This classic Mexican street food is bursting with creamy, tangy, and smoky flavors. It’s an easy and fun way to elevate corn on the cob!
Ingredients:
- 8 ears of corn, shucked (husks and silks removed)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (or adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, finely grated
Instructions:
- Prepare the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a stovetop grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat.
- Oil the Corn:
- Lightly brush the ears of corn with vegetable oil to prevent sticking and promote even charring.
- Grill the Corn:
- Place the corn on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until the kernels are lightly charred and tender. This should take 8-10 minutes.
- Prepare the Mayonnaise Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the lime juice until smooth.
- Assemble the Elotes:
- Once the corn is grilled, brush a generous layer of the mayonnaise mixture over each ear.
- Sprinkle each ear with chili powder for a smoky kick. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
- Add the Cotija Cheese:
- Roll or sprinkle the corn in the finely grated cotija cheese, ensuring an even coating.
- Serve Immediately:
- Serve warm, with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing.
Tips & Variations:
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or Tajín for extra heat.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for added brightness.
- Alternative Cheese: If cotija cheese isn’t available, use Parmesan or feta cheese as substitutes.
- Off the Cob: Slice the kernels off the cob after grilling and mix all the toppings for a street corn salad.
Q&A Section:
Q: Can I use frozen or canned corn?
A: Yes! For frozen corn, grill it until it’s charred, or use canned corn in a skillet for similar flavors.
Q: Can I make elotes ahead of time?
A: It’s best served fresh, but you can grill the corn ahead of time and reheat before adding toppings.
Q: What’s a good non-dairy substitute for mayonnaise?
A: You can use vegan mayo or a mixture of mashed avocado and lime juice for a creamy, tangy alternative.
Benefits of Elotes:
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of creamy, tangy, smoky, and spicy flavors is irresistible.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses affordable and accessible ingredients.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for barbecues, parties, or as a side dish for any meal.
- Nutrient Boost: Corn is a good source of fiber and essential vitamins like B6 and folate.
- Customizable: Adjust the spices, cheese, or toppings to fit your preferences!
This quick and easy recipe is a surefire way to bring a taste of Mexico to your table! 🌶️🌽