How to Make Authentic Mexican Street Corn (Elote) Recipe

How to Make Authentic Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Few dishes embody the vibrant flavors of Mexico like Mexican street corn, also known as Elote. This simple yet delicious dish is a favorite among street vendors throughout Mexico. Made with charred, smoky corn slathered in creamy, tangy toppings, and sprinkled with chili powder, it's a taste sensation that never disappoints. This authentic Mexican street corn recipe brings the best flavors of the streets of Mexico right to your kitchen.

What is Mexican Street Corn (Elote)?

Elote is the Mexican term for corn on the cob. While the grilled corn is tasty on its own, the true magic happens when it's smothered in a combination of mayonnaise, crema (Mexican sour cream), cotija cheese, and a dusting of chili powder. A squeeze of lime finishes this dish, adding a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the toppings.

Why You'll Love This Elote Recipe

This Elote recipe is simple to make yet full of bold, smoky flavors. Whether you're hosting a summer BBQ or just looking for a unique snack, Mexican street corn is always a hit. It's also highly customizable, meaning you can adjust the heat, seasoning, and toppings to suit your personal taste.

Ingredients for Authentic Mexican Street Corn

Before we dive into the steps, let’s gather the ingredients needed for this recipe. Authentic Mexican street corn uses just a few pantry staples and some fresh ingredients to pack a punch of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of fresh corn (husks removed)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream)
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (feta cheese works too)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder (or Tajín seasoning)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

How to Make Mexican Street Corn (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Now that we have everything we need, it’s time to make Mexican street corn. Follow these easy steps to prepare this delicious and authentic dish:

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Grilling the corn is essential to achieving that charred, smoky flavor. If you don’t have a grill, you can also roast the corn in the oven or use a grill pan.
2. Grill the Corn: Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Turn occasionally to ensure all sides are slightly charred, about 10-12 minutes in total. The key is to get a good char, which adds depth of flavor.
3. Mix the Topping: While the corn is grilling, mix the mayonnaise and crema in a small bowl until smooth. This will be the base of the delicious coating.
4. Coat the Corn: Once the corn is grilled, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Using a brush or spoon, spread the mayonnaise-crema mixture evenly over each ear of corn.
5. Add the Cheese: Roll or sprinkle the cotija cheese over the coated corn, ensuring it sticks to the creamy mixture. Be generous with the cheese!
6. Season with Chili Powder: Sprinkle the chili powder or Tajín seasoning over the corn for a smoky, spicy kick. If you prefer a spicier flavor, feel free to add more.
7. Finish with Lime: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn, giving it that signature tang. You can also garnish with chopped cilantro for added freshness.
8. Serve Hot: Mexican street corn is best enjoyed while it’s still hot and fresh off the grill.

Health Benefits of Mexican Street Corn

Not only is Mexican street corn delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Corn is rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious choice. By grilling the corn, you enhance its natural sweetness while keeping the recipe relatively healthy. Cotija cheese is also a good source of calcium, while the lime juice provides a boost of Vitamin C.

Tips for Making the Best Mexican Street Corn

For the best-tasting Elote, follow these pro tips:

• Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn is crucial to achieving the right flavor and texture. If possible, buy corn that’s in season for the sweetest and most tender kernels.
• Get a Good Char: Don’t be afraid to let the corn char slightly. The smoky flavor complements the creamy, tangy toppings perfectly.
• Use Cotija Cheese: Cotija cheese is traditional for this recipe, but you can substitute it with feta or parmesan if needed. Just be sure to use a crumbly cheese that adds a salty contrast.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder or Tajín seasoning depending on your spice tolerance. If you prefer more heat, you can also add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican street corn is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some great ways to serve it:

• As a Side Dish: Elote makes a fantastic side for grilled meats, tacos, or a fresh salad. It’s especially popular at summer BBQs and outdoor gatherings.
• As a Snack: Enjoy Mexican street corn on its own as a flavorful snack. It’s filling and fun to eat.
• Cut Off the Cob: You can also make a version of Elote called Esquites, where the corn kernels are cut off the cob and served in a cup with the same toppings.

Variations of Mexican Street Corn

While the traditional Elote recipe is always a hit, there are plenty of fun ways to mix things up:

• Cheesy Elote:

  How to Make Authentic Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

  Few dishes embody the vibrant flavors of Mexico like Mexican street corn, also known as Elote. This simple yet delicious dish is a favorite among street vendors throughout Mexico. Made with charred, smoky corn slathered in creamy, tangy toppings, and sprinkled with chili powder, it's a taste sensation that never disappoints. This authentic Mexican street corn recipe brings the best flavors of the streets of Mexico right to your kitchen.

