Introduction

Hey there! Today I want to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes: Grilled Street Corn, also known as Elote. This dish holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of summer barbecues with friends and family. The combination of smoky grilled corn, creamy sauce, and flavorful toppings is simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This

I make this when I want to add a burst of flavor to my cookouts or when I’m craving a taste of Mexican street food. My family goes crazy for this because it’s a fun and unique way to enjoy corn. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences. It’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress!

Ingredients

For this delicious Grilled Street Corn, you’ll need the following:

– Fresh corn on the cob

– Mayonnaise

– Cotija cheese, crumbled

– Chili powder

– Fresh lime juice

– Fresh cilantro, chopped

– Salt and pepper to taste

I sometimes use Mexican crema instead of mayonnaise for a tangier flavor. If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta cheese works as a great substitute. And don’t worry if you can’t find fresh cilantro; you can use parsley as an alternative. Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Directions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

2. Remove the husks and silk from the corn, leaving the stalk intact for easy handling.

3. Place the corn directly on the grill grates and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are slightly charred.

4. While the corn is grilling, prepare the sauce by combining the mayonnaise, lime juice, and a pinch of chili powder in a small bowl. Mix well.

5. Once the corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

6. Using a brush or spoon, generously coat each ear of corn with the sauce.

7. Sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese, a dash of chili powder, and a squeeze of lime juice over the corn.

8. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.

9. Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Notes

I’ve found that grilling the corn brings out its natural sweetness and adds a delightful smoky flavor. However, if you don’t have a grill, you can achieve similar results by using a stovetop grill pan or even broiling the corn in the oven. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Variations

Over the years, I’ve experimented with different toppings and discovered some fantastic variations:

– For a spicy kick, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or hot sauce on top.

– If you’re a fan of garlic, mix some minced garlic into the sauce for an extra punch of flavor.

– Want to add some crunch? Try coating the corn with crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs.

– If you’re a vegetarian, you can skip the cheese and opt for a dairy-free sauce using vegan mayo.

– Feeling adventurous? Replace the chili powder with a sprinkle of Tajin seasoning for a unique twist.

Equipment

This recipe calls for a grill, but if you don’t have one, don’t worry! You can achieve similar results using a stovetop grill pan or by broiling the corn in the oven. Adaptability is the name of the game in the kitchen!

Storage Information

Although leftovers are rare when it comes to Grilled Street Corn, you can store any unused corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 2 days. But let’s be honest, in my house, it never lasts more than a day!

Serving Suggestions

I love serving Grilled Street Corn as a side dish at barbecues or as a tasty appetizer for summer gatherings. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, such as juicy steak or tender chicken. For a complete Mexican-inspired feast, serve it alongside some flavorful tacos and refreshing margaritas. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Pro Tips

– To avoid overcooking the corn, keep a close eye on it while grilling. You want it to be tender and slightly charred, not burned.

– Don’t be shy when it comes to adding toppings. The more, the merrier! Get creative and load up your corn with all your favorite flavors.

– If you want to kick up the heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños on top.

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

A: While fresh corn is ideal for this recipe, you can use frozen corn kernels if that’s what you have on hand. Just thaw them before grilling or sauté them in a pan until heated through.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Grilled Street Corn is best enjoyed fresh off the grill. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them as mentioned earlier and reheat them in the oven or on the grill. Keep in mind that the texture may slightly change upon reheating.

So, there you have it – a mouthwatering recipe for Grilled Street Corn. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite. It’s a dish that brings people together and adds a touch of fiesta to any meal. So fire up that grill and get ready to savor the flavors of this Mexican street food classic!