Craving mexican street corn? here’s how to make it at home with just your oven
What To Know
- Embark on this culinary adventure with us as we guide you through the art of crafting authentic Mexican street corn on the cob in the oven.
- Bake the corn for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- To create a vegetarian version, simply omit the Cotija cheese and add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Mexican street corn, a culinary masterpiece from the vibrant streets of Mexico, tantalizes taste buds with its irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. While traditionally grilled, this delectable dish can be recreated in the comfort of your own oven, offering a convenient and equally mouthwatering alternative. Embark on this culinary adventure with us as we guide you through the art of crafting authentic Mexican street corn on the cob in the oven.
Gathering the Essential Ingredients
Before embarking on this culinary journey, gather the following ingredients to awaken your taste buds:
- Fresh corn on the cob (6-8 ears)
- Mayonnaise (1 cup)
- Sour cream (1/2 cup)
- Cotija cheese (1/2 cup, crumbled)
- Chili powder (1 tablespoon)
- Lime juice (1 tablespoon)
- Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Preparing the Corn on the Cob
1. Remove the Husks and Silk: Gently peel back the husks and remove the silky threads. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any debris.
2. Boil or Steam the Corn: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the corn and boil for 5-7 minutes, or until tender. Alternatively, you can steam the corn in a steamer basket for 10-12 minutes.
3. Baste with Butter: Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the heat and brush it with melted butter. This will add a subtle richness and enhance the flavors.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
1. Combine Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth and well combined.
2. Add Chili Powder and Lime Juice: Stir in the chili powder and lime juice to infuse the sauce with a vibrant blend of flavors.
3. Season with Salt and Pepper: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preferences.
Assembling the Mexican Street Corn
1. Spread the Creamy Sauce: Spread the creamy sauce evenly over the corn on the cob. Ensure that every nook and cranny is generously coated.
2. Sprinkle with Cotija Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled Cotija cheese over the sauce. This salty and tangy cheese will provide a delightful contrast to the sweet and creamy flavors.
3. Garnish with Cilantro: Finish off the Mexican street corn with a sprinkling of chopped cilantro. This fresh herb will add a burst of color and a zesty aroma.
Baking the Mexican Street Corn
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the Corn on a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the corn on the cob on top.
3. Bake for 15-20 Minutes: Bake the corn for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
4. Rotate the Corn: During baking, rotate the corn every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Serving the Authentic Mexican Street Corn
1. Remove from the Oven: Once the Mexican street corn is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Serve with Lime Wedges: Serve the corn with lime wedges on the side, allowing diners to squeeze fresh lime juice over their corn to enhance the flavors.
3. Enjoy the Culinary Delight: Savor every bite of this authentic Mexican street corn on the cob, savoring the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.
Tips for Perfect Mexican Street Corn
1. Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn on the cob will yield the best results, providing a crisp and juicy texture.
2. Don’t Overcook the Corn: Overcooking the corn will make it tough and chewy. Boil or steam it just until tender.
3. Experiment with Different Cheeses: While Cotija cheese is traditional, you can also experiment with other salty cheeses such as Parmesan or Feta.
4. Add Other Toppings: Feel free to customize your Mexican street corn with additional toppings such as diced tomatoes, chopped onions, or a sprinkle of your favorite chili flakes.
5. Make it Vegetarian: To create a vegetarian version, simply omit the Cotija cheese and add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I grill the corn instead of baking it?
A: Yes, you can grill the corn over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
Q: What if I don’t have Cotija cheese?
A: You can substitute Parmesan cheese, Feta cheese, or any other salty cheese of your choice.
Q: Can I store the leftover Mexican street corn?
A: Yes, you can store the leftover Mexican street corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.