Mexican Street Corn Recipe For Elote Flavors

This Mexican Street Corn recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect blend of creamy and savory flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Its simplicity and delightful taste transform ordinary corn into an extraordinary treat, making every bite a memorable experience.

Mexican Street Corn Recipe

What is Elote?

Elote, also known as Mexican street corn, is a popular snack found throughout Mexico and is often sold by street vendors. But here we try presenting this recipe with you to make at home. This dish consists of cooked sweet corn on the cob that is slathered with a mix of mayonnaise, sour cream, and chili powder, then sprinkled with cotija cheese and lime juice for added flavor. Elote combines a creamy and tangy taste with the natural sweetness of the corn, creating a delicious and unique treat that’s enjoyed as a side dish or a festive snack.

Ingredients

5 ears fresh corn , husked
For the Spread:
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 Tablespoons sour cream, or Greek yogurt
¼ teaspoon garlic salt
Juice from one lime
For the Topping:
¼ cup grated Cotija cheese (or Parmesan, Feta or Queso Fresco)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or chili powder if you want heat)
Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Pierce a skewer halfway into the bottom of each corn cob. (If using wooden skewers, soak skewers in water for 30 minutes, first.)
Preheat the grill to medium heat (between 350-450 degrees F).
Place the corn directly over the heat, cover, and let cook for 10 to 15 minutes, turning often, until the kernels are spotted brown.
Meanwhile, combine the spread ingredients in a small bowl, and the topping ingredients in a separate small bowl; set aside.
Carefully remove the corn cob from the grill and transfer to a large platter. Smear the spread all over each corn cob, then sprinkle evenly with the topping. Serve immediately.

Spice Adjustments:

Since everyone’s spice tolerance varies, offering a range of options for adjusting the level of spiciness can make the recipe more adaptable. Including a mild version for those who are sensitive to heat, and suggesting additional spices or peppers for those who enjoy extra spice, can make the recipe flexible for all tastes.

Serving Suggestions:

Mexican Street Corn pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile side for Mexican meals or backyard BBQs.

Grilled Chicken Tacos
Enchiladas
Santa Fe Burger
Mexican Corn Salad
Taco Soup or Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Easy Mexican Rice

Tips and Tricks

Although grilling the corn adds a delicious char and depth of flavor, boiling is also an option if you’re unable to grill. Boil the corn cobs for 5 minutes for a softer texture.
The recipe involves mixing mayonnaise, sour cream, and a few spices for the corn’s creamy spread. Getting this blend right is key to authentic Mexican street corn flavor.
Feel free to adjust the level of spices to suit your taste. The recipe is flexible, allowing for customization in spice level and creaminess.
If you decide to pierce the corn with wooden skewers for easy handling, soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand. This prevents the skewers from burning or scorching on the grill.

Eating sweet corn as part of the Mexican Street Corn Recipe can offer several health benefits:

Nutrient-Rich: Sweet corn is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin C, thiamine (vitamin B1), and folate. These nutrients support various bodily functions such as immune defense, energy production, and DNA synthesis.
Antioxidant Properties: Corn contains antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health and help protect the cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Digestive Health: The fiber in sweet corn aids in maintaining healthy digestion and regular bowel movements, helping to prevent constipation and supporting gut health.
Energy Booster: Being high in carbohydrates, sweet corn provides a quick source of energy, making it a great option for a pre-workout snack or to refuel energy levels.
Heart Health: The fiber in sweet corn can also contribute to heart health by helping to lower cholesterol levels, thus reducing the risk of heart disease.
Weight Management: Though sweet corn is calorie-dense, its fiber content can increase feelings of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management when consumed in moderation.