Mexican Street Corn

Name: Mexican Street Corn
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 ears of corn (husked); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 lime (juiced); Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro (chopped (for garnish))

Experience the irresistible flavors of Mexican street corn, also known as Elote. This street food favorite features grilled corn on the cob slathered in creamy sauce, topped with cheese, spices, and lime. It’s a perfect summer treat that captures the essence of Mexican cuisine, making it a must-try for any food lover looking to elevate their barbecue or picnic spread.

Ingredients

4 ears of corn, husked
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup crumbled cotija cheese
1 tsp chili powder
1 lime, juiced
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Wooden skewers
Butter (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 corn cob) contains approximately 250 calories, 12g fat, 30g carbohydrates, 6g protein, and 2g fiber.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Husk the corn and remove all silk.
Soak wooden skewers in water for 15 minutes to prevent burning.
Insert skewers into the base of each corn cob.
Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred.
In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and salt.
Once grilled, remove corn from heat and let cool slightly.
Generously coat the corn with the creamy mixture.
Sprinkle with cotija cheese and chili powder.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Alternative Ingredients

If cotija cheese is unavailable, feta cheese can be a great substitute. Additionally, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter option.

Serving and Pairings

Mexican street corn pairs excellently with grilled meats, tacos, or can be enjoyed on its own as a flavorful snack. Serve with cold beverages for a refreshing experience.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes. Avoid freezing, as it alters the texture of the corn.

Cooking Mistakes

Don’t overcook the corn; it should be tender but not mushy.
Ensure the grill is hot enough to achieve a good char.
Adjust seasoning gradually; taste as you go.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the lime juice; it adds essential brightness.

Helpful Tips

For extra flavor, brush corn with melted butter before grilling.
Try adding garlic powder to the creamy mixture for depth.
Use fresh herbs like cilantro for a pop of color and taste.
Experiment with spices; smoked paprika works well too.

FAQs

What is Mexican street corn?

Mexican street corn, or Elote, is grilled corn on the cob topped with a creamy mixture, cheese, and spices, popular as a street food in Mexico.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, the recipe is vegetarian-friendly; just ensure the cheese used is suitable for vegetarians.

How do I grill corn without a husk?

You can grill corn directly on the grill; just soak the corn in water for a bit to keep it moist.

Is this dish spicy?

The spiciness can be adjusted by controlling the amount of chili powder used in the recipe.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the creamy topping ahead of time and grill the corn just before serving.

Conclusion

Mexican street corn is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Mexico to your table. Its unique combination of textures and flavors makes it a hit for any occasion, whether at a summer barbecue or as a side for your favorite Mexican dishes. Enjoy this delightful treat and share it with friends and family!