Mexican Street Corn Recipe (Elotes)

Indulge in the vibrant and irresistible flavors of Mexico with our delicious Mexican Street Corn recipe, also known as Elotes. This iconic street food is a culinary sensation that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Mexico. Bursting with smoky and savory flavors, this recipe combines perfectly grilled corn on the cob with a luscious blend of tangy mayonnaise, crumbly cotija cheese, zesty lime juice, and a sprinkle of chili powder for just the right amount of heat.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a fiesta-inspired feast, or simply craving a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, our easy-to-follow recipe will have you savoring every mouthwatering bite. This Mexican Street Corn is an absolute crowd-pleaser and a true celebration of the incredible flavors found in Mexican street food. So grab your corn skewers, fire up the grill, and get ready to elevate your BBQ game with this irresistible dish. Let the fiesta begin!

History and Cultural Significance of Elotes

The history of Mexican street corn, or elotes, can be traced back to the ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, where corn was a staple crop. The indigenous peoples of Mexico cultivated and consumed corn in various forms, and elotes emerged as a popular street food in Mexico City during the early 20th century. This humble yet delicious dish quickly gained popularity and became an integral part of Mexican culture.

Elotes hold great cultural significance in Mexican cuisine as they represent the fusion of indigenous ingredients and flavors with European influences. The combination of grilled corn, creamy mayonnaise, tangy lime juice, and crumbly cotija cheese showcases the diverse culinary heritage of Mexico. Today, elotes are enjoyed by people of all ages and are a common sight at street food stalls, festivals, and family gatherings throughout Mexico.

Mexican Street Corn Recipe (Elotes)

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4 People

Calories 198 kcal

This iconic street food is a culinary sensation that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Mexico.

Kitchen equipment list

• 1 Outdoor grill

Ingredients

  

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• ▢ Fresh corn on the cob: Look for plump and juicy ears of corn with bright green husks.
• ▢ Mayonnaise: Use a good-quality mayonnaise to achieve a creamy and tangy flavor.
• ▢ Cotija cheese: This crumbly Mexican cheese adds a salty and nutty taste to the corn.
• ▢ Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a zesty kick to the dish.
• ▢ Chili powder: Sprinkle chili powder over the corn for a hint of heat and smokiness.
• ▢ Fresh cilantro: Finely chopped cilantro adds a refreshing and herbaceous element.

Instructions 

• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
• Peel back the husks of the corn, leaving them attached at the base.
• Remove the silk threads from the corn and carefully fold the husks back up.
• Place the corn on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
• While the corn is grilling, prepare the toppings. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and lime juice.
• Once the corn is cooked, carefully peel back the husks, exposing the kernels.
• Using a brush or spoon, generously coat each ear of corn with the mayonnaise mixture.
• Sprinkle cotija cheese over the corn, followed by chili powder and chopped cilantro.
• Serve immediately and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of Mexican street corn.

❋ Kitchen Chaos Unlocked Tips

Tips and Tricks for Grilling Perfect Elotes

Grilling corn can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips and tricks, you can achieve perfectly cooked elotes every time:

1. Soak the corn: Before grilling, soak the corn in water for about 15 minutes. This helps to keep the kernels moist and prevents them from drying out on the grill.
2. Preheat the grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the corn. This ensures even cooking and helps to achieve a nice char on the kernels.
3. Rotate the corn: Turn the corn occasionally while grilling to ensure even cooking and to prevent any side from burning.
4. Baste with butter: For added flavor and moisture, baste the corn with melted butter before grilling. This creates a delicious caramelized crust on the kernels.
5. Customize the heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder or other spices according to your preferred level of heat. You can also offer different spice options for your guests to choose from.

