grilled Mexican Street Corn elote

Introduction
If you’re a fan of street food, you’ve probably heard of Mexican Street Corn, or Elote. It’s a beloved Mexican dish featuring grilled corn on the cob coated in creamy, cheesy goodness, with a hint of spice and lime. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just craving a flavorful snack, this easy recipe brings the flavors of Mexico’s bustling street food scene right to your home. Read on to learn how to make this delicious treat and why it’s so popular around the world.

Ingredients (For 4 Servings)

  • 4 ears of corn, husked and cleaned
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Mexican crema for a more authentic taste)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (feta can also work if you can’t find cotija)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder (or Tajín seasoning for a citrusy kick)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (plus extra lime wedges for serving)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Wooden skewers or corn holders, optional

Instructions – Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Prepare the Grill:

    • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a gas grill, set it to about 400°F (200°C). For charcoal grills, ensure the coals are hot and ashy before adding the corn.

  2. Grill the Corn:

    • Place the husked corn directly on the grill grates. Rotate the corn every 2-3 minutes until it’s evenly charred on all sides, about 10 minutes total. The char marks add a smoky flavor and help caramelize the natural sugars in the corn.

  3. Prepare the Topping Mixture:

    • While the corn grills, mix the mayonnaise, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. This creamy base will hold all the toppings on the corn and provide that irresistible tangy flavor.

  4. Assemble the Elote:

    • Once the corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the heat. Using a brush or spoon, coat each ear with the mayonnaise mixture, covering all sides.
    • Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese generously over the corn, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks.
    • Dust the corn with chili powder or Tajín seasoning for a bit of heat and color. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

  5. Garnish and Serve:

    • Top with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve with extra lime wedges for squeezing over the corn right before eating.

Pro Tips for Perfect Mexican Street Corn

  • Use Fresh Corn: Fresh, sweet corn gives the best results as it holds up well to grilling and has a naturally juicy, sweet flavor.
  • Substitute Cotija Cheese: If cotija isn’t available, feta cheese is a close alternative. Both are crumbly, salty cheeses that pair beautifully with the creamy toppings.
  • Experiment with Seasoning: For an authentic Mexican flavor, Tajín seasoning is a popular choice, offering a blend of chili, lime, and salt.
  • Vegetarian Twist: For a vegan version, swap mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or crema alternative, and use dairy-free cheese.

Why Mexican Street Corn (Elote) is So Popular

Mexican Street Corn has exploded in popularity worldwide thanks to its combination of bold flavors and easy preparation. Originating from Mexico’s vibrant street food culture, elote represents the creativity and warmth of Mexican cuisine. The contrast between the sweet corn, creamy mayo, salty cheese, and spicy chili powder creates a balanced flavor that keeps people coming back for more. Whether you’re at a street food market in Mexico City or making it at home, elote brings people together with its simple yet irresistible taste.

Common Questions About Elote

  • Can I make Mexican Street Corn without a grill?
    Yes! You can use a stovetop grill pan or even broil the corn in the oven for similar results. Simply broil on high, turning every 2-3 minutes until charred.

  • What if I don’t have cotija cheese?
    Cotija cheese is authentic, but you can substitute with crumbled feta or Parmesan cheese for a similar salty kick.

  • Is Elote traditionally spicy?
    Traditional elote is often mildly spicy, but you can adjust the level by adding more or less chili powder or using a milder seasoning.

FAQs

Q: Can I prepare the corn in advance?
A: While fresh-grilled corn tastes best, you can pre-grill the corn and reheat it briefly before adding toppings for convenience.

Q: What’s the difference between elote and esquites?
A: Elote is grilled corn on the cob, while esquites is a similar dish where the corn is cut off the cob and served in a cup with toppings.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make authentic Mexican Street Corn, give it a try for your next gathering or snack night. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packs a punch of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re new to Mexican cuisine or just looking to try a new recipe, elote is sure to become a favorite. Have you tried this recipe? Let us know your thoughts or share your own twists in the comments below. Don’t forget to tag us with #MexicanStreetCorn when you share your creation on social media. Enjoy!