The aroma of grilled corn smothered in creamy goodness hits you like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Homemade Mexican Street Corn, or Elote, is the perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors that dances on your taste buds and leaves you craving more. For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.
Imagine biting into tender corn kernels coated in zesty lime, melted cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder, all while the sun sets behind you. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience meant for summer barbecues, lazy afternoons with friends, or even a cozy dinner at home. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful dish is incredibly easy to whip up, allowing you to impress guests without breaking a sweat
- The combination of flavors creates an explosion of taste that’s simply irresistible
- Its vibrant colors make it a showstopper at any gathering
- You can customize toppings based on your preferences for added flair
Sharing this recipe with friends led to some unforgettable reactions; they couldn’t believe how delicious and simple it was!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Corn on the Cob: Look for plump ears with bright green husks for the best flavor and sweetness.
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Mayonnaise: Use full-fat mayo for creaminess that perfectly complements the corn’s natural sweetness.
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Crumbled Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese adds a tangy punch; feel free to substitute feta if needed.
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Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice enhances the flavors; bottled juice just won’t cut it!
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Chili Powder: A sprinkle adds heat; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
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Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro brings a burst of herbal freshness—add if you’re a fan!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Homemade Mexican Street Corn
Prep Your Corn: Start by husking the corn and removing all those pesky silk strands. Rinse them under cold water to freshen up before cooking.
Grill or Boil the Corn: Cook your corn either by boiling it for about 5-7 minutes or grilling it over medium heat until charred and tender, around 10 minutes.
Create the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, lime juice, and chili powder until smooth. Adjust flavors as needed—don’t be shy!
Coat the Corn: Once cooked, slather the corn with that heavenly sauce using a brush or spoon until every kernel is covered.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese generously over each ear of corn and finish with extra chili powder for an eye-catching presentation.
Serve and Enjoy!: Serve immediately while hot! Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, then take a moment to admire your masterpiece before devouring it.
With these simple instructions, you’ll create an authentic Homemade Mexican Street Corn experience that will have everyone asking for seconds—or thirds! Enjoy every bite as this dish takes you on a culinary journey right through Mexico’s vibrant streets.
You Must Know
- This homemade Mexican street corn recipe is vibrant and packed with flavor, giving you a taste of the streets of Mexico
- The creamy texture and zesty toppings will have your taste buds dancing with joy
- It’s perfect for summer barbecues or cozy nights in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, grill the corn until slightly charred, then mix it with the sauce while it’s still warm to enhance flavor absorption.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding crumbled feta cheese or diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Feel free to experiment with spices like paprika or chili powder for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to retain that delicious creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly grilled corn, soak it in water for 30 minutes before grilling to ensure juicy kernels
- Use fresh lime juice and zest for added brightness and flavor
- Don’t forget to let your grilled corn cool slightly before adding toppings for optimal flavor melding!
Biting into this homemade Mexican street corn always takes me back to street fairs in Mexico City, where every corner had vendors serving up delicious snacks. Each bite brings a smile from friends and family who can’t get enough of this dish!
FAQ
What is homemade Mexican street corn?
Homemade Mexican street corn features grilled corn coated in creamy sauce and topped with cotija cheese.
Can I make homemade Mexican street corn vegan?
Yes, substitute vegan mayonnaise and plant-based cheese for a delicious vegan version.
How do I choose the best corn for this recipe?
Look for fresh, sweet corn with bright green husks and plump kernels for optimal flavor.
Homemade Mexican Street Corn
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the vibrant flavors of Homemade Mexican Street Corn, or Elote, a delightful dish that combines smoky grilled corn with a creamy sauce, zesty lime, and tangy Cotija cheese. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy dinners, this easy-to-make recipe will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 4 ears fresh corn on the cob
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Husk the corn and remove silk strands. Rinse under cold water.
- Boil for 5-7 minutes or grill over medium heat for about 10 minutes until charred and tender.
- Combine mayonnaise, lime juice, and chili powder in a small bowl; mix until smooth.
- Brush or spoon the sauce generously over each ear of warm corn.
- Sprinkle with Cotija cheese and extra chili powder before serving hot. Garnish with cilantro if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling/Boiling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn (approximately 149g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 340 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg