Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a delightful and flavorful dish that brings together the sweetness of corn with savory toppings. Grilled or boiled, then slathered with a creamy sauce and sprinkled with spices, this dish is perfect for summer barbecues or as a snack. It’s a fiesta of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Mexico!
Ingredients
– 4 ears of corn, husked
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Salt, to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 ear of corn with toppings) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g fat, 35g carbohydrates, 7g protein, and 3g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Husk the corn and remove all silk.
3. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred.
4. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt.
5. Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly.
6. Generously brush the creamy mixture over each ear of corn.
7. Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese over the top of the corn.
8. Add extra chili powder for seasoning.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
10. Serve immediately while warm.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute cotija cheese with feta or Parmesan cheese for a different flavor. Additionally, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter option. For a vegan version, use vegan mayo and a dairy-free cream alternative.
Serving and Pairings
Elote corn is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, tacos, or as a standalone snack. Pair it with a refreshing beverage like agua fresca or a light beer for a complete experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover elote corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the grill until warmed through. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to a month; just note that the texture may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip the grilling; it adds essential flavor.
- Ensure corn is fresh for the best taste.
- Don’t overcook the corn; it should remain tender and juicy.
- Be careful with the amount of salt; cheese can be salty.
- Mix the creamy sauce thoroughly for even distribution.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add lime zest to the sauce.
- Try adding chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Use a grill basket for smaller pieces of corn.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for unique tastes.
FAQs
What is elote corn?
Elote corn is a traditional Mexican street food made by grilling corn on the cob, then slathering it with a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, cheese, and spices. It’s known for its rich flavor and is often served with lime and chili powder.
Can I make elote corn in the oven?
Yes, you can roast the corn in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes. Turn occasionally for even cooking. Then, prepare the toppings as you would for grilled corn.
Is elote corn healthy?
In moderation, elote corn can be part of a healthy diet. It offers fiber from the corn and can be made lighter by adjusting the sauce components, such as using yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
Can I make elote corn without cheese?
Absolutely! You can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative if you prefer a lighter dish or are following a vegan diet.
What can I serve with elote corn?
Elote corn pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or salads. It also makes a great snack on its own or as part of a larger spread at parties.
Conclusion
This elote corn recipe captures the essence of Mexican street food right in your kitchen. It’s a delightful dish that combines sweet corn with creamy and spicy flavors, making it a favorite for gatherings or a quick snack. Try it out and enjoy a taste of Mexico!
Elote Corn
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn husked
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cotija cheese crumbled
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Husk the corn and remove all silk.
- Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt.
- Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly.
- Generously brush the creamy mixture over each ear of corn.
- Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese over the top of the corn.
- Add extra chili powder for seasoning.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve immediately while warm.