Mexican Corn Recipe

Mexican cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and delightful combinations of spices and ingredients. One such beloved dish is Elote, or Mexican street corn. This treat is a staple in Mexican street food culture and is often enjoyed as a savory snack or side dish. With its combination of grilled corn, creamy toppings, and a burst of lime, it’s a flavor explosion that is both simple and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

To make the perfect Elote, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
• 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta cheese as a substitute)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 limes, cut into wedges
• Salt, to taste
• Wooden skewers or corn holders (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you don’t have a grill, you can also use a grill pan on your stovetop or an oven broiler.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until it’s charred and cooked through. This should take about 10-15 minutes. You want the corn to have a nice, even char for that authentic street corn flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Toppings

While the corn is grilling, mix together the mayonnaise, Mexican crema (or sour cream), minced garlic, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. This creamy mixture will serve as the base layer for the toppings.

Step 4: Assemble the Elote

Once the corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. Insert wooden skewers or corn holders into the ends of the corn if desired, making it easier to handle and eat.

Using a brush or spoon, generously coat each ear of corn with the creamy mixture, making sure to cover it evenly. Next, sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese over the corn, pressing it gently to adhere to the creamy layer.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

Sprinkle the chili powder and smoked paprika over the corn. Adjust the amount of chili powder to your preferred level of spiciness. Garnish with chopped cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Elote with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn just before eating to enhance the flavors. The combination of creamy, tangy, spicy, and smoky elements will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Tips and Variations

• Cheese Substitutes: If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta cheese or Parmesan can be used as a substitute.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and smoked paprika based on your spice tolerance. You can also add a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Herbs: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try using parsley or chives instead.
• Vegan Option: For a vegan version, use vegan mayonnaise and a dairy-free sour cream substitute. Nutritional yeast can be used instead of cotija cheese for a cheesy flavor.

Conclusion

Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings the authentic flavors of Mexican street food to your home. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a casual get-together, or simply craving a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Give it a try, and experience the deliciousness of Mexican street corn!

---

Enjoy this mouthwatering recipe, and don’t forget to share your Elote creations with us. Happy cooking!