Mexican street corn, known as “Elote,” is a vibrant and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Mexican street food culture. This beloved dish features grilled corn on the cob coated in a creamy and tangy mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder. Whether enjoyed as a street snack or a side dish at home, Mexican street corn is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Mexico.
Mexican Street Corn Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowls
- 1 Cast Iron Skillet
- 1 Lemon Squeezer
Ingredients
- 5 ears sweet corn
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese crumbled
- 3 tablespoons cilantro chopped
- ½-1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder or ancho see notes
- Limes quartered
Instructions
- Set a grill’s temperature to medium-high, or between 450 and 475 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Meanwhile, whisk together mayonnaise, Mexican crema, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, cayenne pepper, and chili powder in a mixing bowl. To taste, lightly season with salt and pepper. Put aside.
- After the grill has heated up, arrange the corn on it, allowing room between each one. Grill for approximately nine minutes, flipping every three minutes, or until all sides are roasted.
- One corn cob at a time, generously spray both sides with the mayonnaise mixture using a basting brush, and then top with cotija and chile powder.
- Add some cilantro and/or Mexican spicy sauce to finish. Repeat with the remaining corn after transferring to a baking sheet or serving plate.
Notes
- If you like less spice, you can use smoked paprika in place of the chipotle chili powder.
- Prepare extra corn as needed to double, treble, or quadruple this recipe quickly.
- For up to three days, store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 172kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 19g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Sodium | 233mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
| Calcium | 74mg |
| Vitamin A | 344IU |
| Potassium | 264mg |
What’s the Difference Between Elote and Street Corn?
Mexican street corn, or Elote (Eh-LOH-Teh), has distinct flavors in each bite, including salt, sweetness, crunch, and creaminess. Especially fresh off the grill during the summer, when fresh corn is in season and widely available at markets, it hits all the proper flavor notes.
How Do You Store Leftover Elote?
To store leftover elite, first, allow the corn to cool completely. Then, remove any toppings such as cheese or chili powder. Wrap each cob tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out and absorbing other odors in the refrigerator. Stored this way, leftover elote can be kept for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat the corn in the microwave or on the grill, and reapply the toppings for a fresh and delicious treat.