Elotes (Mexican Corn in a Cup): A Street Food Favourite

Elotes, also known as Mexican Corn in a Cup or Esquites, is a popular street food variation of the classic Mexican corn on the cob. Instead of serving corn whole, the kernels are cut off and mixed in a cup with mayonnaise, crema, lime juice, chili powder, and crumbled Cotija cheese. This makes it easier to eat while still keeping the bold and delicious flavours of traditional Elote.

Elotes :

Elotes in a cup are flavourful, portable, and customizable. They combine smoky, tangy, creamy, and spicy notes in every spoonful. Perfect for parties or snacks, this dish is loved by people of all ages.

History :

Corn has been central to Mexican culture for thousands of years. Street vendors, known as eloteros, made Elote famous across Mexico. To make it more portable, they began serving it in cups—creating Esquites, a version enjoyed at fairs, family gatherings, and celebrations.

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Elotes

Shruthi

Elotes in a Cup, also known as Esquites, is a Mexican street food classic that transforms grilled or boiled corn kernels into a creamy, cheesy, and tangy snack. Served in a cup for convenience, it is mixed with mayonnaise, crema, lime juice, Cotija cheese, and chili powder. This portable dish delivers all the delicious flavors of traditional Elote with added ease of eating.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 23 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

  

• Fresh corn kernels (grilled, boiled, or roasted)
• Mayonnaise
• Mexican crema or sour cream
• Cotija cheese (crumbled)
• Chili powder or Tajin seasoning
• Fresh lime juice
• Butter (optional, for richness)
• Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

Instructions

 

• Cook the corn kernels until tender (grill, boil, or roast).
• Place hot corn in a cup.
• Mix in mayonnaise, crema, and butter.
• Sprinkle with Cotija cheese and chili powder.
• Squeeze fresh lime juice on top.
• Garnish with cilantro and serve warm.

Notes

• Fresh sweet corn gives the best flavor and texture.
• Substitute sour cream if Mexican crema is not available.
• Parmesan cheese can be used if Cotija is hard to find.
• Adjust chili powder or Tajín seasoning to match your spice level.
• Best served immediately while warm and freshly grilled.

 

Keyword chili lime corn, easy elotes recipe, Elotes in a cup, Esquites recipe, Mexican corn snack, Mexican corn with cheese, Mexican street food

Tips for the Best Elotes in a Cup:

• Use freshly grilled corn for the best smoky flavor.

• Add hot sauce for extra spice.

• If Cotija cheese is unavailable, Parmesan is a good substitute.

• Layer the toppings for a richer taste experience.

FAQs for Elotes :

Q: What is the difference between Elote and Esquites?
Elote is corn served on the cob, while Esquites (Elotes in a Cup) is corn kernels served in a cup with toppings.

Q: Can I make Elotes in a Cup with frozen corn?
Yes, frozen corn works well—just thaw and cook before adding toppings.

Q: What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Cotija cheese is authentic, but Parmesan or feta can be used as substitutes.

Q: How spicy is Elotes in a Cup?
It depends on how much chili powder or hot sauce you use. You can make it mild or extra spicy.

Q: Can Elotes in a Cup be made in advance?
It tastes best fresh, but you can cook the corn ahead and add toppings just before serving.

Q: What dishes pair well with Elotes in a Cup?
They pair beautifully with tacos, grilled meats, fajitas, or enjoyed alone as a snack.

Conclusion:

Elotes in a Cup is a flavourful, convenient twist on traditional Mexican street corn. Creamy, tangy, spicy, and cheesy, it’s the ultimate comfort snack that captures the vibrant flavours of Mexico in every spoonful.