Air Fryer Corn On The Cob (Pakistani Bhutta)

This air fryer corn on the cob (Pakistani bhutta) recipe replicates a nostalgic childhood favorite in just 20 minutes!

Charred corn, known as bhutta, is a quintessential street food in Pakistan. Traditionally roasted over hot coals to a perfect char, this is a popular snack.

Tangy lemon and a simple spice blend are added to the bhutta, resulting in a mouthwatering medley of flavors.

This street-style corn makes a perfect snack or side dish. Pair it with some Roasted Leg of Goat (Raan), Pakistani Chicken Steam Roast, or Grilled Tandoori Lamb Chops.

Why you'll love this recipe

• Minimal ingredients: There's no need to run to the store with a long list in hand for this easy recipe. All the ingredients are basic pantry staples.
• Short cooking time: The beauty of this air fryer corn on the cob lies in its simplicity and speed.  With a cook time of 20 minutes or less, this is a quick and easy snack or side to prepare.
• Easy cooking method: Imagine enjoying grilled corn with ease and replicating the traditional roasting method with far less effort and mess.
• Perfect char every time: The circulating hot air creates that perfect char on the kernels while keeping them juicy and tender inside.

Ingredient notes

• Fresh corn: Select fresh corn on the cob with bright green husks and plump, tender kernels. The fresher the corn, the sweeter and more tender your bhutta will be.
• Oil: Lightly baste the corn cobs with some high-smoke-point oil, such as avocado, canola, or sunflower, to help develop the perfect color, taste, and texture.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is crucial for the bright, tangy flavor that enhances all the other flavors of the bhutta.
• Spices: The spices used are a mix of salt to enhance the sweetness of the corn, red chili powder for some heat, and Kashmiri chili powder for a vibrant color.

For the complete list of ingredients, measurements, and recipe instructions, please refer to the recipe card located at the bottom of this post.

Substitutions & variations

• Use frozen corn: Frozen corn works just as well as fresh one for this air fryer corn on the cob recipe. This means no extra time spent shucking and cleaning. Plus, you can enjoy this Pakistani street-style air fryer corn long past summer, even when it's over. Place the frozen cobs directly in the air fryer and cook according to the instructions in the recipe card below.
• Use a different spice blend: If using red chili powder is too spicy for you, try paprika as an alternative. You can also experiment with spices like amchur, used in my bhindi masala (air fryer okra curry), or chaat masala, used in my corn masala chaat recipe. These spices will add all the necessary flavor, without too much heat.
• Make global variations: Prepare the corn as detailed in the recipe card below. Then top with some cotija cheese, lime, red chili flakes, and chopped cilantro to bring a Mexican flair to this recipe. Conversely, use a Cajun, taco, BBQ, or even an Italian spice blend for the occasional change in flavor.

Step-by-step instructions

• Step 1: Remove the husk and silky strands of the corn, then wash and pat each cob dry. Cut off the ends, if needed, to allow the corn to fit in the air fryer.

• Step 2: Brush each piece of corn with your preferred cooking oil and place it in the air fryer basket.

• Step 3: Cook the corn in your air fryer at 400°F for about 20 minutes, turning it over halfway through the cooking process. I usually check it after 8 minutes to ensure it isn't overcooked, and after turning it, I like to check it again at the 5-minute mark. All air fryers work differently, so you may need to adjust the time by 3-5 minutes.

Expert Tips

Recipe FAQS