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Charred Street-Style Corn with Spicy Lime Coating

This dish involves grilling whole corn directly over hot coals until the kernels crackle and blacken, creating a smoky aroma and charred exterior. The final presentation features juicy, slightly crispy kernels coated in a spicy, tangy lime and seasoning mixture, with a visual contrast of blackened tips and glossy coating.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Street Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob preferably with husks intact
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt

Equipment

  • Charcoal grill or barbecue
  • Tongs
  • Bowl
  • Brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat your charcoal grill until the coals are glowing red and covered with a light ash. Keep the lid aside to allow for direct grilling.
  2. Carefully peel back the husks of each ear of corn without detaching them completely, then remove any silk inside. Fold the husks back except for the tips, exposing the kernels.
  3. Place the corn directly over the hot coals, turning frequently with tongs. Listen for the kernels to crackle and watch as they start to blacken and blister, about 10-15 minutes.
  4. Once the kernels are evenly charred and fragrant with smoky aroma, carefully remove the ears from the grill and set aside to cool slightly.
  5. Melt the butter and in a small bowl, combine with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to create a spicy lime butter.
  6. Brush the hot, charred corn generously with the spicy lime butter using a basting brush, ensuring each kernel gets a sticky, glossy coating.
  7. Finish by squeezing extra lime over the coated ears for added tang and sprinkle with additional salt if desired.
  8. Serve the grilled corn hot, with some extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing. Enjoy the smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors in every juicy bite.