  What is Mexican Street Corn (Elote)?

  Elote is the Mexican term for corn on the cob. While the grilled corn is tasty on its own, the true magic happens when it's smothered in a combination of mayonnaise, crema (Mexican sour cream), cotija cheese, and a dusting of chili powder. A squeeze of lime finishes this dish, adding a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the toppings.

  Why You'll Love This Elote Recipe

  This Elote recipe is simple to make yet full of bold, smoky flavors. Whether you're hosting a summer BBQ or just looking for a unique snack, Mexican street corn is always a hit. It's also highly customizable, meaning you can adjust the heat, seasoning, and toppings to suit your personal taste.

  Ingredients for Authentic Mexican Street Corn

  Before we dive into the steps, let’s gather the ingredients needed for this recipe. Authentic Mexican street corn uses just a few pantry staples and some fresh ingredients to pack a punch of flavor.

  Ingredients:

  • 4 ears of fresh corn (husks removed)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (feta cheese works too)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder (or Tajín seasoning)
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

  How to Make Mexican Street Corn (Step-by-Step Instructions)

  Now that we have everything we need, it’s time to make Mexican street corn. Follow these easy steps to prepare this delicious and authentic dish:

  Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Grilling the corn is essential to achieving that charred, smoky flavor. If you don’t have a grill, you can also roast the corn in the oven or use a grill pan.
  2. Grill the Corn: Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Turn occasionally to ensure all sides are slightly charred, about 10-12 minutes in total. The key is to get a good char, which adds depth of flavor.
  3. Mix the Topping: While the corn is grilling, mix the mayonnaise and crema in a small bowl until smooth. This will be the base of the delicious coating.
  4. Coat the Corn: Once the corn is grilled, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Using a brush or spoon, spread the mayonnaise-crema mixture evenly over each ear of corn.
  5. Add the Cheese: Roll or sprinkle the cotija cheese over the coated corn, ensuring it sticks to the creamy mixture. Be generous with the cheese!
  6. Season with Chili Powder: Sprinkle the chili powder or Tajín seasoning over the corn for a smoky, spicy kick. If you prefer a spicier flavor, feel free to add more.
  7. Finish with Lime: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn, giving it that signature tang. You can also garnish with chopped cilantro for added freshness.
  8. Serve Hot: Mexican street corn is best enjoyed while it’s still hot and fresh off the grill.

  Health Benefits of Mexican Street Corn

  Not only is Mexican street corn delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Corn is rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious choice. By grilling the corn, you enhance its natural sweetness while keeping the recipe relatively healthy. Cotija cheese is also a good source of calcium, while the lime juice provides a boost of Vitamin C.

  Tips for Making the Best Mexican Street Corn

  For the best-tasting Elote, follow these pro tips:

  • Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn is crucial to achieving the right flavor and texture. If possible, buy corn that’s in season for the sweetest and most tender kernels.
  • Get a Good Char: Don’t be afraid to let the corn char slightly. The smoky flavor complements the creamy, tangy toppings perfectly.
  • Use Cotija Cheese: Cotija cheese is traditional for this recipe, but you can substitute it with feta or parmesan if needed. Just be sure to use a crumbly cheese that adds a salty contrast.
  • Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder or Tajín seasoning depending on your spice tolerance. If you prefer more heat, you can also add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.

  Serving Suggestions

  Mexican street corn is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some great ways to serve it:

  • As a Side Dish: Elote makes a fantastic side for grilled meats, tacos, or a fresh salad. It’s especially popular at summer BBQs and outdoor gatherings.
  • As a Snack: Enjoy Mexican street corn on its own as a flavorful snack. It’s filling and fun to eat.
  • Cut Off the Cob: You can also make a version of Elote called Esquites, where the corn kernels are cut off the cob and served in a cup with the same toppings.

  Variations of Mexican Street Corn

  While the traditional Elote recipe is always a hit, there are plenty of fun ways to mix things up:

  • Cheesy Elote: Add shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top for an extra cheesy version.
  • Spicy Elote: Increase the heat by adding cayenne pepper or a spicy hot sauce drizzle.
  • Elote Salad (Esquites): Cut the corn kernels off the cob and mix them with the toppings for an easy-to-eat salad that’s great for potlucks.

  Conclusion

  Mexican street corn is the perfect blend of smoky, creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that brings the essence of Mexican street food to your home. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, preparing a side dish for taco night, or just craving a delicious snack, Elote will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

  Now that you know how to make authentic Mexican street corn, give it a try and wow your family and friends with this tasty treat!