Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with our authentic Mexican street corn recipe, known as “Elote.” This delightful dish captures the essence of street food culture, combining smoky grilled corn with creamy, tangy toppings and zesty spices. Whether served as a side dish or a star attraction at your next gathering, this recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the bustling streets of Mexico.
Grilling the Corn: To begin, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, creating the perfect canvas for charring the corn to perfection. As the flames dance, prepare the ears of corn by removing their husks, unveiling the golden kernels that await a flavorful transformation.
Crafting the Flavorful Dressing: In a bowl, concoct a tantalizing dressing by blending together mayonnaise, a touch of sour cream or Mexican crema, minced garlic, and a medley of spices including chili powder and smoked paprika. This harmonious blend of creamy and savory elements sets the stage for a symphony of flavors that will elevate your corn to new heights.
Grilling and Garnishing: Place the corn directly on the grill, allowing it to sizzle and char to a golden hue, infusing each kernel with smoky goodness. Rotate the ears occasionally, ensuring an even char that adds depth to the flavor profile.
Once the corn achieves a charred perfection, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. Then, with precision and artistry, coat each ear generously with the creamy dressing, ensuring every kernel is adorned with its savory embrace.
Sprinkle a generous portion of crumbled cotija cheese atop the dressed corn, its salty richness enhancing the creamy texture and adding a satisfying crunch. To finish, garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro, infusing the dish with a burst of vibrant color and herbaceous freshness.
Presentation and Serving: Serve your masterpiece of Mexican street corn on a platter, accompanied by wedges of lime for a final flourish. The citrusy brightness of the lime adds a refreshing contrast, elevating the flavors and inviting guests to customize their culinary journey.
Conclusion: With each bite of our authentic Mexican street corn, savor the essence of Mexico’s culinary heritage, where bold flavors and vibrant ingredients unite to create a symphony of taste sensations. Whether enjoyed at a bustling street market or in the comfort of your own home, this dish embodies the spirit of celebration and culinary adventure. So gather your loved ones, ignite the grill, and embark on a flavorful journey that celebrates the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine.
MEXICAN STREET CORN
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, husks removed
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese can be substituted)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the ears of corn directly on the grill. Cook, turning occasionally, until the corn is lightly charred on all sides, about 10-12 minutes.
- While the corn is grilling, in a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream or Mexican crema, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and half of the crumbled cotija cheese. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the corn is cooked and lightly charred, remove it from the grill and let it cool for a couple of minutes.
- Using a brush or spoon, generously coat each ear of corn with the mayonnaise and sour cream mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumbled cotija cheese over the corn, then garnish with chopped cilantro.
- Serve the Mexican street corn immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
