Mexican Street Corn

Mexican Street Corn, or Elote, is a beloved street food bursting with bold flavors and vibrant textures. The combination of smoky grilled corn, rich and creamy sauce, and the salty tang of Cotija cheese creates an irresistible dish. A sprinkle of chili powder adds just the right amount of heat, while fresh lime juice brings a refreshing balance to the flavors. Perfect for backyard barbecues, summer cookouts, or as a side dish for any Mexican-inspired meal, Elote is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a quick snack or serving it at a festive gathering, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with authentic flavors that transport you straight to the streets of Mexico.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of corn, husked

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• Lime wedges, for serving

Directions:

1. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat.

2. Place the husked corn directly on the grill, turning every 2-3 minutes until slightly charred on all sides (about 10 minutes total).

3. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, lime juice, salt, and hot sauce (if using).

4. Once the corn is grilled, use a brush or spoon to spread the creamy mixture evenly over each ear of corn.

5. Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese generously over the coated corn.

6. Dust with chili powder and smoked paprika.

7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes

Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Introduction

Few street foods are as iconic and delicious as Mexican Street Corn, also known as Elote. This mouthwatering dish features grilled corn slathered with a creamy sauce, sprinkled with crumbled Cotija cheese, and dusted with chili powder for an irresistible kick. A squeeze of fresh lime juice ties all the flavors together, making every bite a perfect balance of smoky, creamy, tangy, and spicy goodness. Elote is a staple of Mexican street food culture, sold by vendors at festivals, markets, and roadside stalls across Mexico. Over time, its popularity has spread worldwide, becoming a favorite side dish at barbecues, family gatherings, and summer cookouts. But what makes Elote so special? Let’s dive into its history, benefits, and why this recipe is the best way to enjoy this authentic Mexican classic.

A Brief History of Elote

The word Elote comes from the Nahuatl word “elotitutl”, which means “tender cob” or “young corn.” Corn has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for thousands of years, dating back to the ancient civilizations of the Aztecs and Mayans. They cultivated and revered maize, using it in everything from tortillas to tamales. Street vendors began selling Elote as a quick and satisfying snack, grilling the corn to bring out its natural sweetness and topping it with flavorful ingredients. Over time, different regions of Mexico added their own twists, incorporating ingredients like mayonnaise, crema, cheese, and chili powder to enhance its taste. Today, Elote is a beloved street food that represents the heart and soul of Mexican culinary tradition.

Why This Recipe Is the Best

While there are many variations of Elote, this authentic recipe stands out for several reasons:

• Perfect Flavor Balance – The combination of smoky grilled corn, creamy sauce, salty Cotija cheese, and spicy chili powder creates a perfect harmony of flavors.
• Authentic Ingredients – Using traditional ingredients like Cotija cheese, Mexican crema, and fresh lime juice ensures an authentic Mexican experience.
• Quick and Easy to Make – This recipe requires only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile – You can serve Elote as a side dish, snack, or even a main course with additional toppings like avocado, bacon, or hot sauce.
• Loved by Everyone – Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a unique party appetizer, Elote is always a crowd-pleaser.

Health Benefits of Elote

Despite being indulgent, Elote also offers several health benefits:

• Rich in Fiber – Corn is a great source of dietary fiber, which supports digestion and gut health.
• Good Source of Protein – Cotija cheese and Mexican crema provide essential proteins for muscle repair and overall health.
• Packed with Antioxidants – The chili powder and lime juice in Elote contain antioxidants that help fight inflammation and boost the immune system.
• Provides Energy – Corn is high in healthy carbohydrates, making Elote a great energy-boosting snack.
• Bone-Strengthening Nutrients – Cotija cheese is rich in calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth.

While Elote is a savory treat, it can be made healthier by using light mayonnaise, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or reducing the cheese amount.

How to Serve and Enjoy Elote

Elote is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

• As a Side Dish – Pairs perfectly with tacos, grilled meats, or Mexican rice.
• In a Taco – Cut the corn off the cob and use it as a filling for tacos or burritos.
• As a Salad – Turn it into Elote Salad by cutting the kernels off the cob and mixing them with black beans, avocado, and diced tomatoes.
• On Toast – Spread Elote mixture on toast for a unique, Mexican-inspired snack.
• With Burgers & BBQ – Serve it alongside grilled meats, burgers, or barbecued ribs.

However you serve it, Elote brings warmth, spice, and comfort to any meal.

Tips for Making the Perfect Elote

To achieve restaurant-quality Mexican Street Corn at home, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Corn – The fresher the corn, the sweeter and juicier the final dish will be.
• Grill for the Best Flavor – Grilling enhances the natural sweetness of the corn and adds a delicious smoky taste.
• Use Cotija Cheese – If you can’t find Cotija, a good alternative is feta cheese or Parmesan.
• Don’t Skip the Lime – Fresh lime juice balances the creamy and spicy flavors, making each bite even better.
• Adjust the Spice Level – For a milder version, use less chili powder, or for extra heat, add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.

Elote vs. Esquites: What’s the Difference?

While Elote (Mexican Street Corn) is served on the cob, its equally delicious cousin, Esquites, is served in a cup.

• Elote = Grilled whole corn on the cob, coated in sauce and cheese.
• Esquites = Corn kernels removed from the cob and mixed with sauce, cheese, and spices in a bowl or cup, eaten with a spoon.

Both dishes share the same bold, smoky flavors, but Esquites are great for on-the-go eating!

Fun Variations of Elote

Want to experiment with different flavors? Try these creative variations of Elote:

• Garlic Butter Elote – Mix melted butter with minced garlic and brush it over the grilled corn before adding toppings.
• Cheddar Jalapeño Elote – Add shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños for a spicy, cheesy twist.
• Avocado Elote – Blend avocado into the sauce for an extra creamy and rich flavor.
• Bacon-Wrapped Elote – Wrap each corn cob with crispy bacon for an indulgent treat.
• Vegan Elote – Swap mayo for vegan mayo and Cotija cheese for nutritional yeast or vegan feta.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn (Elote) is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. From its rich history and bold flavors to its health benefits and easy preparation, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with a kick. Whether you’re enjoying it at a summer BBQ, family gathering, or as a snack, Elote is guaranteed to bring people together and leave them craving more. So fire up the grill and bring the flavors of Mexico to your kitchen with this easy, authentic recipe!