Mexican Street Corn Recipe

Introduction

Mexican Street Corn, widely known as Elote, is more than just a popular street food; it’s a dish that embodies the vibrant and rich culinary heritage of Mexico. This beloved treat is a perfect representation of the bold flavors and lively spirit of Mexican cuisine. Elote features succulent grilled corn on the cob, enveloped in a luscious, tangy cheese sauce that’s spiced to perfection. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of smoky, creamy, and zesty notes, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Whether you’re planning to host a summer barbecue, searching for a distinctive and flavorful side dish to elevate your meal, or simply yearning for an authentic taste of Mexico, this recipe is a must-try. Not only does it bring the warmth and excitement of Mexican street food right to your table, but it also offers a fun and interactive cooking experience that can be enjoyed by cooks of all levels. Dive into the world of Elote and discover why this dish has captured the hearts and taste buds of so many food lovers around the globe.

Why Make Mexican Street Corn?

Mexican Street Corn is more than just a side dish; it’s an experience. The combination of smoky grilled corn with a creamy, tangy sauce and a touch of spice creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that stands out from other corn recipes.

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at family gatherings, picnics, or even as a snack. It’s also easy to customize based on your preferences, whether you want to dial up the spice or experiment with different types of cheese. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce vibrant Mexican flavors into your cooking repertoire.

Mexican Street Corn Ingredients List

To make this delicious Mexican Street Corn, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges for serving

Mexican Street Corn Instructions

1. Preheat the grill:
Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan on your stovetop will work just as well.

2. Grill the corn:
Place the husked corn on the grill, turning occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly. Grill for about 8-10 minutes until the corn is lightly charred all over. The char marks add a delicious smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce.

3. Prepare the sauce:
While the corn is grilling, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, smoked paprika, and fresh lime juice in a small bowl. This sauce will be the star of your Mexican Street Corn, adding creaminess, tanginess, and a bit of heat.

4. Coat the corn:
Once the corn is perfectly grilled, remove it from the heat. Using a brush, generously coat each ear of corn with the sauce mixture, making sure it’s evenly spread.

5. Add the cheese:
Immediately after coating with the sauce, sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese over the corn. The cheese will stick to the sauce, creating a creamy, cheesy layer that is simply irresistible.

6. Garnish and serve:
Finish the dish by garnishing with chopped cilantro and serving with lime wedges. The lime juice adds a refreshing citrusy note that balances the richness of the cheese and sauce. Serve the corn while it’s still warm.

Tips and Substitutions

• Cheese Substitution: If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta or Parmesan cheese can be used as a substitute. Both offer a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor.
• Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder. For those who love extra heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
• Grilling Alternative: No grill? No problem! You can roast the corn in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until lightly browned.
• Vegan Option: For a vegan version of this dish, replace the mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives and use a vegan-friendly cheese.

Variations

• Street Corn Salad: If you prefer a salad, cut the grilled corn off the cob and mix it with the sauce, cheese, and cilantro. This version is great for potlucks or as a side dish for larger gatherings.
• Mexican Street Corn Dip: Turn this recipe into a dip by combining the ingredients in a bowl with some softened cream cheese. Serve with tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Spicy Elote: For an extra kick, add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
• Sweet Corn Twist: For a slightly sweeter version, add a teaspoon of honey to the sauce. This adds a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the smoky and tangy flavors.

Mexican Street Corn Nutritional Information

Mexican Street Corn is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:

• Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per serving
• Protein: 5g per serving
• Fat: 15g per serving (with healthy fats from mayonnaise and sour cream)
• Carbohydrates: 20g per serving
• Fiber: 2g per serving
• Calcium: The cotija cheese provides a good amount of calcium, important for bone health.
• Vitamins: Corn is rich in B vitamins, which are essential for energy production.

This dish is a great source of fiber and vitamins, making it a flavorful addition to a balanced diet.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storage:
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the corn in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warm, or reheat on the grill for a few minutes.

Serving Suggestions:
Mexican Street Corn pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled meats like steak, chicken, or shrimp. It’s also a great side for tacos, enchiladas, or a hearty bean salad. For a refreshing contrast, serve with a simple green salad or a fruit salsa.

Presentation Tip:
For an authentic touch, serve the corn on a traditional Mexican plate and sprinkle a bit more chili powder on top for a burst of color and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Mexican Street Corn ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and grill the corn ahead of time. However, it’s best to apply the sauce and cheese right before serving to ensure the flavors are fresh and vibrant.

2. What can I use instead of cotija cheese?
Feta cheese is the best alternative, offering a similar crumbly texture and tangy flavor. Parmesan cheese can also work in a pinch.

3. Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can lighten the dish by using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and sour cream. This swap reduces the fat content while adding a bit of extra protein.

4. How can I make the corn spicier?
To increase the spice level, add more chili powder, or include a pinch of cayenne pepper in the sauce. You can also top the finished corn with hot sauce or chopped jalapeños.

5. Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
Fresh corn on the cob is best, but if it’s not available, you can use frozen corn. Thaw the corn and grill it until heated through, then follow the same steps for coating and seasoning.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this Mexican Street Corn recipe, you might also like:

• Grilled Mexican Chicken Tacos: Perfectly seasoned chicken served with fresh salsa and creamy avocado.
• Loaded Nachos with Cheese and Jalapeños: A crowd-pleaser with layers of cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings.
• Spicy Black Bean Soup: A hearty, flavorful soup with a kick of spice, perfect for cooler evenings.
• Avocado Lime Crema: A zesty sauce that pairs wonderfully with tacos, salads, and grilled meats.

Conclusion