Get ready to elevate your corn game with our irresistible Bang Bang Corn recipe! This dish takes the classic summer staple to a whole new level with a creamy spicy kick inspired by the famous Bang Bang sauce. Originating from Asian fusion cuisine this sauce blends sweet chili heat with tangy mayo creating a flavor explosion that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
We’re obsessed with how easy it is to transform simple grilled or boiled corn into a showstopping side or snack. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard BBQ or looking for a quick appetizer to impress your guests this recipe delivers bold flavors in every bite. It’s the perfect balance of sweet savory and spicy all in one.
About Bang Bang Corn
Dive into the irresistible world of Bang Bang Corn—a dish that transforms humble corn into a flavor-packed sensation. Inspired by Asian fusion cuisine, this recipe combines the sweetness of corn with a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or looking for a standout appetizer, this dish offers a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and spicy notes that will leave everyone craving more.
What Makes Bang Bang Corn Special
Let’s talk about why Bang Bang Corn stands out. At its core, it’s all about the sauce—a luscious blend of sweet chili sauce and tangy mayonnaise with a kick of heat that coats each kernel in glossy perfection. The name “Bang Bang” nods to the explosive flavors that hit your palate with every bite. We love how this recipe takes a classic vegetable and elevates it into something extraordinary. Picture this: golden corn grilled to smoky perfection, drizzled with a sauce that clings to every curve, delivering a creamy texture with a fiery punch. It’s not just food—it’s an experience.
Origins and Inspiration
The roots of Bang Bang Corn lie in the popular Bang Bang Shrimp dish often found in Asian-American eateries. We’ve adapted this concept to create a vegetarian-friendly version that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Drawing from the bold profiles of Thai and Chinese cuisines, the sauce balances sweetness with heat—a hallmark of Asian fusion. Our twist brings this vibrant energy to corn, making it a versatile side or snack for any occasion. As we crafted this recipe, we aimed to capture the essence of street food flair while keeping it simple enough for home cooks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why we’re obsessed with Bang Bang Corn and why you will be too:
- Quick and Easy: From grill to plate in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at BBQs, a snack for game night, or even a bold appetizer.
- Flavor Explosion: The sauce delivers a trifecta of taste—sweetness from chili sauce, creaminess from mayo, and a spicy kick that lingers.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique profile makes it a standout that guests will talk about long after the meal.
We’ve fine-tuned this recipe to ensure every bite is packed with personality. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking to switch up your corn game, this dish has something for everyone.
Nutritional Highlights
For those curious about what’s in this tasty treat, we’ve broken down some key nutritional aspects based on a standard serving of Bang Bang Corn (approximately one ear of corn with sauce). Keep in mind that values may vary based on preparation and portion size.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 220 | Includes corn and sauce |
| Total Fat | 12g | Mostly from mayonnaise in sauce |
| Carbohydrates | 25g | Primarily from corn |
| Protein | 4g | Natural protein from corn |
| Sodium | 300mg | Adjust based on sauce ingredients |
This table gives a snapshot of what you’re getting with each serving. We recommend balancing the richness of the sauce with lighter sides if you’re watching your intake. But let’s be honest—every once in a while, a little indulgence like Bang Bang Corn is worth it for the sheer joy it brings to the table.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Corn Recipe
Let’s gather everything we need to create the irresistible Bang Bang Corn dish. With simple ingredients and our signature sauce, we’ll whip up a flavor explosion in no time.
Main Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn (husked and cleaned)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat for creamy texture)
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce (for that perfect sweet-spicy kick)
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice (freshly squeezed for brightness)
- 1 teaspoon honey (to balance the flavors)
- 1 small garlic clove (minced or grated for subtle depth)
Equipment Needed
To whip up our irresistible Bang Bang Corn, having the right tools on hand makes the process smooth and enjoyable. We’ve streamlined the equipment list to ensure you can focus on crafting this flavor-packed sensation without any hassle. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, these essentials will help you achieve that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy in every bite of this Asian fusion-inspired dish.
