High Protein Spicy Corn Ribs

Bring bold flavors and a protein-packed twist to your table with these High Protein Spicy Corn Ribs! This innovative plant-based recipe transforms sweet, juicy corn on the cob into crispy, rib-inspired bites coated in a crave-worthy spiced tofu crust. Packed with protein from extra-firm tofu and chickpea flour, each piece is seasoned to perfection with smoky paprika, zesty cumin, and a kick of chili powder. Air fryer or oven-friendly, these crispy corn ribs cook to golden perfection in minutes, making them a fun and nutritious snack or side dish. Finish with a burst of lime and fresh cilantro for a zesty garnish, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s gluten-free, vegan, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for health-conscious eaters and spice lovers alike!

Nutriscore Rating: 82/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 pieces Ears of corn
• 200 grams Extra-firm tofu
• 60 grams Chickpea flour
• 2 teaspoons Smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon Chili powder
• 1.5 teaspoons Salt
• 0.5 teaspoons Black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons Nutritional yeast
• 120 milliliters Unsweetened plant-based milk
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 2 teaspoons Hot sauce
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• 4 pieces Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) or set your air fryer to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil your air fryer basket.

Step 2

Carefully cut each ear of corn into quarters lengthwise to create 'ribs.' (Tip: Use a sharp knife and apply steady pressure to avoid splitting the corn unevenly.)

Step 3

Drain and pat the tofu dry using paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth. Use a fork to crumble the tofu into small, fine pieces, mimicking bread crumbs.

Step 4

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpea flour, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and nutritional yeast. Mix well to create the spice coating.

Step 5

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk, olive oil, and hot sauce to create a wet batter.

Step 6

Dip each corn rib into the wet batter, ensuring it is evenly coated. Then, roll it in the spice coating mixture, pressing the tofu crumbs onto the corn to adhere well.

Step 7

Place the coated corn ribs onto the prepared baking sheet or air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 8

Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the corn ribs are golden brown, crispy, and tender.

Step 9

Remove the corn ribs from the oven or air fryer. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1082 grams (1082.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1247

Total Fat 54.90g	70%
Saturated Fat 8.20g	41%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4053mg	176%
Total Carbohydrate 148.00g	54%
Dietary Fiber 32.80g	117%
Total Sugars 37.20g
Protein 65.50g	131%

Vitamin D 51IU	254%
Calcium 1663mg	128%
Iron 16mg	87%
Potassium 2698mg	57%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 36.7%

Protein: 19.4%

Carbs: 43.9%