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Authentic Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Authentic Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

This classic Mexican snack features juicy corn roasted in the husk for maximum tenderness and flavor.
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Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 ears fresh sweet corn
  • 6 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup Cotija cheese crumbled
  • 6 tablespoons fresh cilantro roughly chopped
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
  • 2 limes quartered

Equipment

  • Oven or grill
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Pastry brush or spoon
  • Tongs or heat safe gloves
  • Serving platter

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Place the corn ears still in their husks directly on the center oven rack.
  3. Bake the corn for 35 to 40 minutes or until the kernels are fork tender.
  4. While the corn is baking combine the mayonnaise and garlic powder in a small mixing bowl.
  5. Carefully remove the hot corn from the oven and peel back or remove the husks.
  6. Brush each warm ear of corn generously with the prepared garlic mayonnaise mixture.
  7. Roll each mayo coated cob in the crumbled Cotija cheese until evenly covered.
  8. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro and chipotle chili powder over the cheese layer.
  9. Serve the elote immediately while hot with lime quarters on the side for squeezing.

Notes

Keeping the husks on during the baking process traps moisture to ensure the corn stays succulent and sweet.
Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential as it provides a bright citrus punch that balances the rich mayo and salty cheese.
If you cannot find Cotija cheese you can substitute it with crumbled feta or finely grated Parmesan for a similar texture.
For a smokier finish you can grill the corn instead of baking it until the kernels are slightly charred.
Would you like me to find a recipe for a grilled lime chicken that would pair perfectly with this street corn?