Name: Mexican Street Corn Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 ears of fresh corn; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled; 1/4 teaspoon chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 lime, cut into wedges; Salt and pepper to taste

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Introduction

Welcome to our Mexican Street Corn Recipe! If you’ve ever wandered the vibrant streets of Mexico, you’ve likely come across the mouthwatering aroma of grilled corn smothered in a creamy and flavorful sauce. This popular street food, known as elote, is a true delight for the senses. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to recreate this irresistible dish in your own kitchen. Get ready to experience the explosion of flavors that Mexican street corn has to offer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Mexican Street Corn Recipe is a must-try. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires only a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, you’ll be able to whip up this delicious dish in no time. Additionally, the combination of smoky grilled corn, tangy lime, rich mayonnaise, and crumbled cheese creates a flavor profile that is simply irresistible. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or as a side dish any time of the year.

Ingredients

To make Mexican Street Corn, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 ears of fresh corn
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, cut into wedges
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding or substituting ingredients according to your taste preferences. For example, you can use grated Parmesan cheese instead of cotija cheese, or add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick of heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your own delicious Mexican Street Corn:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Remove the husks and silk from the corn, leaving the stem attached for easy handling.
Place the corn on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, and paprika.
Once the corn is cooked, brush the mayonnaise mixture onto each ear of corn, making sure to coat all sides.
Sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese over the corn.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tip: Soak the corn in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent it from drying out. This will help maintain the juiciness and enhance the smoky flavor.

Expert Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Mexican Street Corn turns out perfectly:

Use fresh corn for the best flavor and texture. Look for ears with bright green husks and plump kernels.
Grill the corn over medium-high heat to achieve a nice char without burning the kernels.
Feel free to adjust the amount of mayonnaise and spices according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of mayo or use Greek yogurt as a substitute.
For added smokiness, you can wrap the corn in aluminum foil before grilling. This will infuse the kernels with a delicious smoky flavor.
If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the corn on a stovetop grill pan or even in the oven under the broiler.

Variations and Substitutions

While traditional Mexican Street Corn is undeniably delicious, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this classic recipe. Here are a few variations and substitutions to consider:

Add a kick of heat by sprinkling cayenne pepper or hot sauce over the corn.
For a smokier flavor, sprinkle some smoked paprika or chipotle powder on top.
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can use Mexican crema or Greek yogurt as a substitute.
Experiment with different cheeses such as feta, queso fresco, or even shredded cheddar.
For a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with a vegan alternative and use dairy-free cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican Street Corn is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your culinary experience:

As a Side Dish: Serve Mexican Street Corn alongside grilled meats such as steak, chicken, or shrimp. It also pairs well with Mexican-inspired dishes like tacos, enchiladas, or fajitas.

Street Food Style: If you want the full street food experience, serve the corn on the cob and provide wooden skewers for easier handling. Sprinkle some extra cotija cheese and chili powder on top for an authentic touch.

Salad: Cut the kernels off the cob and toss them with fresh salad greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a tangy lime vinaigrette. This refreshing salad is perfect for summer picnics or potlucks.

Appetizer: Cut the corn into smaller pieces and serve them on mini skewers or toothpicks for a flavorful and visually appealing appetizer.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?

A: While fresh corn is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen corn kernels as a substitute if fresh corn is not available. Thaw the corn before grilling or sautéing.

Q: How long can I store leftover Mexican Street Corn?

A: Leftover Mexican Street Corn can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.

Q: Can I make Mexican Street Corn ahead of time?

A: Mexican Street Corn is best enjoyed immediately after grilling, as the flavors and textures are at their peak. However, you can prepare the mayonnaise mixture and crumble the cheese in advance to save time.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have the recipe for Mexican Street Corn, it’s time to bring the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your own kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a taste of authentic street food, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of smoky grilled corn, creamy sauce, and zesty lime creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will transport you to the lively streets of Mexico. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to indulge in a truly irresistible dish. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and experiences with us!