If you want to try a tasty, Mexican snack, look no further than Mexican Corn in a Cup, or Esquites. This dish is packed with flavor and is fun to make. You’ll enjoy creamy corn topped with cheese, spices, and more! In this post, I’ll share all the ingredients, steps, and tips you need to create this delicious treat at home. Let’s dive into the world of Esquites!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Lime wedges for garnish
The main star of this dish is fresh corn. You want ears that are sweet and juicy. The mayonnaise and sour cream add creaminess. Lime juice brings a zesty kick. Chili powder and garlic powder give it flavor. Cotija cheese adds a salty touch. Cilantro adds freshness. Together, they make a perfect mix.
Optional Toppings
You can get creative with toppings! Here are some ideas:
– Extra cotija cheese for more flavor
– Sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick
– Avocado slices for creaminess
– Hot sauce for heat
Feel free to mix and match these toppings. They all work well with the corn.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has about:
– Calories: 200
– Protein: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 24g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 3g
This dish is tasty and offers some nutrition too. The corn provides fiber, which is good for digestion. The cheese and sour cream give you calcium. Enjoying this flavorful treat is a fun way to add veggies to your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Overview
To make Mexican Corn in a Cup, gather your ingredients first. You need fresh corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, cotija cheese, and cilantro. This dish takes about 25 minutes total and serves four people.
Detailed Cooking Steps
1. Preheat your grill or a grill pan on medium-high heat.
2. Grill the corn for 10 to 12 minutes. Turn it often. The kernels should get tender and a bit charred.
3. Take the corn off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
4. Use a sharp knife to cut the kernels off the cob. Place the kernels in a mixing bowl.
5. In another bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until smooth.
6. Pour this mixture over the corn kernels. Toss them well to coat.
7. Add in the crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro. Mix gently to distribute evenly.
8. Divide the corn mixture into cups. Top each with extra cotija cheese and cilantro if you like.
9. Serve right away with lime wedges on the side for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Mexican Corn in a Cup makes a fun snack or side dish. You can serve it at parties or family gatherings. It pairs well with tacos or grilled meats. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste!
Tips & Tricks
How to Choose the Best Corn
When picking corn, look for fresh ears. The husks should be bright green and tight. Gently peel back a bit of the husk. Check if the kernels are plump and milky. Sweet corn is best for esquites. Look for kernels that are yellow or bi-colored. The sweeter, the better!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using old corn. It won’t taste sweet and fresh. Don’t skip grilling. Grilling adds a nice char and flavor. Be careful not to overcook the corn. You want it tender but not mushy. Mixing the sauce too early can make corn soggy. Wait until you serve to mix.
Enhancements for Flavor
Want to boost flavor? Add more lime juice for zest. A splash of hot sauce can spice it up. Try adding diced jalapeños for heat. You can also mix in some avocado for creaminess. For a smoky touch, use smoked paprika instead of chili powder. Experiment with toppings like diced tomatoes or radishes.
Variations
Vegetarian Options
Esquites are already vegetarian, but you can add more veggies. Try diced bell peppers or fresh corn salsa. These add crunch and color to your cup. You can also swap the mayonnaise for a plant-based option. This keeps the creamy taste without dairy.
Spicy Esquites
If you love heat, add more chili powder or hot sauce. You can also mix in diced jalapeños for an extra kick. This will make your esquites fiery and fun. Just remember, start small. You can always add more spice later.
Different Cheese Alternatives
Cotija cheese gives great flavor, but other cheeses work too. Feta cheese adds a salty bite, while queso fresco offers a milder taste. If you want a creamier option, use goat cheese. Each cheese brings its own twist to your esquites.
Experiment with these variations to find your favorite way to enjoy Mexican corn in a cup!
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
To store leftovers of Mexican Corn in a Cup, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh for up to three days in the fridge. If you plan to store it, avoid adding lime juice or cilantro until you are ready to eat. This keeps the flavors bright.
Reheating Tips
When you want to enjoy your esquites again, take it out of the fridge. You can reheat it in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water to keep it moist. Stir gently until it’s warm. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to freeze esquites, do it right after making it. Place the corn mixture in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as you can before sealing. This helps prevent freezer burn. It can last about two months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat as mentioned earlier. Enjoy your tasty treat!
FAQs
What is Esquites?
Esquites is a popular Mexican snack made with corn. It features grilled corn kernels mixed with creamy sauce and spices. You enjoy it served in a cup. This dish often includes cotija cheese, lime, and cilantro, giving it a fresh taste. Each bite is sweet, tangy, and savory. It’s a perfect treat for warm days or gatherings. You can find it sold by street vendors in Mexico.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Esquites ahead of time. Cook and mix the corn with the creamy sauce. Store it in the fridge for up to two days. Just remember to add fresh cilantro and cheese before serving. This keeps the flavors bright and lively. You might want to squeeze fresh lime on top right before you eat it.
Where can I buy Esquites?
You can buy Esquites from many street vendors in Mexico. In the U.S., look for it at Mexican restaurants or food trucks. Some grocery stores may sell pre-packaged Esquites in the deli section. You might also find it at local farmers’ markets during corn season. If you want the real deal, try making it at home. It’s simple and fun!
This article covered everything you need to make delicious Esquites. We explored the key ingredients, optional toppings, and nutrition facts. I shared clear steps for preparing and serving Esquites. Tips helped you choose corn and avoid common mistakes. We also discussed tasty variations and how to store leftovers.
In summary, making Esquites is simple and fun. With these tips, you can enjoy it anytime!
