Ingredients:
°6 ears of fresh sweet corn
°6 tsp of mayonnaise
°½ t garlic powder
°1 c of crumbled cheese
°6 tablespoons of chopped fresh coriander
°1 teaspoon hot pepper powder
°2 square lemons
+to prepare
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place the corn in husks directly on the oven rack. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until fork-tipped. While corn is cooking, combine garlic powder and mayonnaise in a small bowl. When corn is soft, brush it with garlic mayonnaise. Rolling in cotija cheese. Sprinkle coriander powder and chili. Squeeze with fresh lemon juice if desired
Here are variations and tips for your elote (Mexican-style street corn) recipe:
Variations
- Cheese Options
- Substitute cotija cheese with queso fresco, feta, or Parmesan if cotija isn’t available.
- Spice Adjustments
- Use smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or Tajín seasoning instead of chili powder for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust spice levels to taste or mix chili powder with a pinch of cumin for an earthy twist.
- Cooking Methods
- Grill: Instead of baking, grill the corn over medium-high heat, turning frequently until charred for a smoky flavor.
- Stovetop: If short on time, boil the corn for 8-10 minutes, then finish with toppings.
- Flavor Twists
- Add a drizzle of hot sauce, sriracha, or chipotle sauce for extra heat.
- Mix mayonnaise with a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt for tanginess.
- Toppings
- Add crispy bacon bits, crushed tortilla chips, or toasted pumpkin seeds for extra texture.
- Sprinkle fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a burst of freshness.
- Corn Variations
- Use canned or frozen corn kernels to make an “elote salad.” Toss cooked kernels with the same toppings in a bowl.
- Try mini corn cobs for a party-friendly appetizer.
Tips
- Corn Selection
- Use the freshest sweet corn you can find for the juiciest, most flavorful results.
- Mayo Application
- Use a pastry brush or back of a spoon for an even coating of garlic mayo.
- Perfect Cheese Coating
- Roll the corn in the cheese immediately after brushing with mayo to ensure it sticks well.
- Preheat and Timing
- Ensure the oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
- Check corn after 30 minutes to avoid overcooking; the kernels should be tender but not mushy.
- Lemon and Lime
- For extra zing, serve with lime wedges instead of lemon. Lime pairs beautifully with the other flavors.
- Make-Ahead Tip
- Pre-cook the corn and keep it warm in foil until ready to add toppings and serve.
Would you like suggestions for side dishes or drink pairings to complement this dish?