Elote, or Mexican Street Corn, is a quintessential Mexican street food bursting with flavor. This popular snack takes a whole corn cob, grills it until charred and smoky, then slathers it in a creamy, tangy mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice. It’s then rolled in crumbled cotija cheese and sprinkled with chili powder, adding a kick that complements the sweet juiciness of the corn. A final touch of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice makes each bite irresistibly delicious.
Elote is traditionally served on a stick for easy eating on the go, making it a favorite treat at festivals, markets, and street fairs. Its combination of creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors, along with the natural sweetness and crunch of the corn, makes Elote a beloved choice for those looking to enjoy a classic taste of Mexican culinary culture.
Cook the Corn:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until cooked through and charred in spots, about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can boil the corn in a large pot of salted water for about 5 to 8 minutes until tender.
Mix the Sauce:
In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and a pinch of salt.
Dress the Corn:
Once the corn is cooked and while still hot, brush it generously with the mayonnaise mixture. Sprinkle each ear with cotija cheese, chili powder, and cilantro if using.
Serve:
Serve the corn immediately with lime wedges on the side. Encourage guests to squeeze lime over their corn before eating.
Ingredients
Directions
Cook the Corn:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until cooked through and charred in spots, about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can boil the corn in a large pot of salted water for about 5 to 8 minutes until tender.
Mix the Sauce:
In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and a pinch of salt.
Dress the Corn:
Once the corn is cooked and while still hot, brush it generously with the mayonnaise mixture. Sprinkle each ear with cotija cheese, chili powder, and cilantro if using.
Serve:
Serve the corn immediately with lime wedges on the side. Encourage guests to squeeze lime over their corn before eating.
Perfect Wine Pairing:
- Riesling: A slightly off-dry Riesling works beautifully with Elote, as its brightness and hint of sweetness complement the spicy and tangy flavors of the dish.