Street Corn Recipe: Street corn, also known as Elote, is a delicious Mexican-inspired snack that combines the sweetness of corn with savory seasonings, creamy mayo, and tangy cheese, all enhanced by a squeeze of fresh lime.
This dish has become a popular choice worldwide, adored for its unique flavor and ease of preparation. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just looking for a quick, flavorful side, this street corn recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients Needed
To make authentic street corn, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 fresh ears of corn, husked and cleaned
- ¼ cup of mayonnaise
- ¼ cup of sour cream (optional for a creamier texture)
- ½ cup of crumbled Cotija cheese (or Parmesan as an alternative)
- 1 tablespoon of chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Freshly chopped cilantro for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter
These ingredients capture the essence of classic street corn, but feel free to customize with additional spices, cheeses, or garnishes.
Equipment Needed
- Grill or stovetop griddle (for grilling the corn)
- Basting brush (for applying butter)
- Small bowl for mixing seasonings and mayo
- Tongs to turn the corn
- Serving plate
Step-by-Step Street Corn Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
Begin with fresh corn on the cob. Look for ears with bright green husks and moist silk tops, which indicate freshness.
- Remove the husks and all silk strands from the corn.
- Rinse the corn thoroughly under cold water to remove any remaining silk or debris.
This step is essential to ensure that each bite of your street corn is smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Grilling or Roasting the Corn
Cooking the corn brings out its natural sweetness. There are two main methods:
- Grilling Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Place each ear of corn on the grill and rotate every 2-3 minutes until all sides are evenly charred, about 10-12 minutes in total.
- Oven-Roasting Method: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush each ear of corn with a little oil, place it on a baking sheet, and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
For an alternative, you can also boil the corn for a softer texture, though grilling or roasting adds a preferred smoky flavor.
Step 3: Preparing the Seasoning Mix
While the corn is cooking, prepare your seasoning blend. The following mix provides an authentic street corn flavor:
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, and chili powder. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
For extra depth, try adding smoked paprika or cayenne for additional heat. This blend gives the corn its classic creamy texture and spicy kick.
Step 4: Applying Butter and Mayo
Once the corn is cooked to your liking, it’s time to coat it:
- Using a basting brush, apply a thin layer of melted butter over the corn. This adds a rich, smooth base that makes the corn even tastier.
- Next, spread the mayo mixture evenly over each ear, ensuring every kernel is covered. For an even spread, apply it in small amounts rather than all at once.
The butter and mayo help the seasonings and cheese stick better, creating that signature flavor we love in street corn.
Step 5: Adding the Seasoning
After applying the butter and mayo, coat the corn with chili powder or your seasoning mix:
- Sprinkle chili powder evenly over the corn, rotating it to cover all sides.
- For extra spice, consider sprinkling on cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.
Be generous with the seasoning if you want a bold flavor, or go lighter for a milder taste.
Step 6: Adding Cheese
Cheese is an essential ingredient that gives street corn its iconic savory finish. Cotija is traditional, but you can use Parmesan if Cotija isn’t available:
- Roll the corn in the crumbled cheese, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
- Alternatively, sprinkle the cheese by hand if you want a lighter coating.
Adding cheese adds a salty, umami flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy mayo and chili seasoning.
Step 7: Adding Fresh Lime
The final flavor-enhancing touch for street corn is fresh lime juice:
- Squeeze lime wedges over each ear of corn right before serving.
- The acidity balances the richness of the butter, mayo, and cheese, making every bite more vibrant.
If you prefer a hint of zest, add lime zest along with the juice for an extra pop of citrus flavor.
Step 8: Garnishing and Final Touches
To elevate the presentation, consider these garnishing ideas:
- Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the corn for added freshness.
- Add a dusting of smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.
These final touches make your street corn visually appealing and even more flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
Street corn can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Some pairing suggestions include:
- Tacos or grilled meats: Street corn complements Mexican dishes wonderfully.
- Cold beverages: Serve with a refreshing drink like iced tea, beer, or limeade.
This dish is ideal for casual gatherings, backyard barbecues, or anytime you want to serve a crowd-pleasing treat.
Common Variations of Street Corn
Street corn can be customized for different preferences:
- Mexican Street Corn Cups: Slice the corn off the cob and layer in cups with cheese, mayo, lime, and seasonings for easy individual servings.
- Elote en Vaso (Corn in a Cup): Add a spoonful of black beans or diced jalapeños to your corn cup for a twist on the classic.
These variations offer all the delicious flavors of street corn in a convenient, mess-free form.
Health Benefits of Street Corn
Street corn isn’t just delicious; it also provides several health benefits:
- High in Fiber: Corn is rich in fiber, which supports digestion.
- Packed with Vitamins: Contains B vitamins, vitamin C, and essential antioxidants.
- Protein Source: When combined with cheese, street corn offers a balance of protein and fats.
Adding fresh ingredients like cilantro and lime further enhances its nutritional value, making it both tasty and wholesome.
FAQs about Street Corn Recipe
1. What is street corn?
Street corn, also known as “elote” in Mexican cuisine, is a popular street food consisting of grilled corn on the cob, typically slathered in a mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. It’s a flavorful and spicy snack that combines creamy, tangy, and smoky elements.
2. What ingredients do I need for street corn?
The basic ingredients for street corn include fresh corn on the cob, mayonnaise, sour cream, crumbled cheese (like cotija or feta), lime juice, and chili powder. Additional ingredients like cilantro, garlic powder, and paprika can add extra flavor.
3. Can I make street corn without a grill?
Yes, if you don’t have a grill, you can roast the corn in the oven or on a stovetop grill pan. This still gives a nice charred effect and allows you to achieve the smoky flavor characteristic of traditional street corn.
4. What cheese is best for street corn?
Cotija cheese is most commonly used in authentic Mexican street corn recipes, but feta can be a good substitute if cotija is unavailable. Both cheeses add a salty, tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
5. Is street corn served hot or cold?
Street corn is traditionally served hot, right off the grill. However, you can also let it cool to room temperature or even chill it for a refreshing twist, especially in warm weather.
6. Can I make a dairy-free street corn?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using vegan mayonnaise and skipping the cheese, or substituting it with a dairy-free alternative. Add extra spices or a squeeze of lime to boost flavor.
7. How do I store leftover street corn?
Store leftover street corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave or a low oven, but note that it may lose some of its texture.
Conclusion
This street corn recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy a popular Mexican-inspired dish at home. With just a few ingredients and a straightforward process, you can create a memorable, mouthwatering treat that’s sure to please everyone. Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your taste, whether you want more heat, extra cheese, or a twist of lime zest.
