Elotes, or Mexican street corn, is a beloved and iconic dish that can be found all across Mexico and in Mexican-American communities. It's a simple but delicious snack that consists of corn on the cob, coated in a creamy, tangy sauce and topped with various seasonings. This traditional street food has gained popularity in recent years, and it's no wonder why – the combination of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors is irresistible. In this article, we'll be sharing a grilled elotes recipe from Serious Eats that will help you recreate this classic Mexican dish in your own home.
Main Ingredients: Mayonnaise, Sour Cream, Feta Cheese, Ancho Chile
The classic version of Mexican Street Corn is a simple yet delicious combination of grilled corn on the cob, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. The creamy mayo and tangy cheese pair perfectly with the smoky grilled corn, creating a burst of flavor with every bite. This recipe is sure to be a hit at any summer gathering.
If you prefer a healthier version of Mexican Street Corn, try grilling the corn without the mayonnaise. Instead, brush the corn with olive oil and sprinkle with chili powder and cotija cheese before grilling. This lighter option is just as tasty and perfect for those looking to cut down on calories.
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Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elotes)
Main Ingredients: Ears Of Corn, Mayonnaise, Mexican Crema, Cotija Cheese
For a more traditional take on Elote, try adding some grilled onions and peppers to your corn. The smoky flavors of the grilled vegetables complement the corn perfectly and add a little extra crunch to each bite. You can also mix in some diced jalapenos for a spicy kick.
If you're a fan of spice, this recipe is for you. Prepare your corn as usual, but instead of using chili powder, sprinkle on some Tajin seasoning. This blend of chili peppers, lime, and salt adds a tangy and spicy twist to the classic Mexican Street Corn.
For a unique twist on Elote, try adding some crumbled bacon to your corn. The salty and savory bacon pairs perfectly with the creamy mayo and tangy cotija cheese, creating a delicious combination of flavors. You can also mix in some chopped green onions for added freshness.
If you're a fan of avocado, you'll love this recipe for Elote. Simply mash up some avocado and mix it with the mayo and cotija cheese before topping your corn. The result is a creamy and flavorful version of Mexican Street Corn that will have your taste buds singing.
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Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Main Ingredients: Mayonnaise, Sour Cream, Fresh Lime Juice, Garlic, Salt
If you're looking to add some color to your corn, try making a rainbow version of Mexican Street Corn. Use different varieties of corn, such as white, yellow, and purple, and top each cob with a different ingredient. You can use red onion, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro to create a beautiful and tasty dish.
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Elotes (Grilled Mexican Street Corn)
Main Ingredients: Ears Of Corn, Olive Oil, Kosher Salt, Cilantro Leaves
For a unique and delicious twist on Elotes, try adding some pineapple to your corn. Grilling the pineapple brings out its sweetness and adds a tropical flavor to the dish. Top with some cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing and flavorful combination.
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Elote Corn (Mexican Street Corn)
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Corn, Mayonnaise, Sour Cream, Garlic
For those who prefer a smoky and spicy flavor, this recipe is a must-try. Mix together some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with the mayo and cotija cheese before topping your corn. The result is a smoky and slightly spicy version of Mexican Street Corn that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
If you're a fan of grilled corn but don't want to deal with the mess, try making Elotes in a foil packet. Simply wrap the corn in foil with some butter, chili powder, and cotija cheese before grilling. This method ensures that the corn stays moist and the flavors are infused throughout.
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Elotes (Mexican Street Corn)
Main Ingredients: Corn, Mayonnaise, Ancho Chile Powder, Cotija Cheese
If you're looking for a unique and flavorful side dish, try making Mexican Street Corn Salad. Cut the grilled corn off the cob and mix it with black beans, avocado, red onion, and a zesty lime vinaigrette. This refreshing salad is perfect for summer and a great way to switch up your usual corn on the cob.
For a party-friendly version of Mexican Street Corn, try making a dip. Simply mix together grilled corn, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and some diced jalapenos. Serve with tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
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Elotes – Mexican Street Corn
Main Ingredients: Cotija Cheese, Mayonnaise, Sour Cream, Cilantro Leaves
If you don't have access to a grill, don't worry – you can still enjoy delicious Elotes. Simply cook the corn on the stovetop and then top with the usual ingredients. You can also add some diced bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and texture.
