Chili-Lime Roasted Baby Corn
Smoky, charred baby corn tossed in a zesty chili-lime butter. These bite-sized beauties roast up in minutes, with crispy edges and a juicy snap. Perfect as a snack or side dish with a cooling dip.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~5 min
Preheat the oven and prep the baby corn.
Preheat oven to 220°C (430°F). Rinse the baby corn, pat completely dry with a kitchen towel, and slice larger ones in half lengthwise so all pieces cook evenly.
TIPDry corn roasts crispier — moisture creates steam, which ruins the char. - mix · ~2 min
Make the chili-lime butter.
1.Melt butter in a small bowl and let it cool slightly.2.Whisk in lime juice, minced garlic, red chili powder, cumin powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined. - mix · ~2 min
Coat the baby corn.
1.Place the baby corn in a mixing bowl and drizzle with 1 tsp oil.2.Toss well so every piece is lightly coated.3.Pour the chili-lime butter over the corn and toss again until evenly dressed.TIPUse your hands for most even coating — the oil and butter mixture should coat every spear. - roast · ~15 min
Roast until charred and tender.
1.Arrange the corn in a single layer on a roasting tray — do not overcrowd.2.Roast for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until edges are blistered and lightly charred.TIPSwitch to broil for the last 2 minutes for deeper char — watch closely so it doesn't burn. - garnish
Finish with fresh coriander and serve immediately.
Transfer the hot roasted baby corn to a serving plate, scatter generously with chopped coriander, and serve right away — the crisp edges soften as it sits.
TIPA final squeeze of fresh lime at the table wakes up all the flavors.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Pat baby corn exceptionally dry before roasting to ensure maximum char and crispness.
- 2Use a high-smoke-point oil like avocado or grapeseed to prevent burning during the hot roast.
- 3Flip the corn halfway through roasting for even browning and tender results.
- 4For extra smoky flavor, finish under the broiler for the last 2 minutes — watch closely.
- 5Serve immediately after roasting; the crispy texture softens quickly as it cools.
- 6Make ahead by prepping the chili-lime butter and cleaning the corn; toss and roast just before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace butter with melted coconut oil or vegan butter for a fully plant-based version that still roasts to a perfect char.
extra spicyExtra-spicy
Add 1/2 teaspoon of finely chopped green bird's eye chili or a pinch of cayenne to the butter for those who crave intense heat.
cheesyCheesy
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan or cotija cheese over the hot corn just before serving for a salty, umami twist.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Baby corn provides dietary fiber which supports healthy digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Low in Calories
This dish is light and satisfying, with baby corn containing very few calories per serving, making it a smart snack choice.
Good Source of B Vitamins
Baby corn offers B vitamins like folate and niacin, which aid energy metabolism and skin health.
Contains Antioxidants
Cumin and chili powder bring antioxidant compounds that help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but thaw completely and pat extra dry with paper towels — frozen corn releases more water, which can prevent charring.
