Mexican Street Corn Recipe

If you’ve ever strolled through the bustling streets of Mexico, chances are you’ve encountered the irresistible aroma of elote, or Mexican street corn. This iconic dish combines the sweetness of corn with the tanginess of lime, the richness of mayonnaise, and the bold flavors of chili powder and cotija cheese. Recreating this flavorful snack at home is easier than you might think!

Ingredients:

Corn on the cob: Fresh and preferably still in the husk.
Mayonnaise: Traditional or vegan mayo works well.
Cotija cheese: Crumbled, for that authentic Mexican flavor.
Lime: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds brightness.
Chili powder or Tajín: For a spicy kick and seasoning.
Fresh cilantro: Chopped finely for garnish (optional).
Salt and pepper: To taste.

Instructions:

Prepare the Corn: Peel back the husks of the corn but leave them attached at the base. Remove the silk (the thin threads) and then pull the husks back up to cover the corn.
Grill the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the prepared corn directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn kernels are tender and charred in spots.
Coat with Mayonnaise: Once the corn is cooked, carefully remove the husks. Brush each ear of corn with mayonnaise until evenly coated. This will help the other ingredients stick.
Add Flavor: Sprinkle each ear of corn generously with crumbled cotija cheese, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and a sprinkle of chili powder or Tajín. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish and Serve: For a final touch, garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the flavors reminiscent of a Mexican street fair.

Tips for Serving:

Variations: Experiment with different toppings such as chopped cilantro, chopped scallions, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for added heat.
Indoor Cooking: If you don’t have access to a grill, you can achieve a similar effect by roasting the corn in the oven or on a stovetop grill pan.
Make It Ahead: Prepare the corn ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or grill briefly before serving.

Conclusion:

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a taste of Mexico, this Mexican street corn recipe is sure to delight your taste buds. With its smoky flavor, creamy texture, and zesty finish, it’s a perfect blend of savory and refreshing—a true celebration of Mexican culinary tradition right in your own kitchen. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and again for its irresistible flavors and easy preparation. Viva elote!

Feel free to adjust the recipe to your taste preferences and enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn wherever you are!