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Elotes Mexicanos (Mexican Street Corn)
Main Ingredients: Corn, Water, Mayonnaise, Cotija, Chile Powder, Lime
If you have an air fryer, you have to try making Elotes in it. Simply brush the corn with olive oil and air fry for a few minutes before topping with the usual ingredients. This method creates a crispy and perfectly cooked corn that is sure to impress.
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy some Elotes, try making this easy version. Simply mix together mayo, lime juice, chili powder, and cotija cheese and use it as a spread for your corn. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
For a gourmet version of Mexican Street Corn, try making Elotes Preparados. This dish is topped with a variety of ingredients, such as bacon, avocado, onion, and cucumber. It's a fun and tasty way to switch up your usual corn on the cob.
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Stovetop Elotes (Mexican Street Corn)
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Sweet Corn, Mayonnaise, Sour Cream
For a different take on the classic Mexican Street Corn, try making a salad. Grilled corn is mixed with black beans, tomatoes, avocado, and a zesty lime dressing for a refreshing and flavorful dish. You can also add some diced grilled chicken for a complete meal.
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Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn (Elotes)
Main Ingredients: Corn, Butter, Kosher Salt, Black Pepper, Mexican Cream
If you love dips, you have to try this creamy and delicious Mexican Street Corn Dip. Made with cream cheese, mayo, sour cream, and plenty of cheese, this dip is perfect for any party or gathering. Serve with tortilla chips or use it as a topping for tacos.
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Easy Elotes aka Mexican Street Corn
Main Ingredients: Corn, Lime, Cotija Cheese, Mayonnaise, Sour Cream
If you're looking to add some extra protein to your Elotes, try topping your corn with some grilled shrimp. The combination of the smoky corn and juicy shrimp is a match made in heaven. You can also mix in some diced pineapple for a tropical twist.
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Elotes Preparados (Mexican Street Corn)
Main Ingredients: Corn On The Cob, Salted Butter, Mayonnaise, Cotija
For a unique and tasty twist on Elotes, try adding some crumbled feta cheese on top. The tangy and salty cheese pairs perfectly with the smoky and creamy corn, creating a flavor explosion in your mouth. You can also sprinkle on some chopped cilantro for added freshness.
Ingredients You'll Need
The Corn
The star of this dish is, of course, the corn. To make authentic elotes, you'll want to use fresh, sweet corn that's in season. Look for ears of corn that have bright green husks and plump, juicy kernels. Avoid any that have dry or discolored husks or kernels that are shriveled or missing. You'll also need wooden skewers to grill the corn.
The Sauce
The sauce is the key to achieving the perfect elotes. You'll need mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and garlic to make the base of the sauce. Some variations also call for sour cream or crema for added creaminess. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking – some like it spicier, while others prefer a milder flavor.
The Toppings
The toppings are where you can get creative and add your own spin on this classic dish. The most traditional topping is crumbled cotija cheese, a salty and crumbly cheese that adds a nice contrast to the creamy sauce. You can also add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick, or some chopped cilantro for freshness. Other popular toppings include tajin (a Mexican seasoning blend) and hot sauce for even more heat.
How to Make Elotes
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to put them together to make some delicious elotes. Start by grilling the corn on a hot grill, turning occasionally until it's slightly charred and cooked through. While the corn is grilling, mix together the sauce ingredients in a bowl. Once the corn is done, remove it from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes before handling.
Using a skewer, insert it into the bottom of the corn cob and use it as a handle to hold the corn upright. Use a brush to generously coat the corn with the sauce, making sure to get in between all the kernels. Once the corn is fully coated, sprinkle on your desired toppings.
In Conclusion
Elotes are a delicious and fun way to enjoy corn on the cob. This grilled Mexican street corn recipe from Serious Eats is a fantastic way to recreate this classic street food at home. With its creamy and tangy sauce, topped with various seasonings, it's a dish that's sure to be a hit at your next barbecue or gathering. So why not give it a try and experience the flavors of Mexico in your own backyard?
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