By following these tips, you'll be able to grill perfect elotes that are tender, juicy, and packed with smoky flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 103 gCalories: 198 kcalCarbohydrates: 21 gProtein: 7 gFat: 11.5 g

Keyword Elotes

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Variations and Toppings for Mexican Street Corn

While the classic elotes recipe is undeniably delicious, you can also experiment with different variations and toppings to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas to inspire your creativity:

1. Spicy Chipotle: Add a smoky and spicy twist by mixing chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with the mayonnaise.
2. Garlic Parmesan: Replace cotija cheese with grated Parmesan and add minced garlic to the mayonnaise mixture for a flavorful combination.
3. Avocado Crema: Blend ripe avocados with sour cream, lime juice, and cilantro to create a creamy and rich topping.
4. Cajun Seasoning: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the corn for a bold and flavorful kick.
5. Sweet and Savory: Drizzle the grilled corn with honey or maple syrup and sprinkle with crispy bacon for a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.

Feel free to get creative and experiment with various toppings to personalize your Mexican street corn.

Serving and Enjoying Mexican Street Corn

Mexican street corn is best enjoyed immediately after grilling while the flavors are still fresh and vibrant. Serve the elotes on a platter or individual plates, garnished with additional cotija cheese, chili powder, and cilantro for an eye-catching presentation.

To eat elotes, hold the corn skewers or use your hands to enjoy this delicious street food. Sink your teeth into the juicy kernels, savoring the creamy mayo, tangy lime, and crumbly cheese. The combination of flavors creates a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy that will tantalize your taste buds.

Mexican street corn can be a messy delight, so keep plenty of napkins on hand. Don’t be shy about licking your fingers or getting a little messy – it’s all part of the experience!

Health Benefits of Elotes

While Mexican street corn is undoubtedly indulgent and flavorful, it also offers some surprising health benefits:

1. Nutritional value: Corn is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It contains essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin B6, folate, and magnesium.
2. Antioxidants: Corn is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body against oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
3. Eye health: The yellow color of corn indicates the presence of lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that are beneficial for eye health.
4. Digestive health: The fiber content in corn promotes healthy digestion and can help prevent constipation.
5. Energy boost: Corn is a complex carbohydrate that provides sustained energy, making it a great addition to your diet before physical activity.

While elotes should be enjoyed in moderation due to their high calorie and fat content, the nutritional benefits of corn make this street food a guilt-free indulgence.

Popular Mexican Street Corn Vendors and Festivals

Mexican street corn is not only a beloved dish in Mexico but has also gained popularity worldwide. Numerous street food vendors, restaurants, and food trucks have embraced the flavors of elotes and incorporated them into their menus. Here are a few notable Mexican street corn vendors and festivals worth exploring:

1. La Esquina del Chilaquil (Mexico City): This iconic food stall in Mexico City is renowned for its mouthwatering elotes. Locals and tourists flock to La Esquina del Chilaquil to savor the authentic flavors of Mexican street corn.
2. Smorgasburg (Los Angeles): This popular food market in Los Angeles features a variety of street food vendors, including some who specialize in Mexican street corn. Smorgasburg is a great place to sample different variations and toppings of elotes.
3. Elote Man (Chicago): A true institution in Chicago, Elote Man offers a unique take on Mexican street corn. They serve their elotes in a cup, making it a convenient option for enjoying this delicious dish on the go.
4. Feria del Elote (Mexico): Each year, the Feria del Elote, or Corn Festival, takes place in Jala, Nayarit, Mexico. This vibrant festival celebrates all things corn, including elotes. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of corn-based dishes, live music, and cultural performances.

Attending these festivals and exploring local vendors is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the world of Mexican street corn and experience the diverse flavors and creativity of this beloved street food.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Mexican Street Corn

Mexican street corn, or elotes, is a true culinary masterpiece that embodies the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Mexico. From its humble origins on the bustling streets of Mexico City to its global popularity today, elotes have captivated the hearts and taste buds of people around the world.

With its smoky grilled corn, creamy mayo, tangy lime, crumbly cheese, and spicy chili powder, Mexican street corn offers a symphony of flavors that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Mexico. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, attending a food festival, or simply craving a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, elotes are sure to be a hit.

So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and elevate your BBQ game with this irresistible dish. Let the flavors of Mexico come alive as you savor each mouthwatering bite of Mexican street corn. ¡Buen provecho!