Essential Tools for Preparation
Let’s gather the gear that will transform humble corn into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece. Here’s what we need to prepare and cook our Bang Bang Corn with ease:
- Grill or Grill Pan: Perfect for achieving those smoky charred marks on the corn. If you’re indoors, a grill pan works wonders on the stovetop.
- Tongs: Essential for safely turning the corn on the grill to ensure even cooking and to avoid burns.
- Sharp Knife: Needed to cut the corn into halves or smaller pieces if desired after grilling for easier serving.
- Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface for prepping and slicing the corn post-cooking.
- Small Mixing Bowl: Ideal for whisking together the luscious Bang Bang sauce with all its creamy and spicy components.
- Whisk or Spoon: Helps blend the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and other ingredients into a glossy, cohesive sauce.
- Measuring Spoons: Ensures precision when adding ingredients like lime juice, honey, and sriracha for the perfect flavor balance.
- Basting Brush: Useful for evenly coating the corn with olive oil before grilling and applying the Bang Bang sauce afterward.
- Serving Platter: Showcases your beautifully grilled and sauced Bang Bang Corn for an impressive presentation at BBQs or gatherings.
Optional Equipment for Added Flair
For those of us looking to elevate the experience or streamline certain steps, these additional tools can enhance the preparation of our street food-inspired dish:
- Corn Holders: Handy for gripping the corn while eating, especially when it’s slathered in that addictive glossy sauce.
- Microplane or Garlic Press: Makes mincing garlic for the sauce a breeze, ensuring a fine texture that blends seamlessly.
- Squeeze Bottle: Optional for drizzling the Bang Bang sauce over the corn with precision, creating an Instagram-worthy finish.
Instructions for Bang Bang Corn Recipe
Let’s dive into creating our irresistible Bang Bang Corn with step-by-step guidance. Follow these instructions to achieve a dish bursting with sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that will wow your guests.
Prep the Corn
Start by prepping the fresh corn to ensure it’s ready for cooking. Peel back the husks without removing them completely and strip away the silk. Fold the husks back over the corn to protect it during cooking. If you prefer a cleaner look or are using a grill pan, remove the husks entirely and wrap each ear in aluminum foil. Set the prepared corn aside on a tray for easy access during the cooking process.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce
Next, whip up the signature Bang Bang Sauce that gives this dish its explosive flavor. In a small mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of sweet chili sauce, 1 teaspoon of sriracha (adjust for heat preference), 1 tablespoon of lime juice, 1 teaspoon of honey, and 1 minced garlic clove. Whisk until smooth and glossy. Taste and tweak the balance of sweetness or spice by adding more honey or sriracha if needed. Transfer the sauce to a squeeze bottle or keep it in the bowl for brushing later. Set this flavor bomb aside to let the ingredients meld.
Cook the Corn
Now it’s time to cook the corn to tender perfection. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Brush each ear of corn with 1 teaspoon of olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Place the corn on the grill—if husks are on, position them away from direct flame. Cook for 10-12 minutes and turn every 3 minutes to ensure even charring and a smoky aroma. You’ll know it’s ready when the kernels are bright yellow and slightly caramelized with grill marks. Remove the corn using tongs and let it cool for 2 minutes before handling. If using husks, peel them back or remove foil to expose the kernels.
Assemble and Serve
Finally, bring the Bang Bang Corn to life with a stunning finish. Use a sharp knife to cut the corn into halves or thirds for easier serving if desired. Brush or drizzle the prepared Bang Bang Sauce generously over each piece ensuring every kernel gets coated in that creamy spicy goodness. For an extra pop, sprinkle with chopped cilantro or a dash of chili powder for color and heat. Serve immediately while the corn is warm and the sauce is glistening. Watch as your guests rave about this unforgettable dish at your next BBQ or gathering.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Bang Bang Corn ahead of time can save us precious minutes during busy gatherings or summer BBQs. With its irresistible spicy-sweet sauce and tender grilled corn, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that can be prepped in advance without losing its vibrant flavors. Let’s dive into our top strategies for making Bang Bang Corn ahead of time while ensuring it remains as fresh and delicious as the day it’s served.
