Elotes Asados, or grilled Mexican street corn, is a beloved snack found throughout Mexico. This recipe guides you through grilling corn in its husks to achieve a smoky sweetness, complemented by a creamy, tangy topping and salty cheese.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 4 ears corn, husks and silks intact
• 1/4 cup Mexican crema or crème fraîche
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice, plus lime wedges for serving
• 2 ounces Cotija or Parmesan cheese, grated
• Kosher salt

Directions

1. Prepare a grill for medium-high heat.
2. Place the corn, with husks and silks intact, directly on the grill grate over direct heat. Cover the grill and cook, rotating the corn every 5 minutes, until the husks are evenly charred, about 15 minutes total.
3. Alternatively, for stovetop cooking, heat a large cast-iron pan or grill over medium-high heat until very hot and smoking, approximately 5 minutes. Working in batches, place the corn in their husks on the hot pan. Cover with a lid or another skillet. Cook, rotating every 5 minutes, until the husks are evenly charred, about 20 minutes total.
4. While the corn is cooking, combine the crema, mayonnaise, and lime juice in a medium bowl until smooth. If needed, thin the mixture with 1 tablespoon of water. Cover and chill until ready to serve.
5. Once the corn is cooked, pull back the husks and silks, leaving the husks attached at the base. Using a pastry brush or butter knife, spread the crema mixture evenly over the corn.
6. Transfer the corn to a serving platter. Generously sprinkle grated Cotija or Parmesan cheese over all sides of the corn and season with kosher salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the corn.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 270 per serving
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 7g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 28mg
• Sodium: 351mg

Origins of Elotes Asados

Elotes Asados, or grilled Mexican street corn, has deep roots in Mexican culinary traditions. Corn has been a staple crop in Mexico for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations like the Aztecs and Mayans. These cultures relied heavily on maize, incorporating it into their daily diets in various forms, including tamales, tortillas, and, of course, grilled corn. Over time, grilling corn became a popular cooking method, allowing the natural sweetness of the kernels to develop a rich, smoky flavor. Today, elotes are enjoyed throughout Mexico, from bustling city streets to rural villages, often sold by street vendors who expertly grill and dress the corn with delicious toppings.

Why Grilling Enhances Flavor

Grilling corn over an open flame intensifies its natural sweetness while adding a slight smokiness that enhances its overall taste. The heat causes the sugars in the kernels to caramelize, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Unlike boiling or steaming, which can sometimes dilute the corn’s flavor, grilling locks in moisture and enhances texture. The slightly charred bits add depth to the dish, making it far more flavorful than corn cooked through other methods. This technique has made grilled corn a favorite at summer barbecues and street food stands.

The Role of Mexican Crema in Elotes Asados

Mexican crema is one of the key ingredients that make elotes asados truly special. This tangy, slightly thick cream is similar to sour cream but has a milder flavor and silkier consistency. It helps to balance the smokiness of the grilled corn while adding a rich, creamy texture. Unlike traditional sour cream, Mexican crema has a slightly higher fat content, which allows it to coat the corn more evenly without overpowering the other ingredients. Its subtle tanginess enhances the overall flavor profile, making every bite more delicious.

Why Mayonnaise is Used in Elotes Asados

Although mayonnaise might not seem like an obvious choice for corn, it plays a crucial role in elotes asados. The creamy texture helps bind the cheese and spices to the corn, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. It also adds a slight tang and richness that complement the sweetness of the corn. Additionally, mayonnaise prevents the cheese from falling off and helps the seasonings adhere more effectively. This combination has become a signature feature of Mexican street corn, elevating it from a simple grilled vegetable to a gourmet-style dish.

The Importance of Lime Juice

Lime juice is another essential component of elotes asados, adding a burst of acidity that brightens the flavors of the dish. The citrusy tang of fresh lime juice cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise and crema, balancing the overall taste. In Mexican cuisine, lime is frequently used to enhance flavors and add a refreshing contrast to spicy or creamy dishes. When squeezed over hot grilled corn, it creates a zesty, mouthwatering effect that makes elotes incredibly satisfying.

How Cotija Cheese Elevates the Dish

Cotija cheese is a traditional Mexican cheese that plays a key role in elotes asados. It has a crumbly texture and a salty, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the corn and the richness of the toppings. Often compared to Parmesan, Cotija has a sharp, savory taste that enhances the overall depth of the dish. The cheese clings to the creamy mixture, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. If Cotija is not available, Parmesan or feta can be used as substitutes, but they will slightly alter the authentic taste.

How to Achieve the Perfect Char

Getting the perfect char on elotes asados requires a balance of heat and timing. The best method is to grill the corn over medium-high heat, turning it frequently to ensure even charring. Leaving the husks on while grilling can help retain moisture while still allowing the kernels to develop a smoky, slightly crispy exterior. For an extra layer of flavor, some chefs recommend brushing the corn with a little oil before grilling, which helps achieve a more uniform char.

Elotes Asados vs. Esquites

Elotes asados and esquites are two popular Mexican street food variations of corn, but they differ in presentation. While elotes asados are served whole on the cob, esquites are essentially a deconstructed version, where the corn kernels are removed from the cob and served in a cup. Esquites are typically prepared with the same toppings—crema, mayonnaise, cheese, lime, and chili powder—but are mixed together for a spoonable dish. Both versions offer the same delicious flavors, but elotes asados provide a more hands-on eating experience.

Pairing Elotes Asados with Other Dishes

Elotes asados pair well with a variety of Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes. They make a great side dish for tacos, grilled meats, or traditional Mexican barbecue. The smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors complement spicy dishes like carne asada or chorizo, while also balancing out the richness of slow-cooked meats. For a refreshing contrast, they can be served alongside fresh guacamole, pico de gallo, or a crisp cucumber salad.

Health Benefits of Corn

Corn is packed with essential nutrients, making elotes asados a nutritious treat. It is a good source of fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health. Corn also contains important vitamins like B-complex vitamins, which help support energy production and brain function. Additionally, corn is rich in antioxidants, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health. While elotes asados do contain rich toppings, they can still be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Spicy Variations of Elotes Asados

For those who love spice, elotes asados can be customized with different chili seasonings. Some popular choices include Tajín, a blend of chili powder, lime, and salt, or cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Some recipes also include hot sauce, such as Valentina or Cholula, for a bold, spicy flavor. Adding these elements enhances the heat while complementing the sweetness of the corn and the tanginess of the lime.

Street Food Culture in Mexico

Elotes asados are a staple of Mexican street food culture, often sold by vendors on street corners, in markets, and at festivals. The sound of sizzling corn and the enticing aroma of grilled husks fill the air as vendors prepare each elote to order. The dish is commonly eaten as a snack or light meal, enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a beloved part of Mexican culinary heritage and represents the communal joy of street food dining.

How Elotes Asados Became Popular in the U.S.

Over the years, elotes asados have gained popularity beyond Mexico, particularly in the United States. Mexican food trucks, taquerias, and restaurants now feature elotes on their menus, bringing the flavors of authentic street corn to a wider audience. The rise of social media and food trends has further contributed to its popularity, with food lovers sharing their own variations and creative takes on this classic dish.

Conclusion

Elotes asados are more than just grilled corn—they are a flavorful, texturally rich, and culturally significant dish that embodies the essence of Mexican street food. With their smoky, creamy, tangy, and savory profile, they offer a delightful eating experience that appeals to a wide range of palates. Whether enjoyed as a side dish at a barbecue, a street food snack, or part of a larger Mexican meal, elotes asados continue to be a favorite for food lovers everywhere.