How to Make a Traditional Mexican Grilled Corn with Chili and Lime

If you're looking for a delicious and easy way to enjoy summer flavors, traditional Mexican grilled corn, also known as Elote, is a fantastic choice. This iconic street food features juicy corn on the cob, grilled to perfection and slathered with a delightful combination of chili, lime, and mayonnaise. Follow these simple steps to make your own mouthwatering Mexican grilled corn at home!

Ingredients You'll Need

4 ears of fresh corn
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
1-2 tablespoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
2 limes, cut into wedges
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Corn

Start by shucking the corn. Remove the husks and silk completely from each ear of corn. Once cleaned, rinse them under cold water to remove any remaining debris. This preparation ensures a clean grilling surface and enhances the corn's flavor.

2. Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using charcoal, wait until the coals are covered with white ash. For gas grills, allow it to heat for about 10 minutes. A hot grill will give your corn that perfect char.

3. Grilling the Corn

Place the corn directly on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and lightly charred. Keep an eye on the corn to prevent burning. The goal is to achieve a nice golden-brown color on all sides.

4. Preparing the Toppings

While the corn is grilling, prepare your toppings. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor. Set aside the Cotija cheese and chili powder.

5. Dressing the Corn

Once the corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it cool for a minute. Using a brush or a spatula, generously spread the mayonnaise mixture over the hot corn. Then, sprinkle the Cotija cheese and chili powder evenly over each cob. For an extra kick, feel free to add more chili powder according to your taste.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn before serving for an added burst of flavor. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your authentic Mexican grilled corn with chili and lime!

Tips for the Best Mexican Grilled Corn

For a smoky flavor, soak the corn in water for 30 minutes before grilling. This will help keep it moist and add depth to the taste.
Experiment with different cheese options if Cotija is not available – Feta or Parmesan can also work well.
For a healthier version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. It will keep the same creamy texture with less fat.

Enjoy making this traditional Mexican dish at home. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or just a delicious snack to enjoy any time of the year!