Authentic Mexican Street Corn Recipe

Looking to bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn right to your kitchen? Look no further than this must-try recipe for Mexican Street Corn. Imagine warm kernels of corn coated in a creamy sauce, bursting with tangy lime and a hint of spicy chili. This dish strikes the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, tangy, and spicy, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

I first introduced this Mexican Street Corn as an appetizer for a backyard taco night, and my family devoured it before dinner even hit the table. Since then, it has become a go-to favorite for impromptu gatherings and snack cravings. The joy of watching loved ones customize their bowls with extra sriracha, fresh lime, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese is what makes this dish truly special.

Whether you serve it as a side dish for tacos, grilled meats, or enchiladas, or spoon it over salads or loaded baked potatoes, this Mexican Street Corn is versatile and delicious. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the opportunity it offers for guests to personalize their flavors. So, prepare a batch, garnish with cheese and fresh herbs, and savor the magic of Mexican markets in every spoonful.

Quick Benefits

• Versatile Dish: Can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or topping for various dishes like tacos, salads, or baked potatoes.
• Customizable: Adjust spiciness with sriracha and chili powder, swap ingredients like Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or add extras like jalapenos for a twist.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepared corn mixture can be frozen and reheated later with fresh toppings for a time-saving option during holidays or gatherings.
• Authentic Flavors: Brings the magic of Mexican street corn to your table with bold, creamy flavors enhanced by lime, cilantro, and chili powder.

Why You’ll Love This Authentic Mexican Street Corn Recipe Recipe

• Authentic Mexican Flavors: Experience the vibrant and bold flavors of Mexican street corn right in your own kitchen, reminiscent of the bustling markets of Mexico.
• Customizable to Taste: Adjust the level of spiciness with sriracha and chili powder, and add extra lime for a burst of freshness, allowing you to tailor the dish to your personal preference.
• Family Favorite: Perfect for gatherings or snack cravings, this dish is a hit with both kids and adults. The empty bowls and requests for the recipe speak for themselves.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld together beautifully, making it even more delicious the next day.
• Versatile Serving Suggestions: Serve as a side dish for tacos, grilled meats, or enchiladas, or use as a topping for salads or baked potatoes. Guests can personalize their bowls with extra toppings for a fun culinary experience.
• Lighter Option Available: Swap mayonnaise and sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter version without compromising on the creamy texture.
• Grilled Corn Variation: Enhance the dish by grilling the corn for a smoky charred flavor, adding an extra layer of complexity to the dish.
• Freezer-Friendly: Double or triple the recipe and freeze the cooked corn mixture for later use, making it a convenient option for holidays and family gatherings.

Ingredients for Authentic Mexican Street Corn Recipe

Main

• Chili powder, to taste
• Lime salt, optional, to taste
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 pound frozen corn
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, to taste
• 1/2 cup cotija cheese or queso fresco, crumbled
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 1/2 teaspoon sriracha sauce, or to taste
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• Kosher salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Pro Tips for Authentic Mexican Street Corn Recipe

For a delicious twist, try grilling the corn before mixing it with the creamy sauce to add a smoky charred flavor reminiscent of authentic Mexican street corn. This extra step will elevate the dish and impress your guests with the added depth of flavor.

To enhance the flavors and textures of this Mexican street corn, consider mixing in diced jalapenos for a spicy kick or charred corn for a smoky grilled version. These additions will add complexity and variety to the dish, making it even more appealing to your family and friends.

If you’re looking to make a lighter version of this recipe, opt for plain Greek yogurt as a substitute for both the sour cream and mayonnaise. This swap will reduce the overall calorie content while maintaining the creamy texture and tangy flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy this delicious dish guilt-free!

How to Make Authentic Mexican Street Corn Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Corn Base

In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Stir in granulated sugar until dissolved.

Step 2: Simmer Corn

Place frozen corn in the boiling water, cover with a lid, and simmer over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes until kernels are heated through and tender.

Step 3: Prepare Creamy Sauce

While the corn is cooking, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, sriracha, kosher salt, and lime salt in a bowl until smooth.

Step 4: Drain and Cool Corn

Thoroughly drain the cooked corn and return it to the saucepan. Let it cool for about 3 minutes.

Step 5: Mix Corn with Sauce

Gently combine the creamy sriracha mixture with the warm corn until well coated.

Step 6: Assemble and Garnish

Evenly distribute the dressed corn into four serving cups. Sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, a pinch of chili powder, and a lime wedge. Serve promptly.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared this delicious Mexican street corn, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld and deepen overnight, enhancing the dish even further. To reheat, gently warm the corn in the microwave and give it a thorough stir before serving. For optimal freshness, add the cotija cheese or queso fresco crumbles and fresh cilantro just before enjoying the dish to keep them vibrant and flavorful.

