Chili-Lime Roasted Baby Corn
This Chili-Lime Roasted Baby Corn is a vibrant and flavorful side dish or snack that comes together in under 30 minutes. Roasting enhances the natural sweetness of the baby corn, perfectly complemented by a zesty kick from chili, lime, and smoky paprika.
For 2 servings
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
If using fresh baby corn, rinse it thoroughly under cold water and pat completely dry with paper towels. If using frozen, ensure it's fully thawed and patted dry.
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Add the dried baby corn to the bowl and toss until each piece is evenly coated with the spice mixture.
Spread the seasoned baby corn in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure there's enough space between the pieces to allow for proper roasting and browning, avoiding overcrowding.
Roast for 15-20 minutes, flipping or shaking the pan halfway through (around 8-10 minutes), until the baby corn is tender-crisp and slightly charred or browned in spots.
Once roasted, remove the baby corn from the oven and transfer it to a serving dish. Squeeze the fresh lime juice generously over the hot corn.
Sprinkle with the freshly chopped cilantro. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately as a delicious side dish or snack.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't overcrowd the pan: For crispy, well-roasted baby corn, ensure they are spread in a single layer with space in between. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- 2Pat dry thoroughly: Excess moisture will steam the corn instead of roasting it, preventing that desirable tender-crisp texture and slight char.
- 3Adjust spice to taste: Feel free to increase or decrease the chili powder based on your preferred spice level. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- 4Serve immediately: Roasted baby corn is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when it's at its most tender-crisp and flavorful.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb Swap
Instead of cilantro, try fresh parsley or a mix of mint and cilantro for a different aromatic profile.
Sweet & SpicySweet & Spicy
Add 1/2 teaspoon of maple syrup or a pinch of brown sugar to the spice mix before roasting for a touch of sweetness that balances the chili and lime.
Garlic BoostGarlic Boost
For a stronger garlic flavor, mince 1-2 cloves of fresh garlic and add them to the olive oil mixture instead of garlic powder.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Baby corn is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Vitamin C Boost
Lime provides a significant amount of Vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
Antioxidant Power
Chili powder and smoked paprika are rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body and reduce oxidative stress.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use frozen baby corn. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it very dry with paper towels before tossing with the oil and spices to ensure it roasts properly and doesn't become soggy.
