Mexican street corn, or elote, is a beloved staple of Mexican cuisine that has gained immense popularity around the world. Known for its delicious combination of sweet corn, creamy toppings, and bold flavors, elote is a must-try for anyone who loves street food. This article will explore what Mexican street corn is, its ingredients, how to make it, and some variations to try.
What is Mexican street corn?
Mexican street corn is a traditional Mexican dish typically sold by sidewalk vendors. It consists of grilled or fried corn on the cob, coated with a creamy mixture of mayonnaise and Mexican crema, then sprinkled with cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. The result is a delightful combination of smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors that perfectly complement the natural sweetness of the corn.
Mexican Street Corn ingredients
To make authentic Mexican Street Corn, you will need the following ingredients
– Fresh corn on the cob
– Mayonnaise
– Mexican Crema (or sour cream substitute)
– Cotija cheese (or substitute feta cheese)
– Chilli powder
– Lime juice
– Fresh cilantro (optional)
– Butter (optional)
How to make Mexican Street Corn
Making Mexican street corn is a simple process that involves grilling the corn and applying the toppings. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Peel the corn without removing the cobs and remove the silk. Soak the corn in water for about 15 minutes to prevent it from burning on the grill.
3. Grill the corn for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and lightly charred.
4. While the corn is grilling, make the creamy topping by combining equal parts mayonnaise and Mexican crema in a bowl.
5. When the corn is cooked, brush it with melted butter for added flavor (optional).
6. Spread the mayonnaise-crema mixture generously over each ear of corn.
7. Sprinkle the cotija cheese, chili powder, and chopped cilantro over the corn.
8. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top before serving.
Variations on Mexican Street Corn
While the traditional version of Mexican street corn is delicious, there are many variations you can try to suit your taste buds:
– Spicy elote: Add extra heat by using a hotter chili powder or adding chopped jalapeños.
– Cheesy Elote: Increase the amount of cotija cheese or mix in other types of cheese like parmesan or cheddar.
– Herbed Elote: Add fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or chives for a fresh twist.
– Sweet and Spicy Elote: Drizzle with honey or agave syrup for a sweet contrast to the spicy chili powder.
Serving suggestions
Mexican Street Corn can be served as a side dish or snack. It pairs well with other Mexican dishes such as tacos, quesadillas, or grilled meats. For a complete meal, serve elote with a refreshing drink such as horchata or a cold beer.
The Cultural Importance of Corn in Mexican Cuisine
Corn, or “maíz,” has a deep cultural significance in Mexican cuisine and history. It has been a staple food for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Aztecs and Mayans, who revered corn as a sacred crop. Corn is not only a staple food, but also a symbol of life and sustenance in Mexican culture. Its versatility is showcased in a variety of dishes, from traditional tortillas and tamales to modern street foods like esquites and tacos. At Oh! Mexico, the use of corn in their dishes pays homage to this rich heritage and offers guests an authentic taste of Mexico’s culinary traditions.
Health benefits of Mexican street corn
Corn is a nutritious vegetable that provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The traditional toppings for Mexican street corn, such as mayonnaise and cheese, add calories and fat, but they also enhance the flavor and enjoyment of the dish. To make a healthier version, use low-fat mayonnaise and crema and reduce the amount of cheese.
Dishes with Corn at Oh! Mexico
At Oh! Mexico you can enjoy a variety of dishes made with the beloved ingredient corn. Located in the heart of Ocean Drive, Española Way, and Lincoln Road, Oh! Mexico offers an authentic Mexican dining experience. Their menu includes:
Esquites: Grilled corn kernels mixed with red peppers, onions, garlic and cilantro, all tossed in mayonnaise and topped with cotija cheese and tajin spice. This dish is a delightful variation of street corn served on the cob.
Flautas Doradas de Papa: Crispy rolled corn tortillas stuffed with mashed potatoes, covered in green tomatillo sauce and topped with iceberg lettuce, guacamole, pico de gallo, cotija cheese and Mexican crema. These flautas offer a crunchy and flavorful bite with every bite.
Taco Birria: A popular dish featuring slow braised beef, melted Mexican cheese, birria broth, onion, and cilantro, all served in a soft corn tortilla. This taco is rich in flavor and perfect for those who love a hearty meal.
Mexican street corn, or elote, is a flavorful and satisfying dish that captures the essence of Mexican street food. Whether you enjoy it as a snack or a side dish, the combination of sweet corn, creamy toppings, and bold spices is sure to delight your taste buds. With this guide, you can make your own Mexican street corn at home and experiment with different variations to suit your tastes. And if you’re in Miami, be sure to visit Oh! Mexico for some delicious Mexican specialties.