Delicious Elote Mexican Street Corn Recipe You'll Love

Name: Delicious Elote: Easy Mexican Street Corn Recipe You’ll Love!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 ears of corn, husked; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 1 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta); 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 lime, cut into wedges; Salt, to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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If you’ve ever been lucky enough to stroll through a Mexican market or street fair, chances are you’ve encountered a tantalizing spectacle: Elote, or Mexican street corn. This flavorful dish is a beloved staple across Mexico, renowned for its vibrant taste and addictive crunch. Grilled corn slathered in a creamy, zesty coating, then sprinkled with cheese and spices—what’s not to love? In this article, we’ll walk through the recipe so you can bring this delightful experience right into your kitchen. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn

There are a few reasons why this Elote recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home:

Flavor Explosion: With the combination of creamy, tangy, and cheesy elements, every bite is a celebration of flavors.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry, making it easy to whip up anytime.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a picnic, or a cozy family dinner, Elote fits right in.
Customizable: Want to amp up the spice? Or maybe add some herbs? This recipe is flexible enough for all tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients before you start to make the cooking process smooth and effortless. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 ears of corn, husked – Fresh corn on the cob, ready for grilling.
1/2 cup mayonnaise – Creamy base that helps toppings adhere to the corn.
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt – Adds tanginess and balances the richness.
1 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta) – Salty, crumbly cheese for authentic flavor.
1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste) – Provides a mild heat and smoky depth.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory profile with a hint of garlic.
1 lime, cut into wedges – For a fresh, zesty finish when squeezed over the top.
Salt, to taste – Elevates and balances all the flavors.
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional) – Adds a burst of color and herbal freshness.

For a refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, explore our Zesty Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw. This vibrant side dish combines the creamy tang of classic coleslaw with the bold flavors of elote, featuring grilled corn, cotija cheese, and a hint of lime. It’s the perfect accompaniment to your summer barbecue favorites.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Corn

Start by boiling or grilling your corn. If grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high. For boiling, fill a large pot with water, bring it to a boil, and then add the corn. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender. If grilling, turn the corn every few minutes to achieve those beautiful grill marks, usually about 10-15 minutes of cooking.

2. Make the Creamy Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. This creamy goodness is what makes your Elote irresistible!

3. Coat the Corn

Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the heat. While it’s still warm, generously coat each ear of corn with the creamy mixture. Use a brush or your hands (a bit messy, but totally worth it!) to slather it on.

4. Add Cheese and Toppings

After coating the corn, sprinkle it liberally with Cotija cheese. The cheese gives a nice salty flavor and a delightful texture that complements the creamy topping perfectly. If you like, add more chili powder for an extra kick!

5. Serve with Lime

Serve your Elote with lime wedges on the side, so everyone can squeeze fresh lime juice over their corn for that zesty burst of flavor. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired for a pop of freshness.

What to Serve with Elote

Elote, or Mexican street corn, is incredibly flavorful on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes to round out your meal. Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout, taco night, or a festive gathering, there are plenty of delicious options to complement its bold, creamy flavor. From juicy grilled meats to fresh and zesty sides, elote can easily be part of a hearty and satisfying spread.

One of the most popular pairings for elote is tacos—especially carne asada, grilled shrimp, or al pastor. The smoky char and spices from the meat perfectly balance the creamy, cheesy topping on the corn. For lighter fare, consider serving elote with a citrusy avocado salad, Mexican rice, or black bean soup. Looking for something indulgent? Try it alongside cheesy quesadillas, nachos, or grilled chicken fajitas. No matter the occasion, elote is a crowd-pleasing side that adds a burst of flavor to any Mexican-inspired meal.

Serving and Storage Tips for your Mexican Street Corn

Elote is best enjoyed fresh off the grill or after being boiled, as it can lose its magic once it cools down. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a short time or warm them back on the grill.

When serving, you can garnish your Elote with additional lime wedges, extra cheese, or even some hot sauce for those who like it spicy. This dish pairs wonderfully with a cold drink on a warm day!

Elevate your side dish game with our Mexican Street Corn Salad. Inspired by the beloved street food, this salad blends charred corn kernels with a creamy, spicy dressing, fresh cilantro, and crumbled cotija cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.

Helpful Tips

Choosing the Right Corn: Fresh, in-season corn will give you the sweetest flavor. Look for plump kernels and bright green husks.
Vegan Option: For a dairy-free version, replace the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
Add Personal Flair: Don’t be afraid to play around with toppings! Some people love adding cooked bacon bits, hot sauce, or even avocado slices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is on Mexican street corn?

Mexican street corn, or elote, is typically grilled corn on the cob slathered with a creamy mixture of mayonnaise and Mexican crema. It’s then sprinkled with crumbled Cotija cheese, chili powder, fresh cilantro, and finished with a squeeze of lime juice. This combination creates a savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor profile.

What are the ingredients in Mexican street corn seasoning?

Elote seasoning blends vary, but a common homemade mix includes chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and a touch of sugar. Some versions also incorporate dried lime zest or citric acid for a tangy kick.

What is the red powder they put on street corn?

The red powder commonly sprinkled on elote is chili powder, such as chipotle or ancho chili powder. Additionally, Tajín—a popular Mexican seasoning made from chili peppers, lime, and salt—is frequently used to add a tangy and spicy flavor.

What is a substitute for Cotija cheese in Mexican street corn?

If Cotija cheese isn’t available, suitable substitutes include feta cheese, which offers a similar salty and crumbly texture, and queso fresco, a milder Mexican cheese. Parmesan or Romano cheeses can also be used, providing a hard, salty alternative.

Can I use frozen corn for Mexican street corn recipe?

Yes, Elote is naturally gluten-free as it primarily contains corn and basic pantry ingredients that do not include gluten. Just be mindful of any spices you use that may contain gluten.

Looking for a crispy, savory treat? Try our Elote Crispy Mexican Street Corn Fritters. These golden bites capture the essence of traditional elote, delivering a satisfying crunch with every mouthful.

Conclusion

Elote is not just food; it’s an experience that takes your taste buds on a journey to the bustling streets of Mexico. With its simple yet rich flavor profile and multitude of options for customization, it’s a dish that everyone can enjoy. Try making Elote at home, and you might just find yourself creating lasting memories with friends and family over this delicious treat. So gather your ingredients, embrace the messiness, and let the vibrant flavors shine. You won’t regret it!