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Grilled corn on the cob with chipotle lime butter is the dish that turns every backyard gathering into a summer celebration It always disappears first from our table thanks to its smoky char and lively spicy butter
I remember making this on a camping trip thinking I would have leftovers but every ear vanished in a flash even with picky eaters around
Ingredients
- Butter or alternative: adds creaminess and carries the flavors choose unsalted real butter for best texture
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: deliver smokiness and spice look for whole peppers in a small can and adjust amount as you like
- Kosher salt: enhances flavor opt for flaky or smoked salt for more interest
- Cinnamon: adds depth giving a subtle warmth try Ceylon cinnamon for a gentle finish
- Cumin: delivers a toasty earthiness fresh ground cumin is ideal
- Lime zest: brings a burst of citrusy brightness use a firm ripe lime for max zest and juice
- Cracked black pepper: for subtle heat freshly cracked is much more fragrant
- Fresh corn on the cob: provides sweetness and crunch buy ears with bright green husks and golden silk for freshness
- Cilantro: gives a crisp herbal bite select bunches with green fronds for best aroma
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Grill:
- Heat your grill to medium high temperature which means you should be able to hold your hand above the grates for just a few seconds before it feels hot This allows for quick charring without burning
- Prepare the Chipotle Lime Butter:
- Place chipotle peppers salt cinnamon cumin lime zest and cracked pepper into a food processor Pulse until the mixture is in tiny flecks but not entirely smooth Add the room temperature butter and pulse just until blended Small chunks of chipotle and lime zest should remain for flavor bursts If you do not have a processor finely mince all solid ingredients then stir into soft butter by hand
- Prep the Corn:
- Remove husks and gently rub off all the corns silk Rinse the ears and pat dry This prevents the corn from burning and helps the butter stick better later
- Grill the Corn:
- Place cleaned cobs onto the greased grill grates Cover with the grill lid Rotate the ears every two to three minutes so each side develops golden spots with a few char marks This takes about ten minutes The slight charring brings out a deep roasted flavor
- Slather with Chipotle Butter:
- Carefully remove hot corn from the grill Immediately spread generous amounts of the chipotle lime butter onto each ear so it melts into all the nooks
- Finish and Serve:
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top while corn is still warm Sprinkle liberally with chopped cilantro and a little extra salt if you like Serve right away with a few lime wedges on the side
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Nothing compares to the aroma of corn roasting outdoors For me the best part of this recipe is zesting the lime its smell always reminds me of fun summer afternoons with friends and how one simple flavor can brighten any meal
Storage tips
Store leftover grilled corn in an airtight container in the fridge It stays good for about four days To reheat wrap in foil and warm over a medium grill or in a hot oven until hot You can also slice the kernels off the cob and add to salads or soups for an easy leftover upgrade
Ingredient substitutions
No chipotle pepper on hand Swap for smoked paprika and a small pinch of cayenne for heat Any fresh green herb like parsley can stand in for cilantro Use vegan butter or even a drizzle of roasted olive oil to make this dairy free
Serving suggestions
Serve alongside grilled meats or pile high with black beans for a southwestern vegetarian snack It pairs well with simple tomato salads tacos or as a topping for chowder bowls
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Cultural and seasonal context
Corn is celebrated across many cultures as a symbol of summer This dish channels Mexican street corn vibes but with a lighter twist Perfect for barbecues picnics and Fourth of July gatherings
Recipe FAQs
- → How spicy is the chipotle butter?
The chipotle butter has a medium level of heat. You can adjust the spiciness by using one or two chipotle peppers and adding extra 'juice' from the can if desired.
- → Can I use something other than butter?
Yes, you can substitute with soy butter or olive oil for a dairy-free or vegan-friendly option. The flavor holds up well with these swaps.
- → How do I prevent the corn from burning on the grill?
Keep the grill at medium-high heat and turn the cobs every two to three minutes. A little charring adds flavor, but frequent turning keeps it from burning.
- → How far ahead can I prepare the chipotle butter?
You can make the chipotle butter up to one week in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It also freezes well for longer storage.
- → What garnishes go well with this corn?
Fresh cilantro and lime wedges are excellent garnishes. They add brightness and fresh flavor to the smoky, spicy corn.
- → Does leftover corn keep well?
Yes, store any leftover corn in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat as desired or enjoy cold in salads.