Grilled Irish Honey Butter Corn: The Ultimate Sweet & Smoky Side Dish

Introduction

Elevate your backyard barbecue with this mouthwatering Grilled Irish Honey Butter Corn recipe. There is something truly magical about the combination of smoky, charred sweet corn and the rich, creamy texture of high-quality Irish butter. Unlike standard butter, Irish butter brings a higher fat content and a deeper yellow hue, creating a luxurious coating that perfectly balances with the natural sweetness of honey. This dish isn't just a side; it's a showstopper that captures the essence of summer dining. Whether you are firing up your Arteflame grill for a family gathering or a quiet dinner under the stars, this recipe promises to deliver a savory-sweet explosion of flavor that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Get ready to transform humble corn on the cob into a gourmet experience that highlights fresh ingredients and open-fire cooking.

Ingredients

• 6 ears of fresh sweet corn, husks and silks removed
• 1/2 cup Irish butter (such as Kerrygold), softened to room temperature
• 1/4 cup raw honey
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for depth)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Butter Mixture

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened Irish butter, raw honey, sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Whisk or stir the ingredients vigorously until they are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Set the mixture aside at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld while you prep the grill.

Step 2: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Fire up your Arteflame grill. Aim for a medium-high heat on the flat cooktop surface.
2. Allow the grill to reach the optimal temperature where water beads up and sizzles when sprinkled on the cooktop.
3. Lightly oil the cooktop surface with a high-smoke point oil (like grapeseed or canola) to ensure the corn does not stick.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

1. Place the shucked corn ears directly onto the flat steel cooktop of the Arteflame.
2. Grill the corn for approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Turn the corn frequently with tongs to ensure even cooking and to achieve a beautiful golden-brown char on all sides. You want the kernels to be tender and slightly caramelized, not burnt.

Step 4: Baste and Serve

1. During the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush a generous amount of the honey butter mixture onto each ear of corn using a basting brush.
2. Let the butter melt into the hot kernels and caramelize slightly on the griddle surface.
3. Remove the corn from the grill and transfer to a serving platter.
4. Brush any remaining butter over the corn and garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving hot.

Tips

To get the most out of this recipe, ensure your corn is as fresh as possible; the sugars begin to turn to starch the moment it is picked, so buying from a local farm stand is ideal. When using an Arteflame grill, utilize the different heat zones effectively. Start by searing the corn closer to the center grate for those beautiful char marks, then move the ears toward the outer edge of the cooktop to finish roasting gently without burning the sugars in the corn. Using room temperature butter is crucial for creating a smooth, emulsified mixture with the honey; if the butter is too cold, it won't blend evenly and may separate on the grill. Finally, don't be afraid to season generously with salt. The sweetness of the corn and honey needs the savory counterpoint of sea salt to truly make the flavors pop.

Variations

While the classic honey and Irish butter combo is a crowd-pleaser, don't hesitate to get creative based on your palate. The versatility of grilled corn allows for numerous flavor profiles that can match whatever main course you are serving. If you enjoy a bit of heat to cut through the sweetness, adding spices works wonders, or you can lean into savory herbs for a more earth-tone profile. Here are a few distinct variations to try on your next cookout:

• Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or cayenne powder to the butter mixture for a sweet heat.
• Garlic Lover's: Mix 2 cloves of minced garlic into the butter for a robust, savory punch.
• Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one lime or orange to the butter for a bright, refreshing finish.
• Maple Twist: Substitute the honey with pure maple syrup for a richer, earthier sweetness.
• Herbal Infusion: Swap the parsley for chopped rosemary and thyme for a fragrant, aromatic variation.

Best pairings

This rich corn dish serves as the perfect accompaniment to hearty proteins, balancing heavy savory notes with its creamy sweetness. The sweetness of the honey butter complements the savory umami flavors of a grilled ribeye steak or a smoky brisket perfectly. It also pairs exceptionally well with pork chops or sticky BBQ ribs, echoing the sweetness found in many barbecue sauces. For a lighter summer meal, serve this alongside cedar plank salmon or grilled shrimp skewers; the corn provides a satisfying richness that contrasts well with seafood. Additionally, pair it with a crisp arugula salad with a vinaigrette dressing to cut through the richness of the Irish butter, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

Conclusion

Once you have tasted the difference that premium Irish butter and a kiss of open flame make to sweet corn, you will likely never go back to boiling it again. This Grilled Irish Honey Butter Corn recipe is a testament to how simple, high-quality ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary on your Arteflame grill. It is the perfect balance of sweet, salty, creamy, and smoky textures. So next time you light up the grill, make sure this recipe is on the menu. It is an easy, delicious win that brings people together and celebrates the best flavors of the season. Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious results!