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Mexican Street Corn Recipe

4.6 from 126 reviews

Mexican Street Corn, also known as Elote, is a flavorful and classic Mexican snack featuring tender roasted corn on the cob slathered with a garlic-infused mayonnaise, tangy lime juice, crumbled cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a smoky chipotle chili powder kick. This easy recipe captures the authentic taste of Mexican street vendors and is perfect as a side dish or party appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Corn

  • 6 Ears Fresh Sweet Corn

Mayonnaise Mixture

  • 6 Tablespoons Mayonnaise
  • ½ Teaspoon Garlic Powder

Coating and Garnishes

  • 1 Cup Cotija Cheese, Crumbled
  • 6 Tablespoons Fresh Cilantro, Roughly Chopped
  • 1 Teaspoon Chipotle Chili Powder
  • 2 Limes, Quartered

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Corn: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Keep the corn in their husks and place them directly on the oven rack to roast.
  2. Bake the Corn: Bake the corn for 35 to 40 minutes until the kernels are tender when pierced with a fork, ensuring the corn steams inside the husk and cooks evenly.
  3. Prepare the Garlic Mayonnaise: While the corn roasts, combine the mayonnaise and garlic powder in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly to infuse the mayo with garlic flavor.
  4. Apply the Garlic Mayo: Once the corn is cooked and slightly cooled, carefully peel back the husks or remove them, then brush the garlic mayonnaise generously all over each ear of corn.
  5. Coat with Cotija Cheese: Roll the mayo-coated corn in the crumbled cotija cheese to create a creamy, salty layer on each ear.
  6. Add Cilantro and Chili Powder: Sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro and chipotle chili powder evenly over the cheese-coated corn for fresh herbal notes and smoky heat.
  7. Finish with Lime: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn to add brightness and a slight tang, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Notes

  • Using fresh corn is key for the best flavor and texture.
  • If cotija cheese is unavailable, feta cheese can be used as a substitute but will alter the flavor slightly.
  • Adjust chipotle chili powder to your preferred spice level or omit for mild taste.
  • You can also grill the corn instead of baking for a smokier flavor.
  • For easier handling, pull back the husks before roasting and tie them to use as a handle after cooking.

Keywords: Mexican street corn, elote, roasted corn, cotija cheese, chipotle chili powder, lime, garlic mayonnaise, Mexican side dish