Prep the Corn in Advance
To streamline our cooking process, we can husk and clean the fresh corn up to a day before serving. Remove the husks and silk, then wrap each ear tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the corn moist and ready for grilling. If we prefer a cleaner look for grilling, we can also wrap the corn in foil at this stage and store it until we’re ready to cook. Just ensure the corn is brought to room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling to promote even cooking.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead
The signature Bang Bang Sauce is the heart of this recipe, and the good news is it can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. Combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, honey, and minced garlic in a small mixing bowl. Whisk until smooth and store the sauce in an airtight container or jar in the fridge. Not only does this save time, but it also allows the flavors to meld together, creating an even more explosive taste. Before serving, give the sauce a quick stir to refresh its glossy texture. For easy drizzling, transfer it to a squeeze bottle after preparing.
Grill and Store for Later
If we want to go a step further, we can grill the corn ahead of time. Grill the ears as instructed—brushing with olive oil and seasoning with salt and black pepper—until they’re tender and lightly charred. Allow the corn to cool completely, then wrap each ear individually in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the corn on a grill or in a hot oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to restore its warmth and slight char. Cut the kernels off the cob (if desired) and coat with the pre-made Bang Bang Sauce just before serving to maintain that glossy perfection.
Garnishing Tips for Freshness
Garnishes like chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of chili powder add a final pop to our Bang Bang Corn. However, these should be added only when we’re ready to serve to keep them vibrant and fresh. Store garnishes separately in small containers in the fridge if prepping ahead. This ensures the herbs don’t wilt and the spices retain their bold color and aroma.
Time-Saving Breakdown
To help us plan effectively, here’s a quick overview of make-ahead timelines for Bang Bang Corn components:
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Reheating/Finishing Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Husked Corn | Up to 1 day | Airtight container or plastic wrap | Bring to room temp before grilling |
| Bang Bang Sauce | Up to 3 days | Airtight container or jar in fridge | Stir before use; use squeeze bottle if desired |
| Grilled Corn | Up to 2 days | Wrapped in plastic wrap or foil in fridge | Reheat at 350°F for 5-10 mins before saucing |
| Garnishes (Cilantro/Chili) | Up to 1 day | Small container in fridge | Add just before serving for freshness |
By following these make-ahead tips, we ensure that our Bang Bang Corn remains a stress-free yet show-stopping dish. Whether we’re hosting a BBQ or preparing a quick weeknight side, these steps keep the flavors bold and the prep effortless.
Serving Suggestions
Dive into the versatility of Bang Bang Corn with us as we explore the best ways to present this explosive dish at your table. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or a cozy family dinner, this flavor-packed side can steal the show with its creamy, spicy allure. Let’s uncover how to pair and serve this Asian fusion-inspired corn to maximize enjoyment for every occasion.
Perfect Pairings for Bang Bang Corn
Elevate your meal by pairing Bang Bang Corn with complementary dishes that balance its rich and spicy profile. Here are some of our top picks:
- Grilled Proteins: Serve alongside juicy grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp to create a hearty feast. The smoky char of grilled meats enhances the sweet-spicy sauce coating the corn.
- Light Salads: Offset the indulgence with a crisp green salad or a tangy coleslaw. The freshness cuts through the creamy Bang Bang sauce for a refreshing contrast.
- Asian-Inspired Mains: Match it with teriyaki chicken or beef stir-fry to echo the Asian fusion vibes. The corn’s bold flavors harmonize beautifully with soy and ginger notes.
- Tacos or Wraps: Use the corn as a vibrant topping for fish tacos or lettuce wraps. Its glossy Bang Bang glaze adds a punch of flavor to every bite.
Creative Presentation Ideas
Make your Bang Bang Corn a visual and culinary centerpiece with these presentation tips:
- On the Cob with Flair: Serve the corn on the cob with the Bang Bang sauce drizzled over top using a squeeze bottle for a sleek look. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and a pinch of chili powder for a pop of color. Secure with corn holders for easy handling.
- Kernel Bowls: Cut the kernels off the cob and toss them in the spicy-sweet sauce. Serve in small bowls or cups as a grab-and-go appetizer at parties. Add a lime wedge on the side for a zesty squeeze.
