Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of summer. Grilled corn on the cob is slathered in creamy sauces, topped with tangy cheese, and sprinkled with spices, making it an irresistible treat. This elote corn recipe is perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or simply to enjoy as a delightful side. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process to bring this classic dish to life!
Ingredients
– 4 ears of fresh corn
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
– Salt to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
This nutritional value is based on one serving (1 ear of corn):
– Calories: 210
– Protein: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 23g
– Fat: 12g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sugar: 3g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Husk the corn, removing all silk and leaves.
3. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred.
4. In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and salt.
5. Once the corn is grilled, remove it from the heat.
6. Brush the corn generously with the mayonnaise mixture.
7. Sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese all over the corn.
8. Dust with chili powder for an extra kick.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor.
10. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Alternative Ingredients
For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. Additionally, if cotija cheese is unavailable, feta cheese makes a great alternative. For a vegan option, use plant-based mayo and omit the cheese.
Serving and Pairings
Elote corn is best served warm. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or steak and can be accompanied by a fresh salad or spicy salsa for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover elote corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the corn on a grill or in a preheated oven for a few minutes. It can also be frozen, but the texture may change upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the corn can make it tough; aim for tenderness with a bit of char.
- Don’t skip the lime juice; it adds essential flavor and brightness.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste; canned corn won’t have the same effect.
- Be generous with the cheese and spices; it enhances the dish significantly.
- Allow the corn to cool slightly before serving to avoid burns.
Helpful Tips
- Soak corn in water for 30 minutes before grilling for extra moisture.
- Experiment with different cheeses like Parmesan for a unique twist.
- Try adding hot sauce to the mayo mix for added heat.
- For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead of chili powder.
FAQs
What is elote corn?
Elote corn is a traditional Mexican street food made from grilled corn on the cob that is slathered with mayonnaise, sour cream, cheese, and spices. It’s a popular snack enjoyed at fairs and outdoor gatherings.
Can I make elote corn in the oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast the corn for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally. Finish with the toppings as you would on the grill.
Is elote corn gluten-free?
Yes, elote corn is naturally gluten-free as it primarily consists of corn and toppings that do not contain gluten. Always check individual ingredient labels to ensure they are gluten-free.
Can I prepare elote corn ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can grill the corn ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Apply toppings just before serving to maintain flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for cotija cheese?
If cotija cheese is not available, feta cheese is a great substitute that provides a similar salty flavor. You can also use grated Parmesan for a different taste.
Conclusion
This elote corn recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings a taste of Mexico to your table. Its combination of creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors makes it an irresistible dish for any occasion. Enjoy this delightful recipe with friends and family, and savor every bite of summer!
Elote Corn
Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Husk the corn, removing all silk and leaves.
- Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred.
- In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and salt.
- Once the corn is grilled, remove it from the heat.
- Brush the corn generously with the mayonnaise mixture.
- Sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese all over the corn.
- Dust with chili powder for an extra kick.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
