Mexican corn on the cob, also known as “Elote,” is a delicious and flavorful dish that’s popular in Mexican cuisine. It’s typically made by grilling or roasting corn on the cob and then adding a combination of savory and tangy toppings. Here’s how you can make Mexican corn on the cob:
Ingredients:
- Fresh corn on the cob, husked
- Mayonnaise
- Crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese)
- Chili powder or Tajín seasoning
- Fresh lime wedges
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat the Grill or Oven:
- If grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- If using the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Corn:
- Peel back the husks of the corn, but leave them attached at the base. Remove the silk strands. You can also remove the husks completely if you prefer.
- Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk.
- Grilling or Roasting:
- Grill Method: Place the corn on the grill grates and cook, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and slightly charred on all sides, about 10-15 minutes.
- Oven Method: Place the corn directly on a baking sheet or on the oven rack and roast for about 20-25 minutes, turning the corn halfway through.
- Coat with Mayonnaise:
- Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the grill or oven. Using a brush or a spoon, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise over each ear of corn. This will help the toppings adhere and add a creamy texture.
- Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese) evenly over the mayonnaise-coated corn.
- Dust the corn with chili powder or Tajín seasoning. You can adjust the amount of seasoning based on your spice preference.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Arrange the corn on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Squeeze fresh lime wedges over the corn to add tanginess.
- If desired, sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top for a fresh and aromatic flavor.
- Season to Taste:
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, if needed. The cheese and seasonings will already add some saltiness, so adjust according to your preference.
- Enjoy!
- Mexican corn on the cob is typically eaten while it’s still warm. It’s a delicious and messy treat, so have plenty of napkins on hand.
Elote is a versatile dish, and you can customize the toppings to your liking. Some variations include adding hot sauce, minced garlic, or even a drizzle of melted butter. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!