Mexican Street Corn Recipe

Corn: Fresh ears of corn are the star of this dish, providing a sweet and juicy base that is enhanced by grilling.

Mayonnaise: This creamy condiment helps create a rich and smooth coating for the corn, adding a subtle tang.

Sour cream: Combined with mayonnaise, sour cream adds a slight tanginess and creaminess to the topping.

Cotija cheese: A crumbly, salty cheese that adds depth and a savory element to the dish.

Chili powder: Provides a hint of heat and spice, balancing the sweetness of the corn.

Lime: Fresh lime wedges are served alongside to add a zesty, citrusy brightness when squeezed over the corn.

Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note that complements the other flavors beautifully.

To achieve the perfect char on your corn, make sure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the ears on it. Rotate the corn occasionally to ensure even cooking and charring. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the corn that authentic street-style appearance. When mixing the mayonnaise, sour cream, and cotija cheese, ensure the mixture is smooth and well-blended for easy application. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the chili powder before sprinkling it over the corn. This will add a subtle smokiness that complements the creamy topping beautifully.

• corn - Substitute with frozen corn: If fresh corn is unavailable, frozen corn can be used. Thaw and roast it to mimic the charred flavor of grilled corn.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture similar to mayonnaise and adds a tangy flavor while being lower in fat.

• sour cream - Substitute with crema: Crema is a Mexican dairy product similar to sour cream but slightly thinner and less tangy, making it a more authentic choice.

• cotija cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor to cotija cheese, making it a suitable alternative.

• chili powder - Substitute with paprika and cayenne pepper: A mix of paprika for smokiness and cayenne pepper for heat can replicate the flavor profile of chili powder.

• lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon can provide a similar acidic and citrusy flavor to lime if lime is not available.

• cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro for those who dislike its flavor, though it will alter the taste slightly.

• Allow the corn to cool completely after grilling. This ensures that any residual heat doesn't create unwanted moisture, which can affect texture and flavor.

• Wrap each ear of corn individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This helps to maintain its charred flavor and prevents it from drying out.

• Place the wrapped corn in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This extra layer of protection keeps the corn fresh and prevents it from absorbing any odors from the refrigerator.

• Store the corn in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal taste, consume it sooner rather than later.

• If you wish to freeze the corn, first remove the cotija cheese mixture by gently scraping it off with a knife. This prevents the cheese from becoming grainy upon thawing.

• Once the corn is clean, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps to prevent freezer burn.

• Place the wrapped corn in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the bag with the date to keep track of its freshness.

• Freeze the corn for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the corn on a baking sheet and warm it for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

• Once reheated, you can reapply the mayonnaise and sour cream mixture, sprinkle with chili powder and cilantro, and serve with fresh lime wedges for that authentic street corn experience.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each ear of corn in aluminum foil to keep it moist. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This method ensures the corn remains juicy and the flavors meld beautifully.

• Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a touch of olive oil or butter to the pan, then place the corn in the skillet. Turn occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. This method adds a slight crispiness to the corn.

• If you're in a hurry, the microwave is your friend. Wrap each corn ear in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. Check and add more time if needed. This keeps the corn moist and warm.

• For a smoky touch, reheat on a grill. Preheat the grill to medium heat, then place the corn directly on the grates. Turn occasionally for about 5 minutes until heated through. This method revives the charred flavor.

• For a creamy twist, scrape the corn off the cob and mix with a bit more mayonnaise and sour cream. Heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed. This creates a delightful corn salad.

• Grill: Used to cook the corn, providing a charred and smoky flavor that is characteristic of Mexican street corn.

• Tongs: Essential for turning the corn on the grill to ensure even cooking and charring on all sides.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and cotija cheese into a creamy mixture for brushing onto the corn.

• Basting brush: Handy for applying the creamy mixture evenly onto the grilled corn.

• Knife: Useful for chopping the cilantro and cutting the lime into wedges.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping cilantro and cutting lime wedges.

Pre-grill the corn: Grill corn ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat on the grill or stovetop when ready to serve.

Mix in advance: Prepare the mayonnaise, sour cream, and cotija cheese mixture a day before. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Chop once, use twice: Chop extra cilantro and store it for future recipes. It saves time for this and other dishes.

Use pre-crumbled cheese: Buy pre-crumbled cotija cheese to skip the crumbling step.

Lime juice shortcut: Use bottled lime juice if you’re in a rush, though fresh is best.