Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a vibrant and incredibly flavorful dish that's taken the world by storm. Its simple ingredients—grilled corn on the cob, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime—combine to create a surprisingly complex and addictive taste sensation. The beauty of elote lies in its versatility; you can easily adjust the spices and toppings to suit your personal preferences, making it a fun and customizable snack or side dish. Imagine the smoky char of the grilled corn, the creamy coolness of the mayonnaise, and the satisfying crunch of the cotija cheese all dancing on your taste buds.
This irresistible combination of textures and flavors is easier to achieve than you might think. Ready to transform simple corn on the cob into a culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step process of making the perfect quick and easy Mexican street corn, guaranteed to impress your friends and family.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Baking sheet or pan
Ingredients
- Fresh corn
- Water
- Melted butter
- Duke's mayonnaise
- Cotija cheese
- Cilantro
- Tajin seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Corn
- Peel the fresh corn, removing the stringy parts.
- Boil the corn in hot water for about five minutes.
- Remove the corn from the water and place it on a baking sheet or pan.
Step 2. Add the Creamy Base
- Spread melted butter over the corn.
- Spread Duke's mayonnaise over the corn.
Step 3. Add the Cheese and Cilantro
- Sprinkle cotija cheese and cilantro over the corn.
Step 4. Finish with Tajin
- Sprinkle Tajin seasoning on top.
Read more: Grilled Mexican Octopus Recipe: A Sakora Gastronomy Delight
Tips
- Use gloves or a brush to spread the mayonnaise evenly.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of mayonnaise.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 25-35g
- Protein: 5-7g
FAQs
1. Can I make Elote without grilling the corn?
Yes! You can boil or microwave the corn until tender. Just make sure it's cooked through before adding the toppings.
2. What kind of cheese is Cotija?
Cotija is a firm, salty Mexican cheese. If you can't find it, you can substitute with Parmesan or another firm, salty cheese.
3. Can I prepare the Elote ahead of time?
It's best to assemble and serve Elote immediately for the best texture and flavor. However, you can prepare the toppings ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator.
So there you have it – a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful recipe for Mexican street corn. This simple dish is perfect for barbecues, parties, or a weeknight treat. Enjoy the vibrant tastes and textures of authentic elote, and don't be afraid to experiment with your favorite toppings!