The Best Homemade Elotes Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Craving something savory and satisfying? This Homemade Elotes recipe brings the flavors of Mexican street corn right to your kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a cozy weeknight snack. You’ll love the creamy, tangy coating that hugs the sweet grilled corn, making every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s customizable—add extra spice if you like it hot or sprinkle on extra cheese for a richer flavor. And don’t forget the lime juice; it adds that zesty punch that keeps you coming back for more!
Recipe
Elotes, also known as Mexican street corn, is a beloved dish that combines the simplicity of grilled corn with a rich, tangy, and spicy topping. This homemade version captures the essence of the classic street food, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husks removed
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until lightly charred, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and sour cream (or crema) until well combined.
- Once the corn is cooked, brush each ear generously with the mayonnaise mixture.
- Sprinkle the cotija cheese over the corn, ensuring it sticks to the creamy layer.
- Dust the corn with chili powder to taste.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes:
- For a smokier flavor, you can grill the corn in its husk and remove it before applying the toppings.
- If cotija cheese is unavailable, feta cheese can be used as a substitute.
Equipment:
Grill or grill pan, small mixing bowl, basting brush
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: Mexican
Serving: 4 servings
Nutrition
Elotes are a nutritious and flavorful snack that provides a good balance of macros and essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 10mg |
| Sodium | 300mg |
| Total Carbs | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Vitamin D | 0mcg |
| Calcium | 80mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
| Potassium | 250mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade elotes with fresh side dishes like a crisp avocado salad or tangy coleslaw to balance the rich flavors. A chilled glass of horchata or a cold beer makes for the perfect beverage pairing, cooling you down with every bite. Together, these combinations turn a simple dish into a meal I always look forward to.
Fresh Side Dishes
Nothing beats the bright, fresh flavors of a simple side dish to balance out the rich, smoky taste of elotes. I love pairing mine with a crisp cucumber salad, tossed with lime juice and a pinch of salt—it’s invigorating and cuts through the creaminess. A tangy jicama slaw with orange dressing also works wonders, adding crunch and zing. If I’m craving something heartier, I’ll whip up a quick black bean salad with cilantro and red onion. These sides keep things light but flavorful, letting the elotes shine while rounding out the meal perfectly. Trust me, you’ll want seconds!
Perfect Beverage Pairings
When planning the perfect drink to go with elotes, it’s all about balancing those bold, creamy flavors with something invigorating or equally bold. I love pairing them with a cold Mexican lager like Modelo or Pacifico—it’s crisp and cuts through the richness perfectly. If you’re not into beer, a tangy agua fresca, like lime or tamarind, adds a revitalizing contrast. For something bolder, try a michelada with its zesty, spicy kick. Personally, I sometimes go for a chilled hibiscus tea; its tartness complements the sweetness of the corn. Whatever you choose, make sure it enhances, not overpowers, your elote experience.
