Mexican Street Corn, or Elote, is a beloved and flavorful street food that’s perfect for summer barbecues, parties, or as a delicious side dish. This recipe features grilled corn on the cob slathered in a creamy, tangy sauce, and sprinkled with cheese, cilantro, and a hint of chili powder. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, Elote is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
To make this mouthwatering Mexican Street Corn, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Corn
- 4 ears of corn, husked
Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Garnish
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Additional cotija cheese, for sprinkling
- Lime wedges
Ingredient Notes
- Corn: Fresh, sweet corn on the cob is ideal for this recipe. Grilling the corn brings out its natural sweetness and adds a delicious smoky flavor.
- Cotija Cheese: This crumbly Mexican cheese adds a salty, tangy flavor. If you can’t find cotija, feta or Parmesan can be used as a substitute.
- Mexican Crema: This is a tangy, creamy topping similar to sour cream but slightly thinner. You can use sour cream if Mexican crema is unavailable.
- Chili Powder: Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your spice preference. You can also use Tajín, a Mexican seasoning blend that includes chili powder, lime, and salt.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Grill the Corn
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the husked corn directly on the grill grates. Grill, turning occasionally, until the corn is cooked and charred in spots, about 10-15 minutes.
- Remove the corn from the grill and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream or Mexican crema, cotija cheese, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and lime juice.
- Mix until well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Elote
- Using a brush or spoon, generously coat each ear of grilled corn with the sauce mixture.
- Sprinkle additional cotija cheese and chopped cilantro over the top.
- Serve the Elote with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
Tips and Tricks
- Perfectly Charred Corn: To get beautifully charred corn, make sure your grill is hot before adding the corn. Turn the corn occasionally to ensure even charring.
- Making Ahead: You can prepare the sauce up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Grill the corn just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Variations
- Off the Cob: For a less messy version, cut the grilled corn kernels off the cob and mix them with the sauce and garnishes in a bowl.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese such as feta, Parmesan, or even cheddar for a unique twist.
- Herb Additions: Add finely chopped herbs like parsley or chives to the sauce for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
Serving Elote at Gatherings
Mexican Street Corn is an excellent addition to any gathering. Its vibrant flavors and easy preparation make it a favorite at barbecues and parties. You can serve the corn on the cob for a traditional experience, or cut the kernels off and mix them in a bowl for a less messy option. Guests will appreciate the burst of flavors from the creamy sauce, tangy cheese, and fresh cilantro, making it a memorable part of your menu.
Kid-Friendly Version
If you’re making Elote for kids, you can adjust the recipe to suit their tastes. Reduce the amount of chili powder to make it less spicy, and consider adding a bit of honey to the sauce for a touch of sweetness. This will make the dish more appealing to younger palates while still keeping the delicious combination of flavors. Kids will enjoy helping to prepare and eat this fun, hands-on dish.
Serving Suggestions
Mexican Street Corn is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of mains. Serve it alongside grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a vibrant summer salad spread. It’s also a fantastic addition to any potluck or barbecue menu.
History of Elote
Elote, meaning “corn on the cob” in Spanish, is a traditional Mexican street food that has been enjoyed for centuries. Corn has been a staple in Mexican cuisine since ancient times, dating back to the Aztecs and Mayans, who cultivated and revered it. Elote as we know it today became popular as street food in Mexico, where vendors would sell the grilled corn slathered in various toppings to passersby. This beloved street food is a testament to the ingenuity and rich culinary traditions of Mexico, combining simple ingredients to create a dish that is both satisfying and full of flavor. The combination of creamy, tangy, and spicy elements makes Elote a unique and irresistible treat.
Health Benefits of Corn
Corn is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that offer several health benefits. It is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Corn is also rich in vitamins such as vitamin C, thiamin, and folate, which are essential for overall health. The antioxidants found in corn, including lutein and zeaxanthin, promote eye health and can help protect against age-related macular degeneration. Additionally, corn contains phytonutrients that have anti-inflammatory properties and support cardiovascular health. Enjoying corn as part of a balanced diet can contribute to your overall well-being.
Cultural Significance of Elote
Elote is more than just a popular street food; it has special meaning in Mexico. Corn has been a very important crop in Mexico for thousands of years and is a big part of the country’s history and traditions. The ancient civilizations like the Aztecs and Mayans considered corn a gift from the gods. Making and eating Elote is a fun and social activity in Mexico. It’s often sold by street vendors at fairs, markets, and celebrations, bringing people together to enjoy it. This shows how Elote plays a role in social gatherings and community bonding.
Exploring Regional Variations
While the basic idea of Elote is the same, different regions in Mexico have their own unique versions of this popular dish. In some places, the corn is boiled instead of grilled and then topped with the same delicious ingredients. In coastal areas, people sometimes add seafood like shrimp or crab to the mix, giving a new twist to the traditional recipe. In Oaxaca, there is a version called “Esquites” where the corn kernels are cut off the cob and served in a cup with the same tasty toppings. These different versions show the variety and creativity in Mexican cuisine, offering a new experience with each type of Elote.
Pairing Elote with Beverages
Choosing the right drink to have with your Mexican Street Corn can make your meal even better. Traditional Mexican drinks like Agua Fresca, which is made from fruits, flowers, or seeds blended with water and sugar, go perfectly with the strong flavors of Elote. For adults, you might want to pair Elote with a cold beer or a tangy margarita. The bubbles in beer cut through the creamy sauce, while the citrus flavor in a margarita enhances the lime and chili tastes. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, a glass of cold horchata, which is a sweet and creamy rice milk drink flavored with cinnamon, can be a nice contrast to the savory and spicy Elote.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn? A: While fresh corn on the cob is ideal for this recipe, you can use frozen corn in a pinch. Thaw the corn and pat it dry before grilling. You may need to adjust the grilling time slightly.
Q: What can I use instead of cotija cheese? A: If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta or Parmesan are good substitutes. They offer a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor.
Q: Can I make this recipe without a grill? A: Yes, you can cook the corn on a stovetop grill pan or even roast it in the oven. For the oven method, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the corn on a baking sheet, and roast for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and slightly charred.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover Mexican Street Corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or enjoy cold.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time? A: Yes, the sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This can save you time when preparing the dish.
Q: Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe? A: To make a dairy-free version, use a vegan mayonnaise and substitute the cotija cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also omit the cheese entirely and add more lime juice and spices for extra flavor.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream? A: Yes, Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream or Mexican crema. It adds a nice tanginess and a bit more protein to the dish.
Q: What’s the best way to serve this dish at a party? A: For easy serving at a party, consider cutting the corn cobs in half before grilling. This makes them more manageable for guests to eat. Arrange the elotes on a platter with extra lime wedges and a sprinkle of additional cilantro for a festive presentation.
Q: Can I add other toppings? A: Absolutely! Other delicious toppings include sliced jalapeños, diced red onions, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika or Tajín for an extra kick.
Conclusion
This Irresistible Mexican Street Corn (Elote) recipe is a delicious and easy way to bring the flavors of Mexican street food to your home. The combination of smoky grilled corn, creamy sauce, tangy cheese, and fresh cilantro is simply unbeatable. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a tasty side dish, Elote is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try and experience the magic of Mexican Street Corn!