Mexican Street Corn, or Elote, is a beloved street food that embodies the vibrant and bold flavors of Mexican cuisine. This popular dish features grilled corn on the cob slathered in a creamy, tangy sauce and garnished with a sprinkle of cheese and spices. It’s a simple yet indulgent treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps to recreate this street food classic at home with ease and precision.
Ingredients
To make the perfect Mexican Street Corn, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, husked and silk removed
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream (or Mexican crema for a richer taste)
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (Parmesan or feta can be used as a substitute)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Corn:
- Start by husking the corn. Carefully peel away the outer layers of the corn and remove all the silk threads. Rinse the corn under cold water to get rid of any remaining silk.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a stovetop grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat as well.
- Grill the Corn:
- Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until it is evenly charred and cooked through. This should take about 10-12 minutes. Look for a nice caramelization on the kernels, which adds a delicious smoky flavor.
- If using a stovetop grill pan, place the corn in the pan and cook, turning occasionally, until it develops a good char and is tender.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- While the corn is grilling, make the creamy sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise with 1/4 cup sour cream (or Mexican crema). Mix until smooth.
- Add the crumbled cotija cheese to the bowl along with 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (if using). Stir well to incorporate the flavors. Season with salt to taste.
- Coat the Corn:
- Once the corn is grilled to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly for a minute or two.
- Generously brush or spread the creamy sauce mixture all over the corn. Make sure each ear is well-coated for the best flavor.
- Garnish and Serve:
- After coating the corn with the sauce, sprinkle additional crumbled cotija cheese on top if desired.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. You can also serve extra lime wedges on the side for added tanginess.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the Mexican Street Corn immediately while it’s still warm. It’s a fantastic side dish for a barbecue, a delicious snack, or a perfect addition to any summer meal.
Tips for Perfect Mexican Street Corn
- Choosing the Corn: Opt for fresh corn with bright yellow kernels and tender, moist texture. Older corn may be dry and less flavorful.
- Grilling Tips: Ensure your grill is preheated to the right temperature before adding the corn. This helps in achieving that perfect charred flavor. If you prefer, you can boil the corn for 5-7 minutes before grilling to ensure it’s tender throughout.
- Adjusting Spices: Feel free to adjust the level of chili powder and other spices to suit your taste. For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Substitutes: If cotija cheese is unavailable, Parmesan or feta can be used as a substitute. Both add a salty, tangy flavor that complements the corn beautifully.
- Adding Flavor: For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground cumin or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Making Mexican Street Corn at home is an easy way to enjoy this delicious street food favorite. With its combination of grilled corn, creamy sauce, tangy lime, and fresh cilantro, it offers a delightful burst of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a tasty treat, this recipe will elevate your culinary experience and impress your guests. Enjoy the vibrant and satisfying taste of Mexican Street Corn, and savor every flavorful bite
