Bhutta, or roasted corn, is a beloved street food in India, especially during the monsoon season. The smoky, charred kernels seasoned with lime, salt, and spices create an irresistible snack. However, the magic of bhutta doesn’t have to be limited to street corners. Here are a few delightful bhutta recipes that you can easily recreate at home, adding a gourmet twist to this classic favorite.

1. Classic Indian Roasted Bhutta

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of fresh corn (with husks)
• 2 tablespoons of butter (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of chaat masala
• 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Corn: Peel back the husks of the corn without removing them completely. Remove the silk threads and then fold the husks back into place.
2. Roast the Corn: Place the corn on a preheated grill or directly over an open flame. Roast for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the corn is evenly charred.
3. Seasoning: Mix the chaat masala, red chili powder, and salt in a small bowl. Once the corn is roasted, peel back the husks, brush with butter if using, and sprinkle the spice mix evenly over the corn.
4. Serve: Serve immediately with lime wedges for squeezing over the top.

2. Spicy Mexican-Style Bhutta

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of fresh corn (without husks)
• 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup of crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Roast the Corn: Place the husked corn on a grill or directly over an open flame. Roast for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the corn is evenly charred.
2. Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with a pinch of salt. Spread a thin layer of this mixture over the roasted corn.
3. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese, smoked paprika, and chili powder over the corn.
4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

3. Butter Garlic Bhutta

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of fresh corn (with husks)
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Corn: Peel back the husks of the corn without removing them completely. Remove the silk threads and then fold the husks back into place.
2. Roast the Corn: Place the corn on a preheated grill or directly over an open flame. Roast for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the corn is evenly charred.
3. Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
4. Seasoning: Once the corn is roasted, peel back the husks and brush generously with the garlic butter. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Serve immediately while hot.

4. Cheesy Herb Bhutta

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of fresh corn (without husks)
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Roast the Corn: Place the husked corn on a grill or directly over an open flame. Roast for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the corn is evenly charred.
2. Prepare the Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Season the Corn: Brush the roasted corn with the olive oil mixture. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the corn.
4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

5. Tangy Lemon Bhutta

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of fresh corn (with husks)
• 3 tablespoons of lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of black salt (kala namak)
• 1 teaspoon of cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
• Fresh mint leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Corn: Peel back the husks of the corn without removing them completely. Remove the silk threads and then fold the husks back into place.
2. Roast the Corn: Place the corn on a preheated grill or directly over an open flame. Roast for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the corn is evenly charred.
3. Prepare the Lemon Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, olive oil, black salt, cumin powder, and red chili powder.
4. Season the Corn: Once the corn is roasted, peel back the husks and brush with the lemon seasoning.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.

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These bhutta recipes offer a variety of flavors and styles, allowing you to enjoy roasted corn in new and exciting ways. Whether you prefer the classic Indian style or want to try a spicy Mexican twist, these recipes are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a delightful snack on a cozy evening. Enjoy the smoky, charred goodness of bhutta with these easy-to-make recipes!