Your favorite fair food at home: how to cook mexican street corn in a crock pot
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn, effortlessly crafted in the comforting embrace of your crock pot. This culinary masterpiece, known as “elote,” is a symphony of sweet, savory, and spicy notes that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 12 ears of fresh corn, husked and cleaned
- 2 cups of water
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup of crumbled Cotija cheese
- 1/4 cup of chili powder
- 2 tablespoons of lime juice
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn: Arrange the corn ears in a single layer in the crock pot. Add water to the pot, ensuring it reaches about halfway up the corn.
2. Cook: Cover and cook the corn on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until tender.
3. Create the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, Cotija cheese, chili powder, lime juice, salt, and black pepper.
4. Remove the Corn: Carefully remove the corn from the crock pot and let it cool slightly.
5. Spread the Sauce: Generously spread the prepared sauce over each corn ear.
6. Garnish: Sprinkle with additional cilantro and Cotija cheese for a vibrant finish.
7. Serve: Enjoy your Mexican street corn immediately, accompanied by your favorite toppings such as lime wedges or hot sauce.
Perfecting the Corn
- Choose the Right Corn: Opt for fresh corn on the cob with plump kernels and a bright yellow hue.
- Cook to Tenderness: Cook the corn until it is tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Overcooking can result in mushy corn.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the crock pot to ensure even cooking.
Making the Sauce
- Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, add more mayonnaise or sour cream.
- Add Personal Touches: Enhance the sauce with your preferred seasonings, such as garlic powder, cumin, or paprika.
- Experiment with Toppings: Consider topping your corn with shredded chicken, avocado, or crumbled bacon for added flavor and texture.
Tips for Serving
- Serve Hot: For the best experience, serve the Mexican street corn while it’s still hot and the sauce is melted.
- Accompany with Drinks: Pair your corn with refreshing beverages like margaritas, beer, or horchata.
- Make it a Meal: Serve the corn as a side dish or main course, accompanied by tacos, rice, or beans.
Endless Possibilities
- Grilled Street Corn: Grill the corn before cooking it in the crock pot for a smoky flavor.
- Creamy Street Corn: Add a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce for a rich and creamy texture.
- Spicy Street Corn: Increase the chili powder or add chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a fiery kick.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?
A: Yes, you can use frozen corn. Thaw it completely before cooking.
Q: How long can I keep the Mexican street corn in the refrigerator?
A: Store the corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I reheat the Mexican street corn?
A: Yes, you can reheat the corn in the microwave or on the stovetop.