Mexican Street Corn, or Elote, is a popular traditional dish that embodies the vibrant flavors and spirit of Mexican street food. Often found at food stalls and markets throughout Mexico, this dish features grilled corn on the cob that is generously slathered in a creamy, savory topping and sprinkled with cheese, making it an irresistible treat for corn lovers everywhere.
Why We Love This Mexican Street Corn Recipe
You’ll love this Mexican Street Corn recipe for its exceptional taste and simplicity. The combination of sweet grilled corn, creamy toppings, and a hint of lime creates a delightful balance of flavors. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also makes an excellent appetizer or side dish for any gathering. From backyard barbecues to picnics in the park, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. The best part? Every bite encapsulates the essence of the streets of Mexico, bringing a vibrant, festive atmosphere to your table.
Ingredients about Mexican Street Corn
To create the perfect Mexican Street Corn, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 cobs sweet corn (peeled)
- 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
- ¼ cup cotija cheese (grated)
- Chopped cilantro (optional for garnishing)
- ¾ teaspoon tajin spice
- 3 tablespoons mayo
- 3 tablespoons Mexican-style cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- ½ whole lime (juiced, about 1 tablespoon)
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Directions
Creating Mexican Street Corn is straightforward and requires just a few steps.
- Begin by preheating your grill to a medium heat. This ensures an even cooking process, providing that delightful char on the corn.
- While your grill heats, mix the creamy topping. In a medium bowl, combine mayo, Mexican-style cream, tajin spice, lime juice, salt, and paprika. Stir until all ingredients are well blended and smooth. Once mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate it to let the flavors meld.
- Take the peeled sweet corn and lightly brush each ear with melted butter. This not only adds flavor but also helps create a beautiful golden color on the grilled corn.
- Wrap each corn cob individually in aluminum foil. This will protect the corn and keep it moist while grilling.
- Place the wrapped corn on the grill and cook for about 15 to 18 minutes. Be sure to turn each cob every 3 to 5 minutes to achieve even cooking.
- After grilling, remove the corn from the grill and carefully unwrap the foil. Let it cool for a few minutes so you can handle it safely.
- Now it’s time to dress your corn! Brush on the chilled creamy sauce from the refrigerator. Once coated, generously sprinkle grated cotija cheese over the top. For an extra kick, add more tajin spice and some chopped cilantro.
- Serve the Mexican Street Corn immediately, accompanied by lime wedges for squeezing over the top. This will add a zesty freshness, enhancing the already vibrant flavors present in every bite.
How to Serve Mexican Street Corn
When serving Mexican Street Corn, presentation can make all the difference. You can place the grilled cobs on a large platter, allowing guests to help themselves. Garnishing the platter with extra lime wedges and chopped cilantro makes for an appealing display.
For a casual gathering, you might consider serving the corn on individual skewers for easy handling, making it a fun, finger-food style dish. The bright colors of the cheese and cilantro against the deep golden corn will surely tantalize your guests.
Pair your Mexican Street Corn with refreshing beverages like iced horchata or agua fresca to create a complete culinary experience. It’s a versatile dish that works beautifully alongside grilled meats, tacos, or even burgers, providing a delightful contrast of flavors.
Expert Tips: Mexican Street Corn
To maximize the enjoyment of your Mexican Street Corn, consider the following expert tips:
- Choose Fresh Corn: The fresher the corn, the sweeter your Elote will taste. Look for bright green husks and plump kernels when selecting your corn at the market.
- Don’t Skip Chilling the Sauce: Allowing the creamy topping to chill in the refrigerator helps it to thicken and enhances its flavor profile. The contrast between the hot corn and cool sauce is truly delightful.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cotija cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like feta or queso fresco for a different taste experience.
- Perfecting the Grill Marks: For perfect grill marks, be sure your grill is preheated. The high heat will create those beautiful chars on the corn, adding both flavor and visual appeal.
- Add Spices Wisely: If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the creamy mixture for an added kick.
How to Store Mexican Street Corn
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare but possible!), storing your Mexican Street Corn is easy. Allow the corn to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat in the oven or on the grill to bring back that delicious grilled flavor. You might want to freshen up the toppings too—adding a little more grated cheese, cilantro, or lime juice can make a world of difference.
Variation of Mexican Street Corn
There are plenty of exciting variations to try when making Mexican Street Corn. Here are a few ideas:
- Spicy Elote: Add finely chopped jalapeños to the creamy sauce for added heat, or mix in some sriracha for a delicious twist.
- Vegan Version: Substitute the mayo with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) and the Mexican-style cream with a plant-based yogurt or coconut cream for a vegan-friendly elote that still packs a flavor punch.
- Cheddar Elote: Mix in some shredded cheddar cheese with the cotija for a creamy, cheesy variation that adds a different texture and taste.
- Sweet & Savory Elote: Drizzle a sweet chili sauce over the top of the corn before serving to combine flavors flawlessly and create a sweet contrast to savory ingredients.
- Grilled Vegetable Elote: Add additional grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to your Elote spread for a heartier dish that includes more nutrition.
FAQ
What is Mexican Street Corn?
Mexican Street Corn, also known as Elote, is a popular street food consisting of grilled corn on the cob, coated with a mixture of mayonnaise, Mexican-style cream, tajin spice, lime juice, and topped with cheese, often cotija. It’s a flavorful treat enjoyed at festivals and street stalls across Mexico.
How do you make the creamy topping for Elote?
To make the creamy topping for Elote, mix 3 tablespoons of mayo, 3 tablespoons of Mexican-style cream, ¾ teaspoon of tajin spice, the juice of ½ lime, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of paprika in a bowl until smooth.
Can I grill the corn without foil?
Yes, you can grill the corn without foil for a more charred flavor, but wrapping it in foil helps retain moisture and cook the corn more evenly.
Is Elote served warm or cold?
Elote is best served warm, right off the grill, allowing the toppings to meld with the warmth of the freshly grilled corn.
What can I serve with Mexican Street Corn?
Mexican Street Corn pairs well with a wide variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a bigger spread with nachos and fresh salads for a festive meal.