Mexican street corn, or elote, is one of the most popular and flavorful street foods you can find in Mexico. It’s a delicious combination of grilled corn on the cob, mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime that will take your taste buds on a fiesta. If you want to make this tasty treat at home, you’re in the right place! Here’s how to make Mexican street corn like a pro.
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start grilling, make sure you have all the ingredients you need. The key to making Mexican street corn like a pro is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh corn on the cob (4 to 6 ears)
- Mayonnaise (about 1/2 cup)
- Cotija cheese (about 1/2 cup, crumbled)
- Chili powder (1 to 2 teaspoons, depending on your heat preference)
- Lime wedges (for squeezing)
- Salt (a pinch)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
You can find most of these ingredients at a local grocery store, but Cotija cheese may require a specialty market or Latin grocery store.
2. Prepare the Corn
The first step is to prepare your corn. Peel away the outer husk and remove the silk. You’ll want to leave some of the husk attached, as it can help hold the corn while grilling. Rinse the corn under cold water to clean it and then pat it dry with a towel.
Once your corn is ready, you can start grilling. If you’re using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the corn in the oven or on a stovetop grill pan.
3. Grill the Corn
Now it’s time to get that delicious smoky flavor! Place your corn directly on the grill, turning occasionally, so the kernels are evenly charred on all sides. It usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes to cook the corn fully. The corn should have a slight char with a golden-brown color.
If you’re using a stovetop grill pan, heat the pan to medium-high and cook the corn, turning it frequently to get an even char.
4. Coat the Corn with Mayonnaise
Once the corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the heat. This is where the magic happens! While the corn is still warm, generously spread mayonnaise over each ear of corn. The mayonnaise will give the corn a creamy base, which helps the cheese and chili powder stick.
For the best flavor, use a generous amount of mayonnaise, but not too much that it overpowers the other ingredients.
5. Add the Cheese and Chili Powder
Next, sprinkle a good amount of crumbled Cotija cheese over the mayonnaise-covered corn. Cotija is a salty, crumbly cheese that perfectly complements the sweetness of the corn. If you can’t find Cotija, you can substitute with Parmesan cheese, although Cotija is more traditional.
Then, sprinkle chili powder generously over the corn. Chili powder gives the dish that smoky and spicy kick that elote is known for. If you want an extra heat boost, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use tahini instead of chili powder for a deeper flavor.
6. Finish with Lime and Salt
To bring out all the flavors, squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn. The tanginess of the lime balances the richness of the mayo and cheese. Finish by sprinkling a pinch of salt over the corn to enhance all the flavors.
You can also garnish the corn with freshly chopped cilantro for an extra burst of color and freshness.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Mexican street corn is now ready to enjoy! Serve it immediately while it’s still warm. Elote is often served on the cob, but you can also cut it off the cob for easier sharing or if you prefer it that way.
Pair your Mexican street corn with other Mexican favorites like tacos, grilled meats, or a cold drink like agua fresca for the perfect meal.
Tips for Making the Perfect Mexican Street Corn
- Grill the Corn Properly: Make sure the corn is cooked well with nice grill marks. Don’t overcook it, as it can become too tough.
- Customize Your Toppings: If you like extra spice, top your corn with hot sauce or a sprinkle of tajín seasoning for an extra kick.
- Make it a Side Dish: Mexican street corn makes a great side dish for summer BBQs, picnics, or even a fun family dinner.
- Try Mexican Crema: If you want a richer, tangier version, substitute the mayonnaise with Mexican crema.
Conclusion: Enjoy Mexican Street Corn at Home
Making Mexican street corn like a pro is easier than you think. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can enjoy this delicious and flavorful dish right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re grilling for a party, a family dinner, or just a treat for yourself, Mexican street corn is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Mexico!
