Street Corn
Street Corn: A Flavorful Summer Delight
Indulging in street corn or "elote" is like taking a tasty trip to the streets of Mexico, where the sweet aroma of grilled corn wafts through the air. This popular dish is not only a celebration of flavor but also a crowd-pleaser at summer barbecues, picnics, or even as a snack. With a combination of creamy mayonnaise, tangy lime, zesty chili powder, and the unexpected crunch of cotija cheese, this recipe is easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into the details of creating this beautiful and delicious dish!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 200
- Protein: 6 grams
- Carbohydrates: 24 grams
- Fat: 10 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 250 mg
Why Make This Street Corn
Street corn is the perfect dish for any warm-weather gathering. The combination of sweet, crunchy corn and rich toppings creates a satisfying side that pairs well with grilled meats, salads, or can stand alone as a delicious snack. Not only is it simple to make, but it also brings a vibrant splash of flavor to your plate. Plus, this recipe is versatile—you can adjust the spice level and toppings according to your preference!
How to Make Street Corn
Creating street corn at home is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps to enjoy this delicious treat fresh off the grill.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Directions:
Step 1: Preheating
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your corn gets that beautiful char you’re looking for.
Step 2: Grilling
Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until charred and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning; the goal is to get those enticing grill marks and a delicious smoky flavor.
Step 3: Mixing
In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and salt. This creamy mixture will coat the corn in flavor, making it rich and satisfying.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the grill. Brush the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the corn for a luscious coating. Sprinkle the cotija cheese on top and finish with a garnish of chopped cilantro. Serve immediately for the best taste!
How to Serve Street Corn
Street corn is best enjoyed fresh off the grill, while it’s still warm and flavorful. Serve it on a platter, allowing everyone to grab their ear of corn. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or can simply be a delightful snack on its own. Consider adding extra lime wedges for guests who love an extra burst of citrus!
How to Store Street Corn
If you have leftover street corn, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it on a grill or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. Just remember, the flavors are freshest when enjoyed right after preparation!
Expert Tips for Perfect Street Corn
- Choose Fresh Corn: Opt for ears of corn that are firm with bright green husks. Fresh corn produces the best flavor and sweetness.
- Enhance with Spice: If you like more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños to the mayonnaise mixture.
- Cotija Cheese Alternatives: If cotija cheese isn’t available, crumbled feta or grated Parmesan can be a suitable substitute.
- Cooking on a Stovetop: You can make street corn indoors by broiling it in the oven or using a stovetop grill pan if a grill isn’t available.
- Fresh Cilantro: For added flavor, feel free to mix in some lime zest into the mayonnaise or use fresh basil instead of cilantro for a unique twist.
Delicious Variations
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: Mix grilled corn kernels with diced red onion, avocado, and a similar creamy mixture to create a fresh salad version.
- Spicy Agave Street Corn: Drizzle honey or agave syrup over the corn before adding toppings for a sweet-and-spicy flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the mayonnaise for a vegan alternative or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make street corn ahead of time?
While street corn is best served immediately, you can prepare the topping mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Grill the corn fresh when ready to serve for optimal taste. -
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can cook the corn in the oven by wrapping it in foil and roasting it at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or using a grill pan on the stovetop. -
Is it okay to use frozen corn?
Fresh corn is preferred for the best flavor and texture, but you can use frozen corn. Just thaw it first and choose to either grill or sauté it until heated through. -
Can I use different types of cheese?
Definitely! While cotija cheese is traditional, feel free to use feta or even shredded cheddar for a different flavor. -
How can I make street corn spicier?
To increase the heat, add more chili powder or include hot sauce in the mayonnaise mixture. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top for an extra kick!
Conclusion
With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, this street corn recipe is sure to become a favorite at your gatherings. Simple yet incredibly satisfying, it captures the essence of summer in every bite. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this street food classic in your own backyard. Don’t hesitate to try it out—the deliciousness speaks for itself!
Print
Street Corn
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful summer delight featuring grilled corn topped with creamy mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and zesty chili powder.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until charred and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and salt.
- Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the grill. Brush the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the corn.
- Sprinkle the cotija cheese on top and finish with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately.
Notes
Serve with extra lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
