Mexican Street Corn, or Elote, is a beloved classic known for its bold flavors and creamy, cheesy goodness. Grilled to perfection, the corn takes on a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the rich mayo-sour cream mixture, crumbly cotija cheese, and a touch of heat from the chili powder. A squeeze of fresh lime ties it all together, making each bite a delicious balance of spice, tang, and creaminess. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just craving a flavorful side dish, this recipe is easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Serve it alongside tacos, grilled meats, or enjoy it on its own no matter how you eat it, this elote will bring the authentic taste of Mexican street food straight to your table!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
Directions:
- Preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the husked corn directly on the grill grates. Cook, turning occasionally, until charred in spots and tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice until smooth.
- Remove the corn from the grill and immediately brush with the mayo-sour cream mixture.
- Sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese over the corn, ensuring even coverage.
- Dust each ear with chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
- Enjoy warm, with a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Elote: Mexican Street Corn
Elote, a classic Mexican street food, is a mouthwatering dish that combines grilled corn with a variety of flavorful toppings. With its smoky, creamy, and slightly spicy flavor, this simple yet delicious recipe has earned its place as a beloved snack at street vendors, BBQs, and family gatherings. Whether you’re familiar with the dish or new to Mexican cuisine, elote offers a satisfying blend of flavors that will make you crave more.
The History of Elote: A Mexican Tradition
Elote has a long and storied history that dates back centuries. The origin of corn, or “maize,” is deeply intertwined with Mexican culture, where it has been cultivated since ancient times. Civilizations such as the Aztecs and Mayans relied heavily on maize as a primary food source, and it remains a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine today.
Elote, specifically, is a street food that emerged as a popular snack in Mexico during the 20th century. Street vendors known as “eloteros” would grill corn over an open flame and cover it in a combination of mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime. The recipe was simple yet irresistible, and its popularity spread across Mexico. Over the years, elote has become a ubiquitous dish at fairs, markets, and even modern-day street food festivals.
Why Elote is So Special
What sets elote apart from other corn-on-the-cob recipes is its irresistible combination of flavors and textures. The corn itself is first grilled over an open flame, giving it a deep, smoky flavor that perfectly complements the creamy coating of mayonnaise and sour cream. Cotija cheese, a crumbly and salty Mexican cheese, is generously sprinkled on top, creating a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the sauce.
The dish is finished with a sprinkle of chili powder, smoked paprika, and fresh lime juice, adding an irresistible kick and tang. Fresh cilantro can be added as a garnish, providing a burst of freshness to balance out the richness. Each bite is a perfect blend of savory, tangy, spicy, and creamy, making elote a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as comforting as it is bold.
How to Enjoy Elote: Serving Suggestions
Elote is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. It is traditionally served as a street food snack in Mexico, often as a quick bite while walking around markets or enjoying a festival. However, its appeal extends far beyond street corners, making it a perfect addition to any meal or gathering.
As a Side Dish for Grilled Meat
Elote pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it the perfect companion for BBQs and cookouts. Whether you’re serving burgers, steaks, chicken, or sausages, a plate of elote will elevate the meal with its complex flavors. The richness of the mayo and cheese topping contrasts perfectly with the smokiness of grilled meat, and the zesty lime and chili powder offer a refreshing balance.
At a Mexican-Themed Party
For those hosting a Mexican-themed dinner or a fiesta, elote is a must-have dish. It can be served alongside tacos, enchiladas, or quesadillas for a well-rounded, flavorful meal. Consider offering different variations of elote, such as spicier versions with hot sauce or sweeter versions with honey for a unique twist.
Perfect for Summer Cookouts
As summer approaches, elote becomes an essential addition to any backyard BBQ. The ease of preparation and the fact that it can be grilled alongside other meats makes it an ideal choice for grilling season. Add it to your grilling menu, and your guests will appreciate the smoky, creamy delight that accompanies the savory main dishes.
Variations of Elote: Putting Your Own Twist
While traditional elote is delicious on its own, there are countless ways to customize the recipe to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few variations that you can try:
Spicy Elote
For those who love heat, try adding extra chili powder or cayenne pepper to your elote. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the top for an extra spicy kick. If you want a truly fiery experience, top the corn with chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers for an authentic Mexican street-food touch.
Vegan Elote
For those following a vegan diet, it’s easy to swap out the mayo, sour cream, and cotija cheese for plant-based alternatives. Use a vegan mayo and sour cream, and opt for dairy-free cheese or simply skip the cheese altogether. The other ingredients, such as lime and chili powder, remain the same and will provide all the bold flavors you love.
Sweet Elote
While the classic elote is savory and spicy, there’s a sweet variation that’s equally delicious. Drizzle the corn with a touch of honey or agave syrup after grilling, and sprinkle with cinnamon for a sweet and smoky version of elote that’s perfect for dessert or a unique side dish.
Elote in a Cup
If you’re not a fan of eating corn on the cob, try the “Elote en Vaso” (elote in a cup) version. Instead of serving the corn on the cob, scrape the kernels off and serve them in a cup with all the same toppings. This version is often served at festivals and is a great option for parties or gatherings.
Elote’s Popularity Around the World
While elote is deeply rooted in Mexican culture, its popularity has spread far beyond the borders of Mexico. As Mexican cuisine has gained international recognition, street food staples like elote have found their way onto menus and food trucks around the world.
In the United States, for example, elote has become a summer favorite at BBQs, food festivals, and even at some high-end restaurants offering creative takes on Mexican street food. Its rising popularity can be attributed to the growing love for bold, flavorful, and authentic dishes that represent the vibrant and diverse food cultures of Latin America.
The Benefits of Elote
Not only is elote delicious, but it also has some health benefits. Corn is a great source of fiber, which helps promote digestion and supports gut health. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, folate, and magnesium. The lime and cilantro in elote provide antioxidants and vitamins, and the healthy fats in the mayo and sour cream add richness and a sense of satisfaction.
Conclusion:
Elote is more than just a snack it’s a celebration of the flavors and ingredients that define Mexican cuisine. With its bold combination of smoky, creamy, spicy, and tangy elements, it’s a dish that is sure to delight the senses. Whether you’re grilling at home, hosting a summer BBQ, or simply craving something different, elote is a must-try. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a taste of authentic Mexican street food today!