Mexican Street Corn Recipe (Elotes)

5 from 1 vote

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

Course Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine Mexican

Keyword Elotes

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Servings People

Calories 198kcal

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.

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.

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:

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.
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.
Rotate the corn: Turn the corn occasionally while grilling to ensure even cooking and to prevent any side from burning.
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.
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.

Serving: 103g | Calories: 198kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 11.5g