Mexican Street Corn Recipe

Mexican street corn, also known as “elote,” is a popular and flavorful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. This unique recipe combines the smoky sweetness of grilled corn with a tangy, creamy sauce and a hint of spice. It’s a must-try for any food enthusiast seeking an explosion of flavors.

To prepare Mexican Street Corn, the corn cobs are typically grilled over an open flame or boiled until tender. Once cooked, the corn is traditionally coated with a layer of mayonnaise or Mexican crema, a tangy and slightly thickened sour cream. This creamy base helps the toppings adhere to the corn.

Mexican Street Corn is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy flavors. It is a favorite at outdoor markets, festivals, and street food stalls throughout Mexico, and its popularity has spread globally, becoming a beloved dish in many parts of the world.

How to Cook Mexican Street Corn

Equipment

• Grill or stovetop grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Brush or spoon for basting
• Skewers (if grilling whole corn cobs)
• Serving platter

Ingredients

For the corn

• 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
• Olive oil for brushing
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
• ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or substitute with feta cheese)
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat your grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Coat the corn with olive oil by using a brush and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the corn on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are lightly charred and tender.
4. While the corn is grilling, prepare the sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well until smooth and creamy.
5. Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. If desired, insert skewers into the ends of the corn cobs for easy handling.
6. Using a brush or spoon, generously apply the prepared sauce to each ear of corn, ensuring thorough coverage from all sides.
7. Sprinkle the corn with chopped cilantro and crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese).
8. Serve the Mexican street corn on a platter, garnished with lime wedges for squeezing over the corn. Enjoy it while it’s still warm!

What To Serve With Mexican Street Corn

• Grilled meats like steak, chicken, or shrimp
• Mexican-style rice
• Black bean salad or refried beans
• Tortilla chips and salsa
• Guacamole or avocado slices

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with flavors: The combination of grilled corn, tangy sauce, and savory toppings creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
• Easy to make: With minimal ingredients and simple cooking techniques, this recipe is beginner-friendly and can be whipped up in no time.
• Versatile: Mexican street corn can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or even a standalone vegetarian meal.
• Impressive presentation: The vibrant colors and enticing aroma of this dish make it a visually appealing addition to any gathering or meal.

What makes Mexican Street Corn so famous

1. Unique and Flavorful: Mexican street corn offers a unique and delicious combination of flavors. It is typically grilled or boiled and then slathered with a mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, or Mexican crema. Lime juice, chili powder, and crumbled cotija cheese are added to enhance the taste. The result is a savory, creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor profile that is loved by many.
2. Visual Appeal: Mexican street corn is visually striking, which adds to its fame. After being coated with the creamy sauce, it is often sprinkled with vibrant chili powder and garnished with cilantro or chopped green onions. The combination of colors and textures makes it an enticing and photogenic dish.
3. Street Food Culture: Mexican street corn is deeply rooted in Mexican street food culture. It is a popular snack sold by street vendors across Mexico. The experience of eating elote on the street often served on a stick for easy consumption, adds to its charm and popularity.
4. Cultural Significance: Elote holds cultural significance in Mexican cuisine. Corn has been a staple crop in Mexico for thousands of years, and elote showcases the versatility of this ingredient. It represents a fusion of traditional and modern flavors, making it a symbol of Mexican culinary heritage.
5. Accessibility: Mexican street corn is relatively easy to prepare and uses readily available ingredients. This accessibility has allowed it to gain popularity beyond Mexico, becoming a beloved dish in various parts of the world.

Conclusion

Mexican street corn is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that captures the essence of Mexican street food. The combination of grilled corn, creamy and tangy sauce, and savory toppings creates a burst of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a unique side dish, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

FAQs

Is it possible to substitute fresh corn with frozen corn?

While fresh corn is ideal, you can use thawed frozen corn if fresh corn is not available. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How can I store leftover Mexican street corn?

If you have leftover corn, remove any uneaten toppings, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, and refrigerate. It’s best to consume it within 2 days.

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