The Best Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Mexican street corn, or “Elote,” is a beloved street food staple that captures the heart of Mexican cuisine.

Charred corn on the cob slathered with creamy, tangy, and spicy goodness, elote is a treat for the senses.

This guide will take you through the steps of making the best Mexican street corn,

Ingredients for the Best Mexican Street Corn

To make authentic Mexican street corn, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
• 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons of sour cream or Mexican crema
• 1/2 cup of crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
• 1 tablespoon of chili powder (or Tajín for extra zest)
• 1 tablespoon of lime juice
• Chopped cilantro for garnish
• Salt to taste
• Butter (optional)

How to Make the Best Mexican Street Corn

1. Grill the Corn

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you don’t have a grill, you can use a stovetop grill pan.
• Place the corn on the grill, turning occasionally until it’s charred and cooked through. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
• Tip: For a deeper flavor, brush the corn with a bit of melted butter before grilling.

2. Prepare the Sauce

• In a bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Mexican crema), lime juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
• Tip: You can add a little garlic powder or smoked paprika to the mixture for an extra burst of flavor.

3. Assemble the Elote

• Once the corn is cooked, slather it generously with the sauce mixture using a brush or spoon.
• Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese all over the corn, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
• Dust the corn with chili powder or Tajín to your desired spice level.
• Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added brightness.

4. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the Mexican street corn immediately while it’s still warm. This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the grill.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Mexican Street Corn

1. Choose Fresh Corn

• Fresh, sweet corn is key to making the best elote. If possible, buy corn on the cob that’s in season for the sweetest flavor.

2. Alternative Cooking Methods

• If you don’t have a grill, you can roast the corn in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast the corn on a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
• You can also boil the corn, though it won’t have the smoky flavor that grilling provides.

3. Customize Your Toppings

• Experiment with different toppings! Some popular additions include hot sauce for extra heat, crumbled bacon for a smoky crunch, or avocado slices for a creamy contrast.
• If you’re looking for a healthier version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use less cheese.

4. Make It Mess-Free

• Elote can be messy to eat. If you’re serving it at a gathering, consider cutting the corn off the cob and mixing it with the sauce and toppings to make “Esquites” or Mexican street corn salad, which is easier to serve and enjoy.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen or canned corn? A: Fresh corn is preferred for the best flavor and texture, but in a pinch, you can use frozen corn. If using frozen, thaw and pat it dry before grilling. Canned corn can be used for esquites (off-the-cob version), but it won’t have the same charred flavor.

Q: How can I make it less spicy? A: Adjust the amount of chili powder or use a mild version. Tajín seasoning is a great alternative as it provides tanginess without too much heat.

Q: What can I use instead of Cotija cheese? A: Feta cheese is a good substitute if you can’t find Cotija. Parmesan can also work in a pinch, though it has a different flavor profile.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Mexican street corn is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, wrap the corn in foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions for Mexican Street Corn

Mexican street corn is a versatile side dish that pairs well with many meals. Here are some ideas:

• BBQ Feast: Serve alongside grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork ribs for a delicious BBQ spread.
• Taco Night: Add elote to your taco night menu for a festive and flavorful side dish.
• Party Platter: Cut the corn into smaller sections and serve as an appetizer at your next gathering.
• Vegetarian Option: Pair it with a hearty salad or grilled vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

See also: The Best Grilled Corn on the Cob EVER

This Post was all about the Best Mexican Street Corn Recipe

With this guide, you’re all set to make the best Mexican street corn at home.

Whether you’re grilling up a summer feast or looking for a tasty side dish, elote is sure to impress with its combination of smoky, creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors.

So fire up the grill, grab some fresh corn, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Mexican street food in the comfort of your home!