Mexican Street Corn On The Cob, famously known as Elote, is more than just a dish; it’s an iconic taste of Mexico. This beloved street food tantalizes taste buds with its perfect blend of smoky char, creamy richness, and salty cheese. Easy to make with just a handful of ingredients, this recipe will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico.
What is Mexican Street Corn (Elote)?
Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a culinary gem deeply rooted in Mexican street food culture. Imagine walking through a bustling Mexican market and encountering the irresistible aroma of grilled corn. That’s the magic of elote. Corn on the cob is grilled to smoky perfection and then generously coated with a luscious combination of butter and mayonnaise. The final touch? A sprinkle of salty Cotija cheese that elevates this simple dish to an unforgettable experience. It’s this unique combination of flavors and textures that makes Mexican street corn a true culinary delight.
Authentic Mexican Street Corn on the Cob Recipe
Ready to bring the taste of authentic Mexican street corn into your kitchen? This recipe is incredibly straightforward and uses readily available ingredients.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn, shucked
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
- Chili powder or Tajin seasoning (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Grill the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the shucked corn on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until lightly charred on all sides. This should take about 10-15 minutes. The charring process is key to developing the signature smoky flavor of elote.
- Butter Bath: Once grilled, immediately roll each corn cob in melted butter. Ensure the entire surface is coated for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Mayonnaise Coating: Spread mayonnaise evenly over each buttered corn cob. Don’t be shy with the mayonnaise; it’s crucial for the creamy texture and tangy flavor that defines elote.
- Cheese Sprinkle: Generously sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese over the mayonnaise-coated corn. The salty and crumbly nature of Cotija cheese perfectly complements the sweetness of the corn and the richness of the mayonnaise and butter.
- Serve Immediately: Mexican street corn is best enjoyed fresh off the grill. Serve immediately with lime wedges for a burst of citrus, and optionally, a dusting of chili powder or Tajin for a touch of heat and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added freshness.
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Tips for the Best Elote
- Fresh Corn is Key: Use the freshest corn you can find for the best flavor. Look for ears with plump kernels and bright green husks.
- Don’t Overcook: Grill the corn until it’s lightly charred, not burnt. Overcooking can dry out the corn.
- Customize Your Spice: Adjust the amount of chili powder or Tajin to your preference. Cayenne pepper can also be used for extra heat.
- Get Creative with Cheese: While Cotija is traditional, you can experiment with other salty cheeses like queso fresco if Cotija is unavailable.
Serving Suggestions
Mexican street corn is a fantastic side dish for any BBQ, picnic, or Mexican-themed feast. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, tacos, or enjoyed as a flavorful vegetarian option. For a truly authentic Mexican experience, serve elote alongside other traditional dishes.
Elote Variations
While the classic elote recipe is perfection, feel free to explore variations to suit your taste:
- Spicy Elote: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the mayonnaise or sprinkle chili flakes over the finished elote for extra heat.
- Herbaceous Elote: Mix chopped cilantro, parsley, or even epazote into the mayonnaise for a fresh, herbaceous twist.
- Creamy Elote: Add a tablespoon of Mexican crema or sour cream to the mayonnaise for an even creamier texture.
Enjoy the taste of authentic Mexican street food with this easy and flavorful Mexican Street Corn on the Cob recipe. It’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and a delicious way to experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico.
