Elote Recipe
This classic Mexican street corn recipe features tender, boiled corn charred on the grill, brushed with melted butter, and glazed with a creamy mayo-crema sauce, salty cotija cheese, and lime.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Outdoor grill or grill pan
- Pastry brush
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 4 ears corn, husked
- 2 Tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 Tablespoons Mexican crema, or sour cream
- 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, freshly grated, or queso fresco
- chili powder, or tajin, to taste
- 1 lime, quartered
- fresh chopped cilantro, for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat, then add the husked corn and cook until just tender, about 10 minutes. The kernels should look plump and turn a slightly deeper yellow when they are ready.
- Brush the warm corn all over with melted butter, then place it on a medium-heat grill. Turn occasionally until the kernels pick up light golden brown streaks and a smoky aroma starts to rise.
- While the corn is still hot, whisk together the mayonnaise and Mexican crema, then spread a thin, even layer over each ear. The heat from the corn helps the mixture melt slightly and cling to every kernel instead of sliding off.
- Sprinkle the coated corn generously with cotija cheese, then dust with chili powder to taste. Finish with a scatter of chopped cilantro and serve with a lime wedge for squeezing over the top.
- Serve right away while the corn is warm and the toppings are fresh. The contrast of hot corn, cool crema, and bright lime is best enjoyed immediately.
Notes
Dressing tip: Coat the corn while it is still hot. Applying the creamy sauce to cold corn causes the glaze to slide off instead of adhering to the kernels.
Corn selection: Opt for fresh ears with tight green husks and sticky, golden silk. Squeeze the husk to ensure plump, tightly packed kernels all the way to the tip.
Grilling safety: If grilling with the husks on, soak the ears in water for 15 to 20 minutes beforehand to prevent the husks from catching fire over the flame.
Nutrition information is an estimate based on common ingredients and serving sizes. Values may vary depending on brands, portions, and substitutions.