Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – The Authentic Taste of Mexico

Mexican Street Corn, or Elote, is a popular street snack in Mexico that offers the perfect combination of sweet corn, creamy mayonnaise, spicy cheese, and a hint of lime. Often served on skewers, this dish is both a simple snack and a delicious side dish. If you want to recreate this flavorful experience at home, this easy recipe will help you do just that. The combination of smoky grilled flavor and creamy toppings will surely delight you!

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
For 4 servings, you will need:

• 4 corn on the cob (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream or crème fraîche
• 1 tsp chili powder (or more, to taste)
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked for extra flavor)
• 1-2 tbsp fresh lime juice (to taste)
• 1/2 cup Cotija cheese or Feta (crumbled)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1-2 limes (cut into wedges, for serving)
• Optional: 1-2 tsp Tajín (Mexican seasoning, for extra flavor)

Preparation: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Corn
   If you’re using fresh corn, remove the husks and silk from the cob. If you’re using frozen corn on the cob, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry with a kitchen towel.
2. Grill or Cook the Corn
   The traditional way to prepare Elote is on the grill. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn on the grill, turning occasionally, until it’s charred and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes). If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the corn in a hot, dry skillet or on the stovetop.
3. Prepare the Toppings
   While the corn is cooking, mix the mayonnaise and sour cream (or crème fraîche) in a small bowl. Add the chili powder, smoked paprika, and lime juice, and stir until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
4. Assemble the Elote
   Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the grill and brush it generously with the mayonnaise mixture. Sprinkle the crumbled Cotija cheese and chopped cilantro over the corn, and season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, you can also sprinkle a bit of Tajín on top.
5. Serve
   Serve the Elote with lime wedges on the side, and enjoy immediately while it’s still warm!

Enjoy your homemade Mexican Street Corn (Elote)! This dish is perfect for summer barbecues, taco nights, or as a tasty side for any Mexican meal.