Elote (Mexican Street Corn)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that takes grilled corn to the next level. Coated in creamy mayonnaise, tangy lime, spicy chili powder, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese, this savory treat is a perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and spicy. Whether served as a snack, side dish, or party food, elote brings the taste of Mexico right to your plate.

Ingredients

• Corn on the cob
• Mayonnaise
• Cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
• Lime
• Chili powder
• Salt
• Fresh cilantro (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Husk the corn and remove the silk.
3. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and tender.
4. While the corn is grilling, prepare the toppings: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, a pinch of salt, and the juice of one lime.
5. Once the corn is grilled, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
6. Brush the grilled corn with the mayonnaise mixture.
7. Sprinkle generously with cotija cheese and chili powder.
8. Squeeze additional lime juice over the top and garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.

• Preparation time: 5 minutes
• Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
• Total time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

• For extra heat, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or drizzle with hot sauce.
• Substitute the mayonnaise for sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• For a smoky flavor, sprinkle some smoked paprika on top.
• Add a drizzle of honey for a sweet and spicy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Elote is best served fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm on the grill or in the oven.

FAQs

Can I make elote without a grill?
Yes, you can roast the corn in the oven or cook it on a stovetop grill pan.

What is cotija cheese?
Cotija cheese is a crumbly, salty Mexican cheese that’s perfect for topping elote. If you can’t find it, feta cheese works as a substitute.

Can I make the mayo mixture ahead of time?
Yes, the mayo mixture can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use frozen corn?
Fresh corn is ideal, but if frozen corn is your only option, it can work—just ensure it’s grilled or charred thoroughly.

Conclusion

Elote is a beloved Mexican street food that brings bold flavors and a touch of spice to any gathering. It’s easy to make and versatile enough to enjoy as a snack, side dish, or even a main. With its combination of creamy, cheesy, and zesty ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite!

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