India Bhutta (Indian Grilled Corn)
Bhutta, or grilled Indian corn, is a beloved street food snack enjoyed throughout India, especially during the monsoon season. Vendors grill fresh corn cobs over open flames, charring them to smoky perfection before slathering them with a tangy and spicy spice mixture. This dish celebrates the simple joy of fresh, seasonal produce combined with bold flavors like chili, salt, and lime. Popular in both rural and urban areas, bhutta evokes nostalgia for rainy days and bustling markets. The rustic preparation of this snack, using just fire and basic seasonings, makes it an enduring favorite among people of all ages.
Recipe Servings: 2
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
15 minutes
Vegetarian
Vegan
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Kosher
Halal
Ingredients
- 2 fresh corn cobs, husked
- 1 Tbsp (15 ml) oil
- ½ tsp (2 g) chili powder (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp (2 g) salt
- ½ tsp (2 g) chaat masala (optional, for added tang)
- 1 lime or lemon, cut into wedges
Directions
- Husk the corn cobs and remove any silk strands.
- If desired, lightly brush the corn with oil to enhance the flavor and prevent sticking.
- Heat a grill or stovetop flame to medium-high.
- Place the corn directly on the grill or over the flame, turning occasionally with tongs.
- Roast for 8–12 minutes until the kernels are evenly charred, with a mix of golden and blackened spots.
- In a small bowl, mix chili powder, salt, and chaat masala (if using).
- Squeeze a lime or lemon wedge over the spice mixture and stir to combine into a paste-like consistency.
- Rub the prepared spice mix over the grilled corn while it is still warm. Use a lime wedge to spread the mixture evenly over the kernels for added tang and flavor.
- Serve the bhutta hot with extra lime wedges on the side.
- Enjoy this smoky, tangy snack as a quick bite or accompaniment to other dishes.
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