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Flavorful Elote in a Cup Recipe Easy Homemade Mexican Street Corn with Cotija and Tajin

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A quick and easy Mexican street corn snack served in a cup, featuring fresh corn kernels coated in a creamy, tangy mayo-lime sauce, crumbled Cotija cheese, and smoky Tajin seasoning.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 600g) or thawed frozen corn
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (120ml), or Greek yogurt for a lighter version
  • 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (60g), or feta as a substitute
  • 2 teaspoons Tajin seasoning
  • Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (30g)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: pinch or two of chipotle powder or cayenne for extra heat

Instructions

  1. Prepare the corn: Cut kernels off fresh corn cobs using a sharp knife to get about 4 cups (600g). If using frozen corn, thaw completely and drain excess water. (5 minutes)
  2. Warm the corn and butter: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30 seconds. Add corn kernels and stir to coat. Microwave for another 1-2 minutes to warm through, or warm corn and butter in a skillet over medium heat until hot and slightly toasted. (3-5 minutes)
  3. Mix the sauce: In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and creamy. (2 minutes)
  4. Combine corn and sauce: Add the warm buttered corn to the mayo mixture and stir to coat every kernel evenly. (2 minutes)
  5. Add cheese and seasoning: Fold in 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese and sprinkle 2 teaspoons Tajin seasoning over the mixture. Add chipotle powder or cayenne if desired. Mix gently to combine without breaking up the cheese too much. (2 minutes)
  6. Adjust and garnish: Taste and add more salt or lime juice if needed. Stir in chopped cilantro if using. (1 minute)
  7. Serve: Spoon the elote into individual cups or small bowls. Sprinkle extra Cotija and Tajin on top for presentation and extra kick. Enjoy immediately. (1 minute)

Notes

Use fresh corn for best texture; thaw and drain frozen corn well to avoid watery elote. Toast corn in a skillet or grill pan for smoky flavor. Mix cheese in gently to keep texture. Prepare components separately if making ahead to avoid sogginess. Adjust heat with chipotle or cayenne powder as desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: elote, Mexican street corn, cotija cheese, Tajin, corn in a cup, easy Mexican recipe, street food, snack, quick recipe

Find it online: https://perkypan.com/flavorful-elote-in-a-cup-recipe-easy-homemade-mexican-street-corn-with-cotija-and-tajin/