When it comes to street food that packs a punch of flavor, elote is an undeniable star. Originating from Mexico, this beloved dish transforms grilled corn into a savory-sweet treat that's creamy, tangy, and completely addictive. While traditional elote is brushed with mayonnaise, coated in cheese, and sprinkled with chili powder, this version kicks things up a notch with a spicy Tajín mayo. The result? A mouthwatering dish that's smoky, zesty, and just the right amount of spicy, making it a must-try for food lovers everywhere.Tajín, the iconic seasoning blend of chili, lime, and salt, is the secret weapon of this recipe. It complements the sweetness of grilled corn while balancing the richness of the mayo and cheese. Whether you're hosting a BBQ, having a taco night, or enjoying a summer picnic, this elote recipe will bring vibrant flavors to your plate.
Ingredients
To make this irresistible elote, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, husks removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Tajín seasoning (adjust based on your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta, if unavailable)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to whip up your elote with spicy Tajín mayo:
Step 1: Prep the Corn
Brush each ear of corn with olive oil or melted butter. This will ensure they grill up beautifully with a golden char. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat for direct grilling.
Step 2: Grill the Corn
Place the corn on the grill, turning occasionally with tongs. Cook for about 10–12 minutes, or until the kernels are tender and have a nice char. Don’t rush this step! The smoky, roasted flavor is what makes elote so special. Once done, transfer the grilled corn to a serving platter.
Step 3: Make the Spicy Tajín Mayo
While the corn grills, mix the mayonnaise, Tajín, lime juice, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and well blended. This creamy, tangy mixture is the magic sauce that will take your elote to the next level.
Step 4: Assemble the Elote
Using a spoon or a brush, generously coat each ear of corn with the Tajín mayo mixture. Be sure to cover every kernel for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Top with Cotija and Garnish
Sprinkle the coated corn with crumbled cotija cheese, letting it stick to the mayo. Add a pop of freshness by garnishing with cilantro if you like. Serve with lime wedges on the side so your guests can squeeze on extra citrusy goodness.
Why Tajín is the Game-Changer
Tajín adds a trifecta of flavors to this dish. Its chili powder delivers a warm, smoky heat without overpowering, while the lime brings brightness and the salt enhances every bite. This seasoning blend transforms the mayo from a simple creamy addition into a bold and irresistible spread. Combined with the grilled sweetness of corn and the salty tang of cotija cheese, Tajín makes every mouthful an explosion of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Elote is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a full meal, serve it alongside grilled meats like carne asada, chicken skewers, or shrimp tacos. You can also slice the kernels off the cob and add them to a salad or rice bowl for a fun twist. Don’t forget an ice-cold drink to cool off the spice! Classic choices include agua fresca, beer, or a margarita.
Final Thoughts
Elote with spicy Tajín mayo takes a traditional Mexican street food favorite and gives it a flavorful upgrade. It’s easy to make, fun to eat, and packed with layers of smoky, tangy, and zesty goodness. Whether you're cooking up a feast for friends or treating yourself, this is a recipe you’ll want to come back to again and again.
Give it a try, and watch how quickly it becomes the star of your table! Enjoy!
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