Mexican Street Corn

Mexican Street Corn is a delightful treat that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico right to your backyard. This delicious dish is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with something unique and tasty. The combination of grilled corn, creamy spread, and tangy cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile that makes this a must-try recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this delicious Mexican Street Corn in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The mix of creamy, tangy, and smoky flavors elevates ordinary corn on the cob into something extraordinary.
• Versatile Serving: Perfect as a side dish for any meal or as a snack at parties, this recipe fits various occasions.
• Customizable Toppings: You can easily adjust the toppings to suit your taste preferences or spice levels.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from fresh corn and garnished with cilantro, this dish offers a healthy twist on comfort food.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Mexican Street Corn efficiently, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grilling skewers
• Grill
• Mixing bowls
• Basting brush
• Platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Grilling skewers: These help hold the corn securely while grilling and make it easier to turn.
• Grill: The key tool for achieving that delicious charred flavor on the corn.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining your creamy spread and cheesy topping ingredients effortlessly.

Ingredients

Mexican Street Corn is grilled corn on the cob smothered with a creamy spread and then sprinkled with a Mexican cheese topping. This is the best street corn recipe!

For the Corn

• 5 ears fresh corn, husked

For the Spread

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream, or Greek yogurt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
• Juice from one lime

For the Topping

• 1/4 cup grated Cotija cheese, or Parmesan, Feta, or Queso Fresco
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, or chili powder if you want heat
• Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Mexican Street Corn

Step 1: Prepare Your Skewers

Pierce a skewer halfway into the bottom of each corn cob. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium heat (between 350-450 degrees F) to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

Place the corn directly over the heat. Cover and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, turning often until the kernels are beautifully spotted brown.

Step 4: Prepare Spread and Topping

While the corn grills, combine all spread ingredients in one bowl. In another bowl, mix together all topping ingredients. Set both aside until ready to use.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Carefully remove each corn cob from the grill and transfer them to a large platter. Smear each ear generously with the creamy spread followed by an even sprinkle of cheese topping. Serve immediately for maximum flavor!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn

Serving Mexican Street Corn is all about bringing out its vibrant flavors and making it a delightful experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

Pair with Fresh Salsas

• Pico de Gallo: A fresh mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice complements the creamy corn.
• Mango Salsa: The sweetness of mango adds a tropical twist that balances the savory taste of the street corn.

Add a Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken pairs well with the richness of Mexican Street Corn for a complete meal.
• Shrimp Tacos: These light and zesty tacos make a perfect accompaniment, enhancing your street corn experience.

Serve as an Appetizer

• Corn Fritters: Crispy corn fritters can be served alongside your street corn for extra crunch.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds an indulgent layer that works beautifully with the flavors of the corn.

Garnish Creatively

• Lime Wedges: Fresh lime wedges can enhance the dish’s flavors and offer a refreshing burst.
• Chili Powder: A sprinkle of chili powder not only adds color but also gives an extra kick to the street corn.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn

To achieve the best results with your Mexican Street Corn, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your dish and ensure maximum flavor.

• Choose Fresh Corn: Fresh, in-season corn will yield the sweetest and most tender kernels.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensuring your grill is at medium heat allows for even cooking and perfect charring without burning.
• Turn Often: Rotate the corn frequently while grilling to achieve an even char on all sides.
• Customize Your Spread: Feel free to adjust the mayonnaise or sour cream amounts based on your taste preferences for creaminess.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like Feta or Queso Fresco for diverse flavor profiles.
• Add Spice Wisely: Adjust the smoked paprika or chili powder according to your heat tolerance for an enjoyable experience.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn

Completing your meal with side dishes enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent options that pair wonderfully with Mexican Street Corn.

1. Black Bean Salad: A hearty salad made with black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing adds protein and freshness.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with spices complements the rich flavors of street corn nicely.
3. Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado mixed with tomatoes and onions offers a refreshing contrast to the street corn’s bold flavors.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa make for an easy side that everyone loves.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a healthy touch and beautiful colors to your plate.
6. Quesadillas: Cheese-filled quesadillas serve as a filling side that pairs perfectly with Mexican cuisine’s bold tastes.
7. Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice is flavored with fresh cilantro and lime juice for a zesty addition to your meal.
8. Elote-Inspired Pasta Salad: A pasta salad inspired by elote brings together similar flavors in a fun new way.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the soaking step: If you’re using wooden skewers, always soak them for 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Not preheating the grill: Failing to preheat your grill can result in uneven cooking. Make sure it reaches medium heat before placing the corn on it.
• Overcooking the corn: Cooking corn for too long can make it tough. Aim for 10 to 15 minutes, turning often, until you see brown spots.
• Neglecting to mix spreads properly: Mixing mayonnaise and sour cream thoroughly ensures an even distribution of flavor. Take a moment to blend them well before applying.
• Forgetting garnish options: Don’t skip the cilantro! It adds a fresh touch. Consider other toppings like chili powder or lime zest for extra flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Mexican Street Corn in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn

• Wrap each ear of corn tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and wrap corn in foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place corn in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water. Cover and heat for about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Street Corn?

Mexican Street Corn, also known as Elote, is grilled corn on the cob topped with creamy sauces and cheese, offering a delicious blend of flavors.

How do I make Mexican Street Corn spicy?

To add spice, use chili powder instead of smoked paprika or sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top after serving.

Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

While fresh corn is recommended for the best flavor, you can use frozen corn if fresh is not available. Just ensure it’s cooked properly.

What cheese can I substitute for Cotija?

You can use Parmesan, Feta, or Queso Fresco as alternatives if Cotija cheese is unavailable.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn is a delightful treat that brings vibrant flavors to your table. Its versatility allows you to customize toppings and spices according to your preference. Whether served at a summer barbecue or as a side dish with dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your guests! Give it a try and enjoy the rich taste of Mexico right at home.