To lighten up the recipe, consider using plain Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or sour cream for a tangy twist. If cotija cheese is not available, crumbled feta cheese can be a suitable replacement. Additionally, fresh corn can be used in place of frozen corn; just ensure it is fully drained and dried before cooking. This versatile dish can complement various meals, such as tacos, grilled meats, enchiladas, salads, or even loaded baked potatoes. Encourage customization by offering lime wedges and chili powder for guests to adjust the flavors to their liking, making it a hit at gatherings and events.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version of this Mexican street corn, you can swap out mayonnaise and sour cream with plain Greek yogurt. This substitution will maintain the creamy texture while offering a tangy twist to the dish. It’s a great way to cut down on the overall calorie content without compromising on flavor.

If you can’t find cotija cheese, queso fresco makes for a suitable alternative. Both cheeses offer a crumbly texture and mild flavor that complements the corn beautifully. Feel free to crumble the queso fresco by hand to achieve a similar consistency to cotija cheese. This swap allows you to still enjoy the authentic taste of Mexican street corn even without the original cheese.

Fresh corn can be used instead of frozen corn for a slightly sweeter taste and a firmer bite. Boil the fresh corn until tender before incorporating it into the recipe. This substitution enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish and provides a more vibrant corn taste. Consider using fresh corn during the late summer months for an extra juicy and flavorful twist to your Mexican street corn.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this flavorful Mexican street corn in individual cups for a stylish and convenient presentation at your next gathering. Simply layer the creamy corn mixture with crumbled cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, a squeeze of lime, and fresh cilantro on top. Your guests will love customizing their cups with extra lime and spice to suit their taste preferences.

For a fun twist, turn this Mexican street corn into a loaded baked potato bar! Set out baked potatoes and top them with the elote mixture, additional cotija cheese, cilantro, and a drizzle of sriracha sauce. It’s a creative and satisfying way to enjoy the bold flavors of street corn in a new and unexpected format.

FAQs for Authentic Mexican Street Corn Recipe

Can I use queso fresco instead of cotija cheese in this recipe?

Yes, queso fresco can be used as a substitute for cotija cheese in this recipe. It offers a similar crumbly texture and a mild flavor that complements the dish well.

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen corn?

Absolutely! Fresh corn can be boiled until tender and then used as a substitute for frozen corn in this recipe. It will provide a slightly sweeter taste and a firmer bite for a different texture.

Is Greek yogurt a suitable replacement for mayonnaise in this recipe?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter and tangier alternative to replace mayonnaise in this recipe. It helps maintain the creamy texture while adding a different flavor profile.

How can I adjust the spiciness of this Mexican street corn dish?

You can adjust the spiciness of the dish by varying the amount of sriracha sauce and chili powder added. Tailor the spiciness to your personal preference by adding more or less of these ingredients.

Conclusion

Incorporating the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn into your kitchen is a delightful culinary journey. The balance of sweet, smoky, tangy, and spicy notes in this Mexican Street Corn Must Try recipe is sure to elevate your dining experience with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a flavorful snack, this dish is bound to impress.

With its versatility and crowd-pleasing appeal, Mexican street corn is a must-have in your recipe collection. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations and toppings to suit your preferences. Elevate your next meal by serving this delectable street corn alongside your favorite dishes, and watch as your guests delight in customizing their bowls with lime, cilantro, and spices. Embrace the flavors of the streets of Mexico in your own home with this irresistible Mexican Street Corn Must Try recipe.

Authentic Mexican Street Corn Recipe

Creamy, tangy Mexican street corn with a kick of sriracha, crumbled cotija cheese, and zesty lime – a fiesta of flavors in each bite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 min

Cook Time5 min

Total Time15 min

CuisineMexican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (Serves 4)

Ingredients

Main

• Chili powder, to taste
• Lime salt, optional, to taste
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 pound frozen corn
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, to taste
• 1/2 cup cotija cheese or queso fresco, crumbled
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 1/2 teaspoon sriracha sauce, or to taste
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• Kosher salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare Corn Base: In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Stir in granulated sugar until dissolved.
2. Simmer Corn: Place frozen corn in the boiling water, cover with a lid, and simmer over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes until kernels are heated through and tender.
3. Prepare Creamy Sauce: While the corn is cooking, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, sriracha, kosher salt, and lime salt in a bowl until smooth.
4. Drain and Cool Corn: Thoroughly drain the cooked corn and return it to the saucepan. Let it cool for about 3 minutes.
5. Mix Corn with Sauce: Gently combine the creamy sriracha mixture with the warm corn until well coated.
6. Assemble and Garnish: Evenly distribute the dressed corn into four serving cups. Sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, a pinch of chili powder, and a lime wedge. Serve promptly.