Few street foods capture the heart and soul of Mexican cuisine quite like esquites. This warm, comforting corn salad can be found on busy street corners, at night markets, and in family kitchens throughout Mexico. The combination of its creamy, tangy, spicy, and smoky flavors creates an irresistible side dish or snack that’s as satisfying as it is versatile.
Made with roasted corn kernels and dressed with ingredients like lime, mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder, esquites are the off-the-cob counterpart to elote. Whether enjoyed at a street vendor’s cart or made at home, esquites deliver a bold taste of tradition with every bite.
What are esquites?
Esquites, a classic Mexican street food, are made from cooked corn kernels that are typically sautéed or grilled and tossed with flavorful ingredients. They are served warm in a cup or bowl and are often topped with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, cilantro, and chili powder.
Each region of Mexico puts its own twist on the dish. Some add epazote for a herbal note, while others increase the spice level with chopped jalapeños or Tajín. No matter the variation, the essence remains the same: comforting, savory, and bursting with flavor. Unlike elote, which is corn served on the cob, esquites are easier to eat and ideal for sharing.
Traditional ingredients in an esquites recipe
A traditional esquites recipe starts with fresh or frozen corn that is ideally charred or grilled to bring out its sweet, smoky flavor. Diced red peppers and onions add depth, and minced garlic provides an aromatic base. Lime juice cuts through the richness and balances the flavors with its bright acidity.
Mayonnaise provides the signature creamy texture, binding the ingredients together and complementing the saltiness of cotija cheese. Finally, a handful of chopped cilantro adds freshness, and chili powder or Tajín spice delivers a satisfying kick. Some recipes include butter or broth for an extra layer of indulgence.
Together, these ingredients create a multidimensional dish that’s crunchy, creamy, spicy, and tangy—all in one bite.
Step-by-Step esquites recipe
Do you want to bring the flavor of a Mexican street corner into your kitchen? Follow this simple, delicious recipe for esquites:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of corn kernels (fresh, grilled, or frozen)
- ½ red bell pepper, finely chopped
- ½ small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon tajín or chili powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Char the corn. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the corn and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly charred. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
- Add aromatics: Stir in the chopped red pepper, onion, and garlic. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
- Mix the flavors: Remove the skillet from the heat. While it is still warm, stir in the mayonnaise, lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the corn is evenly coated.
- Top it off by spooning the esquites into serving cups or bowls. Sprinkle generously with cotija cheese and a dusting of Tajín or chili powder.
Optional tip: If you like it spicier, add a few drops of hot sauce or diced jalapeños. Serve warm and enjoy.
Esquites vs. elote: What’s the difference?
Although esquites and elote have similar ingredients, they are presented and experienced differently. Elote is corn on the cob slathered in toppings and typically eaten with your hands. Esquites, on the other hand, are served in cups, making them more portable and convenient, especially for fans of street food on the go.
The flavor profile remains largely the same, but the textures of esquites are slightly different, thanks to the combination of kernels and creamy dressing in every spoonful. Esquites also offer more flexibility in how you season and mix your ingredients.
A flavorful stop: Oh! Mexico
If you’re looking for authentic esquites made with care and tradition, Oh! Mexico is a great place to try this beloved dish. Their version features char-grilled corn, red peppers, onions, garlic, and cilantro, all tossed in mayonnaise and topped with cotija cheese and Tajín seasoning.
The flavors are perfectly balanced, staying true to the essence of Mexican street food. Whether you’re new to esquites or a longtime fan, Oh! Mexico offers a classic, memorable taste.
Craving authentic Mexican flavors? Reserve a table at Oh! Mexico now: Lincoln Road, Española Way or Ocean Drive.
Tips for customizing your esquites recipe
The beauty of esqueites is that the dish can easily be adapted to fit your tastes:
- Add a kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or serrano peppers, or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Make it herby: Add chopped epazote or scallions for an enhanced aroma.
- Try different cheeses: If cotija isn’t available, try feta or queso fresco.
- Go vegan: Swap the mayonnaise for vegan mayo and use dairy-free cheese.
- Switch up the texture: Add crushed tortilla chips or roasted pepitas for crunch.
These small changes will make your esquites feel like new every time you serve them.
Healthier takes on esquites
Esquites are naturally rich and satisfying, but there are simple ways to lighten them up:
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise to increase your protein intake and reduce your calorie intake.
- Roast corn with minimal oil or use an air fryer to reduce added fats.
- Opt for low-sodium cheese and limit salt where possible.
- Add diced vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes to increase your nutrient intake.
These healthier swaps make esqueites a great option for those who want to enjoy delicious food while keeping wellness in mind.
Why esquites belong on your table
This esqueites recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a flavorful introduction to Mexican street food culture. Its combination of roasted corn, creamy dressing, zesty lime, and spicy toppings makes it a crowd-pleasing favorite for any occasion.
Whether you’re preparing it for a backyard gathering, a weeknight meal, or a quick snack, esqueites offer a bold, comforting bite every time. Dive into the recipe, customize it to your liking, and enjoy the vibrant, delicious world of esquites right from your own kitchen.
