Grilled to Perfection: The Ultimate Guide to Making Delicious Street Corn

Street corn, also known as elotes, is a popular Mexican street food that has gained worldwide recognition for its simplicity, flavor, and versatility. This mouth-watering dish is made from grilled corn on the cob slathered with a combination of mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. In this article, we will delve into the world of street corn and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious dish at home.

History of Street Corn

Street corn has its roots in Mexican cuisine, where it is known as elotes. The word “elotes” is derived from the Nahuatl language, which was spoken by the Aztecs. Elotes were a staple food in Mexico, where they were grilled over an open flame and served with a sprinkle of cotija cheese, chili powder, and a squeeze of lime juice.

The popularity of street corn spread rapidly throughout the United States, where it became a staple at farmers’ markets, food festivals, and backyard barbecues. Today, street corn is enjoyed not only in Mexico and the United States but also in many other countries around the world.

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

To make delicious street corn, you will need the following ingredients and equipment:

Ingredients:

• 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
• 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup of Mexican crema or sour cream
• 1/2 cup of grated cotija cheese
• 1 tablespoon of chili powder
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
• 2 limes, cut into wedges
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Equipment:

• Grill or grill pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Bowl

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Street Corn

Making street corn is a relatively simple process that requires some basic cooking skills and attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making delicious street corn:

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using a gas grill, make sure to preheat it for at least 10-15 minutes before grilling the corn. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure to light the charcoal and let it burn until it’s covered in a layer of ash.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

Place the corn on the grill and rotate it every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking. Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, or until it’s lightly charred and tender.

Step 3: Slather the Corn with Mayonnaise and Crema

Once the corn is grilled, slather it with a combination of mayonnaise and crema. You can use a brush or a spoon to apply the mayonnaise and crema evenly.

Step 4: Sprinkle the Corn with Cotija Cheese and Chili Powder

Sprinkle the corn with grated cotija cheese and chili powder. You can also add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Step 5: Squeeze the Lime Juice

Squeeze a sliver of lime juice over the corn to add a burst of citrus flavor.

Step 6: Garnish with Cilantro

Garnish the corn with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.

Variations of Street Corn

While traditional street corn is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with different variations to give it your own twist. Here are a few ideas:

Grilled Corn with Garlic Butter

Mix some minced garlic with melted butter and brush it over the corn before grilling. This will give the corn a rich and savory flavor.

Street Corn with Diced Tomatoes

Top the corn with diced tomatoes and a sprinkle of queso fresco for a fresh and tangy flavor.

Spicy Street Corn

Add some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the mayonnaise and crema for an extra kick of heat.

Tips and Tricks for Making Perfect Street Corn

Here are some tips and tricks to help you make perfect street corn:

Use Fresh Corn

Fresh corn is essential for making delicious street corn. Look for corn that’s in season and has a slightly sweet aroma.

Don’t Over-Grill the Corn

Grill the corn until it’s lightly charred and tender. Over-grilling the corn can make it dry and tough.

Use High-Quality Mayonnaise and Crema

Use high-quality mayonnaise and crema to give the corn a rich and creamy flavor.

Experiment with Different Cheeses

Experiment with different cheeses, such as queso fresco or feta cheese, to give the corn a unique flavor.

Conclusion

Street corn is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich and creamy flavor, it’s a great side dish for grilled meats, vegetables, and salads. Whether you’re a foodie or a busy parent, making street corn is a relatively simple process that requires some basic cooking skills and attention to detail. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the delicious flavor of street corn for yourself.

By following these simple steps and tips, you can make delicious street corn that’s sure to impress your family and friends. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the delicious flavor of street corn for yourself.

What is street corn and how is it different from regular corn on the cob?

Street corn, also known as elote, is a popular Mexican street food that is made by grilling corn on the cob and slathering it with a combination of ingredients such as mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. The main difference between street corn and regular corn on the cob is the way it is prepared and seasoned. While regular corn on the cob is often boiled or steamed and served with butter and salt, street corn is grilled to give it a smoky flavor and then topped with a variety of flavorful ingredients.

The combination of the charred, slightly sweet corn and the tangy, spicy toppings is what sets street corn apart from regular corn on the cob. Street corn is also often served as a snack or side dish, whereas regular corn on the cob is often served as a main course. Overall, street corn is a unique and delicious twist on traditional corn on the cob.

What type of corn is best for making street corn?

The best type of corn for making street corn is sweet corn, specifically varieties that are high in moisture and have a tender, slightly sweet flavor. Some popular varieties of sweet corn that are well-suited for making street corn include Silver Queen, Golden Bantam, and Honey & Cream. These varieties have a high sugar content, which helps to caramelize the corn when it is grilled, giving it a rich, slightly sweet flavor.

It’s also important to choose corn that is fresh and in season, as this will help to ensure that the corn is at its peak flavor and texture. Avoid using old or dried-out corn, as this can be tough and flavorless. If you can’t find fresh corn, you can also use frozen or canned corn as a substitute, but the flavor and texture may not be as good.

How do I grill the corn to get the perfect char?

To get the perfect char on your street corn, you’ll want to grill the corn over medium-high heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking. You can grill the corn either with the husks on or off, depending on your preference. If you grill the corn with the husks on, the husks will help to steam the corn and keep it moist, while also adding a bit of smoky flavor.

If you grill the corn with the husks off, you’ll get a more intense char on the corn, but you’ll need to be careful not to burn it. To prevent burning, you can brush the corn with a bit of oil or butter before grilling, and also rotate the corn frequently to ensure even cooking. You can also use a grill mat or a piece of aluminum foil to help prevent the corn from sticking to the grill.

What are some common toppings for street corn?

Some common toppings for street corn include mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, lime juice, and cilantro. You can also add other toppings such as diced onions, garlic, or diced tomatoes to give the corn extra flavor. The key is to find a combination of toppings that you enjoy and that complement the flavor of the corn.

You can also get creative with your toppings and add other ingredients such as grilled chicken or steak, diced avocado, or sliced radishes. The beauty of street corn is that you can customize it to your taste, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite combination of toppings.

Can I make street corn in the oven instead of on the grill?

Yes, you can make street corn in the oven instead of on the grill. To do this, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the corn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the corn with a bit of oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper, then roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.

While oven-roasted street corn can be delicious, it won’t have the same smoky flavor as grilled street corn. To get a bit of smoky flavor, you can add some smoked paprika or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the corn before roasting. You can also broil the corn for a few minutes to get a bit of char on the outside.

How do I store leftover street corn?

To store leftover street corn, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the corn for up to 3 months, either on or off the cob. To freeze the corn, simply place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer.

When you’re ready to eat the leftover street corn, you can simply thaw it in the refrigerator or reheat it in the oven or on the grill. You can also add some fresh toppings to the corn to give it a bit of extra flavor. Keep in mind that leftover street corn may not be as flavorful as freshly made street corn, so you may need to add some extra seasonings or toppings to give it a bit of extra flavor.

Can I make street corn ahead of time?

Yes, you can make street corn ahead of time, but it’s best to grill the corn just before serving to ensure that it’s at its peak flavor and texture. If you need to make the corn ahead of time, you can grill it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Then, simply reheat the corn in the oven or on the grill before serving.

You can also prepare the toppings ahead of time, such as making the mayonnaise or cotija cheese mixture, and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to assemble the street corn just before serving, as the toppings can make the corn soggy if they’re left on for too long.