Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite treats: elote en vaso, or corn in a cup! This delightful Mexican street food is a burst of flavors that just screams summer. I remember strolling through the local fair, the air filled with the tantalizing aroma of grilled corn mixed with spices. I couldn’t resist stopping at a vendor, where they serve this creamy, zesty concoction right in a cup—perfect for munching on while walking around! The combination of sweet corn, rich mayo, tangy lime, and that sprinkle of cotija cheese just makes my taste buds dance. It’s such a simple dish, yet every bite is like a warm hug. Trust me, once you try making it at home, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients List
- 4 ears of corn: Fresh corn is key here! Look for plump ears with bright green husks. Boiling or grilling, it’s up to you, but I love the sweetness that comes out of boiling for this recipe.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: This gives the dish that creamy texture we all crave. You can use regular or even a lighter version if you prefer, but don’t skimp on the flavor!
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a nice tang that balances the sweetness of the corn. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try Greek yogurt as a substitute for a healthier twist!
- 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese: This is a must! Cotija has a salty, crumbly texture that elevates the dish. If you can’t find it, feta cheese works in a pinch, but it’ll be a little different.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: This adds that kick! Adjust the amount based on your heat preference—more if you like it spicy, less if you want to keep it mild.
- 1 lime, juiced: Fresh lime juice brightens everything up. Trust me, the zing from the lime is what takes this dish from good to *wow*!
- Salt to taste: Just a pinch or two will enhance all the flavors, but be careful not to overdo it, especially since cotija adds some natural saltiness.
How to Prepare elote en vaso corn in a cup
Making elote en vaso is a breeze, and trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping it up all summer long! Here’s how to bring this delicious dish to life:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Corn
First things first, let’s get that corn cooked! Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the 4 ears of corn and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the kernels are tender and a vibrant yellow. I love to poke one with a fork to check; it should be soft but still have a little bite. Once done, drain the corn and let it cool for a few minutes before cutting the kernels off the cob. This part can get a bit messy, so maybe do it over a large bowl to catch any runaway kernels!
Preparing the Mixture
Now, in a separate bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of sour cream, the juice of 1 lime, and a pinch of salt. Give it a good whisk until it’s all blended together. This creamy mixture is going to coat our corn and bring all those flavors together, so make sure it’s nice and smooth! Once your corn kernels are ready, toss them into this creamy concoction and stir until every kernel is coated in deliciousness. Don’t be shy—get in there and mix it well!
Serving Suggestions
To serve, just scoop the corn mixture into cups. I like to pile it high! Then, sprinkle with the crumbled cotija cheese and a dash of chili powder on top. If you’re feeling extra fancy, garnish with lime wedges for that zesty kick when you take a bite. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so grab a spoon and dig in right away! You’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears!
Nutritional Information
Okay, so let’s talk numbers! While I believe the joy of elote en vaso is in the flavors and experience, it’s good to know what you’re enjoying. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup). Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can change based on the specific brands and ingredients you use:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 6g
Elote en vaso is a delightful snack, and while it’s not exactly a health food, it’s definitely a treat worth enjoying! Just remember to savor each bite and maybe balance it out with some veggies later on. Happy munching!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your elote en vaso turns out absolutely perfect! First, don’t skip the boiling time for the corn; undercooked corn can be tough and chewy. Aim for that sweet spot of 5-7 minutes! If you’re unsure, taste a kernel—trust me, it should be tender and bursting with sweetness.
Next, when mixing the creamy sauce, whisk it until it’s super smooth. Lumps in the sauce can lead to uneven flavors. Also, be generous with the cotija cheese and chili powder on top; these add that signature kick and flavor that makes this dish shine!
Finally, serve it fresh! Elote en vaso is best enjoyed right away while the corn is still warm and the flavors are vibrant. If you’re making it ahead of time, keep everything separate until you’re ready to serve—this way, it stays fresh and delicious. Happy cooking!
Variations of elote en vaso corn in a cup
Now, while the classic elote en vaso is absolutely delicious as is, there are so many fun ways to mix it up and make it your own! Here are some variations that I absolutely love and think you should try:
- Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses! If you can’t find cotija, try using crumbled feta or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a unique twist. Each cheese brings its own flavor that can change the entire dish!
- Spicy Kick: Want to turn up the heat? Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the creamy mixture. Trust me, it adds a wonderful zing that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the corn!
- Herb Infusion: Mix in some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a fresh burst of flavor. It not only looks beautiful but adds a lovely brightness that balances the creaminess.
- Sweet and Savory: For a fun contrast, toss in some chopped avocado or a drizzle of honey. The creaminess of avocado complements the corn beautifully, while honey adds that delightful touch of sweetness!
- Seasonal Flavors: Depending on the time of year, you might want to add seasonal spices. In the fall, a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin spice can create a cozy twist, while in summer, a dash of smoked paprika gives a smoky depth!
Feel free to get creative and mix and match these ideas! The beauty of elote en vaso is that it’s so adaptable, and I promise you can’t go wrong with your personal touches. Happy experimenting!
FAQ Section
What is elote en vaso?
Elote en vaso, or corn in a cup, is a popular Mexican street food made with sweet corn served in a cup, typically mixed with creamy ingredients like mayonnaise and sour cream, topped with cotija cheese and chili powder. It’s a delicious, portable snack that captures the essence of summer!
Can I make elote en vaso in advance?
While elote en vaso is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Just keep the corn, creamy mixture, and toppings separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, everything stays fresh and vibrant, and you can quickly assemble it when you’re ready to dig in!
What can I substitute for cotija cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, don’t worry! Feta cheese works as a great substitute, giving a similar crumbled texture and salty flavor. You can also try using grated parmesan for a different twist—just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly!
How spicy is elote en vaso?
The spice level of elote en vaso can easily be adjusted to your liking! The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of chili powder, but you can add more if you love heat or reduce it for a milder version. Feel free to add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick if you’re feeling adventurous!
Can I use frozen corn instead?
Absolutely! If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn is a great alternative. Just cook it according to package instructions, and then proceed with the recipe as usual. It will still deliver that delightful flavor and texture you love in elote en vaso!
Elote en vaso corn in a cup: 7 Irresistible Ways to Savor
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Elote en vaso is a popular Mexican street food made with corn served in a cup.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Boil the corn for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Let the corn cool and cut the kernels off the cob.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and salt.
- Add the corn kernels to the mixture and stir well.
- Serve in cups and top with cotija cheese and chili powder.
- Garnish with lime wedges if desired.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference.
- This dish is best served fresh.
- You can substitute cotija cheese with feta cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: elote en vaso, corn in a cup, Mexican street food
