Get ready to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Mexico with this irresistible Spanish Corn Elote Preparado! Imagine biting into perfectly charred corn, dripping with creamy mayonnaise, tangy cotija cheese, and a kick of chili powder that will make your mouth water. This isn't just a side dish – it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple corn into a street food masterpiece that will have your friends and family begging for more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the corn by removing all husks and silk, ensuring the ears are clean and fully exposed.
- Heat a grill or large skillet to medium-high heat. If using a grill, aim for around 400-450°F for optimal charring.
- Place corn directly on the hot grill or skillet, rotating every 1-2 minutes to ensure even charring and cooking on all sides. Cook for approximately 8-10 minutes total until kernels are tender and have golden-brown char marks.
- Remove corn from heat and let cool slightly for 1-2 minutes to prevent burning when applying toppings.
- Using a basting brush or spoon, generously coat each ear of corn with mayonnaise, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese over the mayonnaise-covered corn, pressing gently to help cheese adhere.
- Dust each ear with chili powder, distributing evenly across the surface for balanced spice.
- Finish by squeezing fresh lime wedges over the corn, allowing the citrus juice to enhance the flavors.
- Sprinkle with additional salt to taste if desired, and serve immediately while still warm.
Tips
- • Choose fresh, high-quality corn for the best flavor and texture. Look for ears with bright, plump kernels and green, fresh husks.• For the ultimate char, use a cast-iron skillet or grill with high, direct heat. The key is to get those beautiful golden-brown marks that add smoky depth to the corn.• Don't be shy with the toppings! The magic of elote is in its generous coating of mayo, cheese, and spices.• If you don't have a grill, a hot skillet or even a broiler can work perfectly for achieving that characteristic charred look.• Serve immediately after preparing to enjoy the corn at its peak temperature and flavor. The combination of warm corn and cool, creamy toppings is what makes elote truly special.• For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise, or use a mix of both.• Pro hack: Use a corn holder or carefully hold the corn with tongs to make rotating and handling easier while cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
