Summer is the perfect time to indulge in one of Mexico's most beloved street foods: elote. Known in English as "Mexican street corn," elote provides a delightful explosion of flavors that can elevate your summer snacking. Whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard barbecue, these five must-try elote recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds and make your summer gatherings unforgettable.
Traditional Elote with a Twist
The classic elote, grilled to perfection, can be easily adapted to suit diverse palates. Here's how to do it:
- Prepare your Corn: Grill corn on the cob until charred.
- Coat with Butter: Brush with a generous layer of mayonnaise or Mexican crema for a creamy base.
- Add the Flavors: Sprinkle a mix of chili powder, cotija cheese, and lime juice. For a twist, consider adding ingredients like crushed chili flakes or hot sauce for extra kick.
🔍 Note: Cotija cheese is often used for elote but if unavailable, try using feta or parmesan cheese as a substitute.
Elote Salad
If you're looking for a simpler, yet no less flavorful option, elote salad is a refreshing choice:
- Grill or boil corn kernels.
- Mix with chopped cilantro, diced red onion, jalapeños, and a sprinkle of chili powder.
- Finish with a squeeze of lime, a drizzle of olive oil, and crumbled cotija cheese.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Corn kernels | 4 cups |
| Cilantro | 1/4 cup, chopped |
| Red Onion | 1/2, finely diced |
| Jalapeños | 1-2, minced |
| Chili Powder | 1 tbsp |
| Lime Juice | 2 limes |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Cotija Cheese | 1/4 cup, crumbled |
🌶️ Note: Adjust the jalapeño according to your spice tolerance. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds.
Elote Nachos
Elote can even transform the humble nacho into a gourmet snack:
- Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
- Top with grilled corn, black beans, cotija cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Bake until the cheese is melted, then finish with avocado slices, jalapeño, and a sprinkle of chili powder.
Elote Dip
For a portable and shareable option, consider elote dip:
- Mix grilled corn, mayo, sour cream, cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro in a bowl.
- Season with chili powder, lime juice, and a hint of garlic powder for depth of flavor.
- Serve with chips or veggies for dipping.
Elote Stuffed Peppers
Want something both nutritious and tasty? Try stuffed peppers with elote:
- Halve bell peppers and remove seeds.
- Fill with a mixture of corn kernels, diced tomatoes, black beans, cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro.
- Bake until the peppers are soft and the filling is heated through.
- Finish with a squeeze of lime and sprinkle of chili powder.
These elote recipes not only bring the unique flavors of Mexico to your summer snacks but also offer versatility to suit different occasions. They're perfect for adding a burst of color, texture, and zest to your gatherings. The blend of smoky corn, creamy cheese, and zesty toppings makes elote an irresistible option for any summer feast.
Can I use frozen corn for elote recipes?
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Yes, you can use frozen corn for convenience, though grilling fresh corn on the cob imparts a unique smoky flavor.
What is a good substitute for cotija cheese?
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If cotija is unavailable, you can substitute with feta or parmesan cheese for a similar taste and texture.
How do I grill corn indoors if I don’t have an outdoor grill?
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You can use a stovetop grill pan or even a regular frying pan on high heat to char your corn.
Can I make these elote recipes ahead of time?
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Most elote recipes can be prepped ahead. Store in the fridge, and finish with fresh toppings just before serving for the best flavor.
Is there a vegan version of elote?
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Absolutely! Substitute vegan mayo for the traditional mayo, use nutritional yeast or vegan cheese in place of cotija, and ensure that your toppings like sour cream and butter are also plant-based.
