Ultimate Elote Recipe: Grilled Mexican Street Corn
This elote recipe is the ultimate upgrade for corn on the cob! Smothered with mayo, chile, cheese, and lime, it’s creamy, tangy, smoky, and sweet.
What Is Elote?
Elote, also known as Mexican street corn, is a beloved Mexican dish made from corn on the cob. The ears of corn are grilled or boiled, then generously coated with mayonnaise or crema, before being topped with lime, chili, and traditional Mexican cheese like Cotija.
This snack is a favorite among street vendors in Mexico and is also a wonderful side dish for summer cookouts and BBQs.
For a delightful twist, check out my Mexican street corn salad! Inspired by esquites, this dish features corn cut off the cob mixed with mayo, lime, and cheese, making it a must-try during sweet corn season!
Ingredients for Elote
To make this indulgent elote, you’ll need the following:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh Sweet Corn | 4 ears |
| Mayonnaise | ⅓ cup |
| Fresh Lime Juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Lime Zest | ½ teaspoon |
| Chili Powder or Ancho Chile Powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Cotija Cheese | ⅓ cup, crumbled |
| Fresh Cilantro | 2 tablespoons, chopped |
| Sea Salt | to taste |
How to Grill the Corn
The first step to creating the perfect elote is grilling the corn.
Whether you choose to grill the corn with the husks on or off, both methods are effective. However, charring the kernels enhances the smoky flavor.
If you’re grilling in the husks, pull them back for the last few minutes to achieve those desirable char marks.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Elote
- Grill the corn over medium-high heat, turning every 3 to 5 minutes until all sides are cooked, about 15 minutes total.
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lime juice, and zest.
- Once the corn is grilled, use a pastry brush or knife to coat it with the mayo mixture.
- Sprinkle with chili powder, Cotija cheese, and cilantro, and season with sea salt to taste.
- Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the top.
No grill? No problem. Use a grill pan or charred in a dry cast-iron skillet.
You can also boil the corn if you prefer! Though it won’t have that smoky taste, it’ll still be delicious and juicy.
Serving Suggestions
This grilled Mexican street corn is an excellent snack or side dish for a variety of summer meals. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Pair with grilled meats like chicken or steak.
- Serve alongside fresh salads.
- Incorporate into a summer potluck or picnic.
FAQs
What is elote?
Elote is a traditional Mexican street food that consists of grilled corn on the cob topped with mayonnaise, cheese, and spices.
Can I make elote without a grill?
Yes! You can use a grill pan, skillet, or even boil the corn instead.
Is there a substitute for Cotija cheese?
If Cotija cheese is unavailable, you can use crumbled feta or finely grated Parmesan cheese as alternatives.