Street Corn
Street corn, also known as elote, is a popular Mexican street food that brings together sweet corn, creamy sauces, and bold seasonings in a delicious combination. Grilled to perfection and slathered in a tangy mixture, it is the ultimate summer snack or side dish for any gathering. Whether you’re at a backyard barbecue or a festive celebration, street corn never fails to impress. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish that will elevate your culinary game!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 320
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
Why Make This Street Corn
Street corn is not just a treat for the palate; it’s also visually stunning with its bright yellow kernels, creamy white sauce, and vibrant green cilantro. The combination of flavors is irresistible—the sweetness of the corn contrasts beautifully with the tang of lime, the richness of mayonnaise, and the salty bite of cotija cheese. Perfect for summer barbecues or as a side dish to tacos, this dish is simple to prepare and offers a delightful taste that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
How to Make Street Corn
## Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
## Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Begin by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that your corn gets those beautiful char marks while cooking.
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Step 2: Cooking
Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. You’re looking for the kernels to get nicely charred, adding that smoky flavor we love in street corn.
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Step 3: Mixing
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder. Mix until smooth and well-blended, creating a creamy mixture to dress the corn.
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Step 4: Finishing
Once the corn is charred, remove it from the grill. Brush it generously with the creamy mixture you prepared. Next, sprinkle the cotija cheese all over the corn and add a pinch of salt to taste. Finish with a scattering of fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor before serving.
How to Serve Street Corn
Street corn can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a delicious snack on its own. Pair it with grilled meats or tacos for a complete meal. For an extra touch, serve it with lime wedges for guests to drizzle over for added zest.
How to Store Street Corn
If you have leftovers, store the corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy it within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture. To reheat, place it back on the grill or use a skillet to warm it up slightly.
Expert Tips for Perfect Street Corn
- For added depth of flavor, try adding minced garlic or a dash of smoked paprika to the creamy mixture.
- If cotija cheese is unavailable, feta cheese can be a great substitute.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your spice preference; smoked paprika can also be a great alternative.
Delicious Variations
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: Take the same ingredients and combine them into a salad format. Cut the corn off the cob and mix with the sauce, cotija, and fresh herbs for an easy, shareable dish.
- Spicy Street Corn: Add diced jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick, or use a spicier chili powder.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen corn? While fresh corn yields the best flavor, you can use frozen corn. Place it on the grill in a grill basket until charred.
- What if I don’t have a grill? You can roast the corn in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, or use a stovetop grill pan.
- How can I make this dairy-free? Substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with avocado or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
- Can I make it ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately from the corn for up to 2 days before grilling.
- What’s the best way to cut corn off the cob? Stand the cob upright in a bowl and slice downwards to easily catch the kernels in the bowl without making a mess.
Conclusion
Making street corn at home is not only easy, but it also allows you to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of this street food classic anytime. The combination of smokiness from the grill, creaminess from the toppings, and the zest from lime makes for an unforgettable experience. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that grill, and treat yourself to this flavorful dish—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Street Corn (Elote)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A popular Mexican street food featuring grilled corn covered in creamy sauces and bold seasonings.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred.
- In a medium bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder until smooth.
- Remove corn from the grill and brush with the creamy mixture. Sprinkle with cotija cheese and salt, then garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider adding minced garlic or smoked paprika to the creamy mixture. If cotija cheese is unavailable, feta can be a substitute.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
