Elotes (Mexican Corn in a Cup)
Elotes (Mexican Corn in a Cup) is a creamy, smoky, and slightly spicy snack made with cooked corn kernels mixed with mayonnaise or crema, chili powder, cotija cheese, lime juice, and seasonings. It is fast, versatile, and loved by both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise or Mexican crema
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat corn in a skillet with melted butter for 5 minutes until warm.
- Transfer hot corn into serving cups.
- Stir in mayonnaise or crema until creamy.
- Add lime juice, salt, chili powder, and paprika. Mix well.
- Top with cotija cheese and fresh cilantro.
- Add extra chili powder to taste and serve warm.
Notes
- Serve warm for best flavor.
- Use crema mexicana for authentic taste.
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Try canned fire-roasted corn for smoky depth.
- Prepare ingredients separately for self-serve parties.