Mexican Corn on the Cob: A Zesty Fiesta in Every Bite
Summer just wouldn't be the same without the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn! This recipe brings that unforgettable taste right to your table. Forget bland corn – prepare for a flavor explosion that'll have you craving more. This recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner cooks, and is highly customizable to your spice preferences. Get ready for the ultimate summer side dish!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is designed to be flexible; feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs and taste.
- Corn on the Cob: 4 ears of fresh corn, shucked. Frozen corn works in a pinch, but fresh is always best!
- Mayonnaise: ½ cup (or to taste – Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative!)
- Cotija Cheese: ½ cup, crumbled. (Queso fresco is a good substitute if cotija isn't available.)
- Chili Powder: 1 tablespoon (adjust to your spice level!)
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon (for a warm, earthy flavor)
- Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed is key!)
- Cilantro: ¼ cup, chopped (for freshness and vibrant color)
- Chipotle Powder: ½ teaspoon (optional, for a smoky kick)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Instructions: Grilling for Maximum Flavor
For the best flavor, we recommend grilling your corn:
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Grill the Corn: Place the corn on the cob directly on the grill grates. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until kernels are tender and slightly charred.
- Make the Magic Sauce: While the corn is grilling, combine the mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, cumin, lime juice, cilantro, chipotle powder (if using), salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Coat and Enjoy: Once the corn is grilled, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. Generously spread the delicious sauce over each cob. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors!
Alternative Cooking Methods:
Don't have a grill? No problem! You can also cook your corn using these methods:
- Boiling: Boil the corn in salted water for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
- Microwaving: Microwave the corn in a microwave-safe dish with a little water for 3-5 minutes, or until tender.
Tips for the Perfect Mexican Corn:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different cheeses, herbs, or spices to personalize your corn. Chopped red onion adds a nice crunch!
- Make it ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Serve with: This Mexican corn is the perfect accompaniment to tacos, grilled chicken, or fish. It also makes a fantastic stand-alone snack!
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