Introduction to Mexican Street Corn
Ah, Mexican Street Corn! Just the thought of it brings back memories of summer nights spent at local fairs, the air filled with laughter and the irresistible aroma of grilled corn. This delightful dish, also known as Elote, is a quick solution for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With its creamy, zesty coating and a sprinkle of cheese, it’s a flavor explosion that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn
This Mexican Street Corn recipe is a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. The combination of creamy, tangy flavors with a hint of spice makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to elevate your summer barbecues or weeknight dinners without breaking a sweat. You’ll love how quickly it disappears!
Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn
To create this mouthwatering Mexican Street Corn, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Corn: Fresh ears of corn are the star of the show. Look for plump, sweet corn for the best results.
- Mayonnaise: This creamy base adds richness. You can use regular or light mayonnaise, depending on your preference.
- Sour Cream: It brings a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the corn. Greek yogurt can be a great substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option.
- Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese adds a salty kick. If you can’t find Cotija, feta cheese works well too!
- Chili Powder: A sprinkle of this spice gives the corn a delightful heat. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
- Lime: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish and adds a zesty finish. Don’t skip this step!
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors. You can always add more to taste.
- Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro is perfect for garnishing. It adds a fresh, herbal note that complements the dish beautifully.
For those who want to kick it up a notch, consider adding hot sauce for extra heat or using vegan mayonnaise and sour cream for a plant-based version. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Mexican Street Corn
Making Mexican Street Corn is a delightful adventure that’s as easy as pie! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish that will impress everyone at your table. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
First things first, preheating your grill is crucial. It ensures that the corn cooks evenly and gets those beautiful char marks. Aim for medium-high heat, around 400°F. This way, the corn will sizzle and caramelize, bringing out its natural sweetness. Trust me, you want that smoky flavor!
Step 2: Grill the Corn
Now, it’s time to grill the corn! Place the ears directly on the grill grates. Turn them every few minutes to get that perfect char. You’re looking for a nice golden-brown color, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them tender but not mushy. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
While the corn is grilling, let’s whip up the creamy sauce. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix it well until it’s smooth and creamy. This mixture is the heart of your Mexican Street Corn, adding richness and a zesty kick. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed!
Step 4: Brush the Mixture on the Corn
Once the corn is perfectly grilled, it’s time to brush on that creamy goodness. Use a basting brush or the back of a spoon to spread the mixture evenly over each ear of corn. Make sure to coat every inch for maximum flavor. The heat from the corn will help the sauce stick beautifully!
Step 5: Add Cheese and Garnish
Now comes the fun part—adding the cheese! Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese generously over the sauced corn. This salty, crumbly cheese is what makes this dish truly special. Finish it off with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a dash of chili powder for an extra pop of color and flavor. It’s like a fiesta on a stick!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, it’s time to dig in! Serve the Mexican Street Corn immediately while it’s still warm. The combination of flavors and textures will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy this dish fresh off the grill, and watch as it disappears in no time!
Tips for Success
- Choose the freshest corn you can find for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip preheating the grill; it’s key for that perfect char.
- Feel free to adjust the chili powder to suit your spice level.
- For a smoky flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika to the creamy mixture.
- Serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick!
Equipment Needed
- Grill: A gas or charcoal grill works perfectly. If you don’t have one, a grill pan on the stovetop will do.
- Basting Brush: Use this to apply the creamy mixture. A spoon can work in a pinch!
- Mixing Bowl: Any medium-sized bowl will suffice for mixing the sauce.
- Tongs: Handy for turning the corn while grilling.
Variations of Mexican Street Corn
- Spicy Elote: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the creamy mixture for an extra kick.
- Cheesy Garlic Corn: Mix minced garlic into the creamy sauce and top with a blend of Cotija and Parmesan cheese for a rich flavor.
- Vegan Elote: Substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives, and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Herbed Corn: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the creamy mixture for a refreshing twist.
- BBQ Elote: Brush the corn with your favorite BBQ sauce before adding the creamy mixture for a smoky, sweet flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Mexican Street Corn
- Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside a fresh salad for a light, refreshing contrast.
- Complement with a chilled margarita or a fruity agua fresca.
- For presentation, arrange the corn on a colorful platter with lime wedges.
- Sprinkle extra cilantro on top for a vibrant finish!
FAQs about Mexican Street Corn
What is Mexican Street Corn?
Mexican Street Corn, or Elote, is a popular street food made with grilled corn on the cob, slathered in a creamy sauce, and topped with cheese and spices. It’s a delicious treat that brings the flavors of Mexico right to your backyard!
Can I make Mexican Street Corn ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh off the grill, you can prepare the creamy mixture ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill the corn. This way, you’ll save time during busy weeknights!
What can I substitute for Cotija cheese?
If you can’t find Cotija cheese, feta cheese is a great alternative. It has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor that works well in this recipe. You can also try Parmesan for a different twist!
Is Mexican Street Corn gluten-free?
Yes! Mexican Street Corn is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to check the labels on your mayonnaise and sour cream to ensure they’re gluten-free.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version of Mexican Street Corn, simply swap out the mayonnaise and sour cream for vegan alternatives. Nutritional yeast can be used in place of cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
Final Thoughts
Making Mexican Street Corn is more than just cooking; it’s about creating joyful moments with family and friends. The vibrant flavors and textures come together to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also brings a taste of summer to your table. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s quick and easy, making it perfect for busy days. So fire up that grill, gather your loved ones, and savor the delightful experience of sharing this mouthwatering Elote together!
Print
Mexican Street Corn: Discover the Secret Recipe Today!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mexican Street Corn, also known as Elote, is a popular street food in Mexico made with grilled corn on the cob, coated in a creamy sauce, and topped with cheese and spices.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred.
- In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and salt.
- Once the corn is grilled, remove it from the grill and brush the creamy mixture all over the corn.
- Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese over the corn.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and additional chili powder if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier version, add more chili powder or hot sauce.
- Can substitute Cotija cheese with feta cheese if unavailable.
- For a vegan option, use vegan mayonnaise and sour cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
