Esquites Recipe: If you’ve ever walked through the streets of Mexico, you’ve likely encountered vendors selling cups of deliciously creamy, cheesy, and tangy corn—known as esquites. This beloved Mexican street food is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors and comforting snacks.
Unlike elote, which is grilled corn on the cob, esquites are corn kernels cooked and mixed with butter, mayonnaise, cheese, lime, and chili powder. The result is an incredibly satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, side, or even a meal on its own!
Let’s dive into how you can make this irresistible dish at home with simple ingredients and easy steps.
Ingredients Needed for Esquites
To make authentic esquites, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Essential Ingredients:
- 4 cups of fresh corn kernels (from about 4-5 ears of corn)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Mexican crema (or sour cream)
- ½ cup cotija cheese (or feta cheese)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (Tajín or smoked paprika for a milder taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup water or chicken broth (for cooking)
Optional Toppings & Variations:
- Hot sauce (Valentina or Cholula)
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Diced jalapeños for extra spice
- Crushed tortilla chips for added crunch
- Grated cheddar cheese for a melty version
Using fresh corn is ideal, but you can also use canned or frozen corn. If using canned corn, drain it well. If using frozen corn, thaw and drain it before cooking.
Tools and Equipment Required
Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools:
- Large skillet or saucepan – To cook the corn properly.
- Mixing spoon – For stirring the ingredients together.
- Cutting board and knife – To prepare fresh toppings.
- Measuring spoons and cups – To ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
- Serving cups or bowls – Traditionally, esquites are served in small cups for easy eating.
Now that we have everything ready, let’s start cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Esquites
Step 1: Preparing the Corn
- If using fresh corn, remove the husks and silk.
- Cut the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife. Hold the corn upright in a large bowl and carefully slice downward.
Step 2: Cooking the Corn
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add butter and let it melt.
- Toss in the corn kernels and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they start to turn golden brown.
- Pour in 1 cup of water or chicken broth and let the corn simmer for another 5 minutes until tender.
Step 3: Adding Seasonings and Flavors
- Stir in mayonnaise, Mexican crema, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is coated evenly.
- Add chili powder for that signature street-food spice. Adjust based on your preference.
- Sprinkle in cotija cheese and stir gently.
Step 4: Assembling and Serving
- Spoon the esquites into small cups or bowls.
- Garnish with extra cheese, more chili powder, and a squeeze of fresh lime.
- For extra heat, drizzle with hot sauce.
- Serve warm and enjoy this delicious Mexican street food!
Variations of Esquites
Want to mix things up? Here are some exciting ways to customize your esquites:
Spicy Esquites
- Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers while cooking.
- Mix in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Cheesy Esquites
- Stir in grated cheddar or Oaxaca cheese while the corn is still warm.
- Top with extra melted cheese for a gooey bite.
Vegan & Dairy-Free Esquites
- Swap butter for olive oil or vegan butter.
- Use vegan mayo and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Tips for the Best Esquites
- Choose fresh corn for the best texture and sweetness.
- Don’t overcook the corn—it should be tender but not mushy.
- Adjust spice levels to your liking by adding more or less chili powder.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Pairing Esquites with Other Mexican Dishes
Esquites taste amazing on their own, but they pair beautifully with other Mexican favorites, such as:
- Tacos – Carnitas, al pastor, or chicken tacos.
- Tamales – A comforting and traditional pairing.
- Quesadillas – Cheesy goodness that complements the creamy corn.
- Horchata or Agua Fresca – Sweet drinks to balance the spice.
FAQs about Esquites Recipe
What are esquites?
Esquites, also known as Mexican street corn salad, is a savory, tangy, and slightly spicy dish made from sautéed corn mixed with a variety of seasonings, lime juice, and cheese. It’s a popular snack sold in cups by street vendors in Mexico and is enjoyed worldwide for its unique flavor.
What ingredients do I need for esquites?
To whip up some delicious esquites, you’ll need fresh corn kernels, epazote (a traditional herb), chili powder, lime, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and salt. Some variations might include chopped cilantro or diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
How do you cook the corn for esquites?
The corn for esquites is traditionally sautéed until golden and caramelized. This method intensifies the corn’s natural sweetness and adds a delightful crunch. Simply heat some butter or oil in a skillet, add the corn, and stir frequently until it’s beautifully bronzed.
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned corn as a quick alternative. Drain and dry the corn well before sautéing to mimic the texture and flavor of fresh corn as closely as possible. However, for the best results and authentic flavor, fresh corn is highly recommended.
Is esquites served hot or cold?
Esquites can be enjoyed both hot and cold, making it a versatile dish suitable for any season. Serve it warm to enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth cheese or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing summer salad.
What’s the best way to serve esquites?
Esquites is typically served in small cups, garnished with extra chili powder, a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese on top. It’s perfect as a side dish or a standalone snack.
Can I make esquites ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare your esquites ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just hold off on adding the cheese and final seasonings until you’re ready to serve to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Esquites are the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors, making them an irresistible street food you can easily recreate at home. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a side dish, they never fail to impress.
So, grab some fresh corn, whip up this easy esquites recipe, and bring the flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen!
