Mexican Street Corn

Name: Mexican Street Corn
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 ears of fresh corn; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 lime (cut into wedges); Fresh cilantro for garnish; Salt to taste

If you’re looking to elevate your summer cookouts, Mexican street corn, or “Elote,” is the perfect dish. This delicious grilled corn on the cob is slathered in creamy mayonnaise, tangy lime juice, and sprinkled with cotija cheese and chili powder. It’s not just a snack; it’s a burst of flavor that will transport you straight to the streets of Mexico. Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Ingredients

– 4 ears of fresh corn
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
– Salt to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Per serving (1 ear of corn): approximately 200 calories, 10g fat, 24g carbohydrates, 5g protein, 2g fiber. This is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your grill on medium-high heat.
2. Remove the husks and silk from the corn.
3. Rinse the corn under cold water and pat dry.
4. Place the corn directly on the grill.
5. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred.
6. Remove the corn from the grill and let it cool slightly.
7. Brush the grilled corn generously with mayonnaise.
8. Sprinkle cotija cheese over the mayonnaise-coated corn.
9. Dust with chili powder and add salt to taste.
10. Serve with lime wedges and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Additionally, feta cheese can be used instead of cotija for a different flavor profile. Adjust the chili powder to your spice preference.

Serving and Pairings

Mexican street corn pairs perfectly with grilled meats, tacos, or as a side dish for summer barbecues. It’s also great alongside fresh salads or as a topping for nachos.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, grill or microwave briefly until warm. While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the corn (without toppings) for up to a month.

Cooking Mistakes

– Avoid burning the corn by monitoring grill heat.
– Don’t skip rinsing the corn to remove excess silk.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Don’t overload on toppings; balance is key.
– Allow corn to cool slightly before adding toppings.

Helpful Tips

– For extra flavor, add garlic powder to the mayonnaise.
– Try adding hot sauce for a spicy kick.
– Use fresh limes for the best juice flavor.
– Experiment with different cheeses for variety.

FAQs

What is Mexican street corn?

Mexican street corn, or Elote, is grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. It’s a popular street food in Mexico known for its rich flavors.

Can I make Mexican street corn in the oven?

Yes, you can roast the corn in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly charred.

How can I make it vegetarian?

The traditional ingredients used in Mexican street corn are already vegetarian. Just ensure the cheese is rennet-free for strict vegetarians.

What can I use instead of cotija cheese?

Feta cheese or even Parmesan can be good substitutes for cotija if you’re unable to find it.

Is Mexican street corn gluten-free?

Yes, Mexican street corn is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients.

Conclusion

Mexican street corn is a delightful dish that brings the essence of summer to your table. With its creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors, it’s an easy recipe that everyone will enjoy. Whether served at a barbecue or as a side dish, this corn will surely impress your guests. Try it today and savor the taste of Mexico!