should be tender and slightly browned. You can pierce a kernel with a fork to check for tenderness.
• Can I prepare the chili-lime seasoning ahead of time? Yes! Mix the chili powder and salt in a small jar and store it in a cool, dry place. It will be ready to go whenever you’re craving this delicious corn.