Are you ready for a flavor explosion that's both incredibly easy and unbelievably delicious? Then get ready to dive into the world of Elote Corn in a Cup! This Mexican street food classic gets a fun, portable makeover, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a vibrant appetizer, or even a satisfying snack. Forget messy cobs – this recipe delivers all the creamy, cheesy, spicy goodness in a convenient, edible cup. It's one of those healthy meals that's surprisingly quick and easy to make, and it’s definitely going to become a new favorite in your homemade cooking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of fresh corn, shucked
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or vegan alternative)
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or Parmesan cheese)
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Grill or Boil the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. If grilling, cook the corn, turning occasionally, until kernels are tender and slightly charred (about 8-10 minutes). If boiling, cook for 5-7 minutes, until tender. Let the corn cool slightly.
-
Cut the Corn Kernels: Once cool enough to handle, cut the kernels off the cob. You can use a sharp knife to do this efficiently.
-
Prepare the Elote Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, lime juice, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a creamy, flavorful sauce.
-
Combine and Serve: Add the corn kernels to the bowl with the sauce and gently toss to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Spoon the Elote mixture into small cups or ramekins. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro and a lime wedge.
Cooking Tips for the Best Elote:
- For extra smoky flavor: Grill the corn until it's nicely charred. The smoky char adds a delicious depth of flavor to the Elote.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level. If you prefer a milder Elote, omit it altogether.
- Cheese Options: Cotija cheese is traditional, but Parmesan cheese works as a great substitute, providing a similar salty, sharp flavor.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the Elote mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This makes it a perfect make-ahead appetizer for parties or gatherings.
Variations:
- Add some crunch: Toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) or crushed tortilla chips add a wonderful textural element to your Elote.
- Sweet and Spicy: A touch of honey or agave nectar adds a subtle sweetness that balances the spice beautifully.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Use a vegan mayonnaise and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This Elote Corn in a Cup recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas, perfect for busy weeknights. The delicious combination of sweet corn, creamy mayo, and spicy chili powder makes for an irresistible treat. It's a simple yet impressive dish that's sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy your fiesta!