- Family-Style Platter: Arrange grilled corn cobs on a rustic wooden board. Drizzle with the Bang Bang sauce and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Let guests dig in for a shared, interactive experience.
Serving Tips for Different Occasions
Tailor how you serve Bang Bang Corn based on the vibe of your gathering:
- Casual BBQs: Keep it simple by wrapping each cob in foil after saucing to retain heat. Set up a topping station with extra Bang Bang sauce, lime wedges, and chili flakes for customization.
- Elegant Dinners: Plate individual portions with a single cob or a small mound of kernels. Drizzle with sauce in a zigzag pattern for a refined touch and pair with a sophisticated main like grilled salmon.
- Game Day Snacks: Serve in disposable cups as a mess-free finger food. The creamy-spicy kick of Bang Bang Corn is perfect for cheering on your team with bold flavors.
Nutritional Balance
While Bang Bang Corn is an indulgent treat, we can balance its richness by considering portion sizes and pairings. Below is a quick guide to its nutritional profile per serving (based on 4 servings total) to help you plan your menu mindfully:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Sodium | 320mg |
Pair this dish with lighter sides like steamed veggies or a fruit salad to keep your meal well-rounded. As we savor the explosive flavors of this corn, a little mindfulness ensures everyone leaves the table satisfied without overindulging.
Timing and Temperature Tips
Serve Bang Bang Corn hot off the grill for the ultimate sensory experience where the warm kernels meld with the cool, creamy Bang Bang sauce. If prepared ahead, reheat gently on a grill or in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to revive that just-cooked texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make the sauce separate. Always add garnishes like fresh cilantro or a lime squeeze right before serving to preserve their vibrant street food flair.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled to share this Bang Bang Corn recipe with you as it’s a game-changer for any meal. This dish brings a burst of flavor that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds.
If you’ve tried it let us know how it turned out in the comments. We’d love to hear your creative twists or pairing ideas.
Don’t forget to pin this recipe for your next gathering. Trust us it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bang Bang Corn?
Bang Bang Corn is a flavorful dish inspired by Asian fusion cuisine, featuring grilled corn coated in a creamy, spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. It’s a vegetarian twist on the popular Bang Bang Shrimp, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Ideal as a side or snack, it’s easy to prepare and a crowd-pleaser at summer BBQs or gatherings.
How do you make Bang Bang Sauce for corn?
To make Bang Bang Sauce, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, honey, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if desired. This glossy, creamy sauce is then brushed or drizzled over grilled corn for an explosive flavor. It can be made up to three days ahead and stored in the fridge.
Can Bang Bang Corn be made ahead of time?
Yes, Bang Bang Corn can be prepped ahead! Husk and clean the corn a day in advance, make the sauce up to three days prior, and even grill the corn early. Store everything in the fridge, then reheat the corn gently before serving. Add garnishes like cilantro or chili powder just before serving for freshness.
What are the best ways to serve Bang Bang Corn?
Serve Bang Bang Corn hot off the grill as a side at BBQs, paired with grilled proteins or light salads. It also works as an appetizer or taco topping. For presentation, drizzle sauce over corn on the cob or serve kernels in small bowls for easy snacking at casual or elegant gatherings.
Is Bang Bang Corn spicy?
Bang Bang Corn has a mild to moderate spice level due to sriracha and sweet chili sauce in the Bang Bang Sauce. You can adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the sriracha, making it suitable for various taste preferences while maintaining its signature sweet and savory balance.
What are the nutritional highlights of Bang Bang Corn?
Per serving, Bang Bang Corn contains moderate calories, fat, carbohydrates, protein, and sodium due to the creamy sauce. Exact values depend on portion size and ingredients. Pair it with lighter sides like salads to balance its richness, making it a delightful yet mindful treat for any meal.
What ingredients do you need for Bang Bang Corn?
You’ll need 4 ears of fresh corn, olive oil, salt, and black pepper for grilling. For the Bang Bang Sauce, gather mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, honey, and garlic. Optional garnishes like cilantro or chili powder can enhance flavor and presentation for this tasty dish.