Mexican Street Corn Recipe
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.
- Author: mia
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Coat with Cotija Cheese: Roll the mayo-coated corn in the crumbled cotija cheese to create a creamy, salty layer on each ear.
- 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.
- 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