Mexican Corn In A Cup, also known as Elote en Vaso or Esquites, is a beloved street food that perfectly captures the vibrant flavors of Mexico. This isn’t just corn; it’s a creamy, zesty, and slightly spicy explosion in a cup that’s incredibly easy to make at home. If you’re looking to bring the taste of authentic Mexican street food to your kitchen, you’ve come to the right place.
Close-up of Mexican Corn in a Cup with chili powder and cheese, showcasing a delicious and authentic street food experience.
What is Mexican Corn in a Cup?
Mexican Corn in a Cup, or Elote en Vaso, is the deconstructed version of Elote, the iconic Mexican street corn on the cob. Imagine all the fantastic flavors of grilled Mexican street corn – sweet corn, creamy mayonnaise, tangy lime, salty cheese, and a kick of chili – but served conveniently in a cup. This makes it easier to eat and enjoy, especially if you’re not a fan of nibbling corn directly off the cob. Sometimes also referred to as Esquites, which typically means toasted corn, the essence remains the same: delicious Mexican street corn flavors, served in a cup for your enjoyment.
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Corn in a Cup Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves Mexican flavors and corn. Here’s why you’ll be making Mexican corn in a cup again and again:
- Authentic Flavor: It perfectly replicates the taste of street vendor elote en vaso you’d find in Mexico and across the American Southwest.
- Easy to Eat: No more messy corn on the cob! Enjoy every kernel with a spoon.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a fast side dish or snack.
- Versatile: Serve it hot or cold, customize toppings to your liking.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties, barbecues, or a flavorful side for family dinners.
Serving of Mexican Corn in a Cup with visible corn kernels, mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder, emphasizing the ease and appeal of this dish as a party appetizer.
Key Ingredients for Authentic Elote en Vaso
To make truly delicious Mexican corn in a cup, you’ll need these key ingredients:
- Fresh Corn: Sweet summer corn, cut straight from the cob, is the absolute best. However, frozen or canned corn (drained well) can work in a pinch.
- Mayonnaise: This provides the creamy base. Some variations use Mexican crema or sour cream, but mayonnaise is classic and delivers a rich texture.
- Margarine or Butter: Margarine is surprisingly common in authentic street versions for its distinct flavor, but butter works wonderfully too, adding richness.
- Cotija Cheese: This hard, salty Mexican cheese is essential for that authentic taste. Parmesan or queso fresco can be substituted if cotija isn’t available.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds the crucial tangy zest that balances the richness of the mayonnaise and cheese.
- Chili Powder: Use a good quality chili powder or, for a more authentic touch, ancho chili powder for a mild heat and fruity depth.
- Hot Sauce: Your favorite hot sauce adds a customizable level of spice. Cholula or Tapatio are popular choices for Mexican-style corn.
Ingredients for Mexican Corn in a Cup laid out, featuring corn on the cob, mayonnaise, margarine, cotija cheese, limes, and chili powder, highlighting the fresh and flavorful components.
How to Make Mexican Corn in a Cup: Step-by-Step
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious elote en vaso at home:
- Cook the Corn: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shucked corn and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the kernels are tender-crisp. Drain the corn.
- Cut the Kernels: Once the corn is cool enough to handle, cut the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife. Place the kernels in a large bowl.
- Mix Ingredients: Add mayonnaise, melted margarine (or butter), crumbled cotija cheese, and fresh lime juice to the bowl with the corn. Mix everything together until well combined and creamy.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the Mexican corn in cups. Top generously with chili powder and your favorite hot sauce to taste. Fresh cilantro is also a great addition for garnish.
Step-by-step process of making Mexican Corn in a Cup, from cooking corn kernels to mixing with creamy ingredients and cheese, demonstrating the simplicity of the recipe.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
- Serve it Hot or Cold: Enjoy it warm right after making it, or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing cold corn salad. Both ways are delicious!
- Spice it Up: Add finely diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for extra heat.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like queso fresco for a milder flavor or parmesan for a sharper taste.
- Herb Garnish: Fresh cilantro is classic, but chopped parsley or even a sprinkle of oregano can add different herbal notes.
- Party Appetizer: Serve in small disposable cups for a fun and easy appetizer at your next fiesta.
Final presentation of Mexican Corn in a Cup, garnished with chili powder and hot sauce, ready to be served in individual cups, showcasing its appeal as a flavorful and easy-to-serve dish.
Embrace the Taste of Mexico
Mexican corn in a cup is more than just a side dish; it’s a taste of Mexican street food culture that you can easily recreate at home. With its creamy, spicy, and zesty flavors, it’s guaranteed to become a new favorite. Gather your ingredients, follow this simple recipe, and get ready to enjoy the authentic taste of Mexican Elote en Vaso!
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, shucked
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise or sour cream
- 4 tablespoons margarine or butter, melted
- 8 tablespoons cotija cheese, crumbled (or parmesan)
- 1 lime, juiced
- Chili powder and hot sauce, for serving
Instructions:
- Place corn in a large pot of boiling water. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender. Remove corn and drain.
- Cut off kernels and place in a large bowl.
- Mix the corn with mayonnaise, margarine, cheese, and lime juice until well combined.
- Serve with chili powder and hot sauce for toppings.
Enjoy your homemade Mexican Corn in a Cup!
