Mexican Street Corn

Mexican Street Corn, also known as “Elote,” is a popular and flavorful dish that brings the vibrant tastes of Mexico right to your plate. This grilled corn recipe is slathered in a creamy, tangy sauce, then topped with crumbly cotija cheese, chili powder, and fresh cilantro.

Perfect for summer barbecues or as a side dish, this corn is a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and delicious. Enjoy the blend of smoky, spicy, and citrusy flavors that make this dish a favorite at street fairs and backyard gatherings alike.

Mexican Street Corn

Ingredients:

1/2 cup mayonnaise

8 ears corn on the cob shucked

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

2 tablespoons lime juice

1/2 cup cotija cheese finely grated

1/2 cup Mexican crema or sour cream

1/4 cup cilantro leaves chopped

Instructions:

Preheat a grill to medium heat. Brush the oil over the corn cobs.

Grill the corn for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.

While the corn is cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, crema, and lime juice in a small bowl.

Let the corn cool for 5 minutes. Brush the mayonnaise mixture all over the corn.

Sprinkle the cotija cheese, chili powder, and cilantro leaves over the corn, then serve.

Enjoy !!

Notes:

Grilling Tips: For the best flavor, make sure the corn is charred evenly on all sides. This adds a smoky depth to the dish that complements the creamy toppings.

Alternative Cooking Methods: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the corn on a stovetop grill pan or roast it in the oven at 400°F until it’s tender and slightly charred.

Cotija Cheese Substitute: If cotija cheese is unavailable, feta cheese or grated Parmesan can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to your taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mayonnaise mixture.

Serving Suggestions: Mexican Street Corn can be served on the cob or cut off the cob and mixed into a salad. It pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a Mexican-inspired meal.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the mayonnaise mixture and grate the cheese in advance, making it easier to assemble the corn once it’s cooked.

Extra Zing: For added flavor, sprinkle some Tajín (a Mexican seasoning made with chili powder, lime, and salt) on the corn just before serving.

Vegan Option: Substitute the mayonnaise and crema with vegan mayo and a plant-based sour cream to make this dish vegan-friendly.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 8 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn on the cob?

Yes, you can use frozen corn, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

Thaw the corn and try grilling it to achieve a similar charred effect.

What can I use as a substitute for cotija cheese?

If you can’t find cotija cheese, you can substitute it with feta cheese, which has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or even broil the corn in the oven to achieve a similar charred effect.

Is Mexican crema necessary, or can I use sour cream?

Mexican crema adds a slightly tangy flavor and smoother texture, but sour cream is a great substitute if you don’t have crema on hand.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, to make this recipe vegan, use a vegan mayonnaise, omit the cheese, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

You can also substitute the Mexican crema with a vegan sour cream.

How do I adjust the spiciness?

You can adjust the spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder.

If you prefer extra heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can grill the corn and prepare the sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the corn with the sauce, cheese, and seasonings just before serving for the freshest taste.

What other toppings can I add?

You can add other toppings like crumbled bacon, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.

Can this recipe be made healthier?

To make a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, reduce the amount of cheese, or use a light sour cream.

Grilling the corn without oil is another option to reduce fat content.