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Elote en Vaso

Elote en Vaso

Elote en Vaso is a vibrant Mexican street food snack featuring sautéed corn kernels layered with a creamy, tangy, and spicy sauce, topped with salty Cotija cheese and zesty seasonings. Served in a convenient cup, this flavorful appetizer is quick to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any occasion, bringing authentic Mexican flavors right to your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 3 tablespoons Mexican crema or sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
  • Chili powder or Tajín seasoning, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Corn: Start with fresh or thawed corn kernels and sauté them in butter over medium heat until they are tender and slightly smoky, about 5-7 minutes. This step enhances the natural sweetness and adds a key smoky flavor to the dish.
  2. Mix the Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and Mexican crema or sour cream. Whisk in lime juice, salt, and pepper until the sauce is smooth and tangy, ready to coat every kernel.
  3. Assemble the Corn Cups: Once the corn has cooled slightly, spoon it into cups or small glasses. Generously layer the corn with the creamy sauce, making sure each bite will be flavorful and creamy.
  4. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese evenly over the dressed corn. Follow with a pinch of chili powder or Tajín seasoning to deliver the classic spicy, zesty kick characteristic of Mexican street corn.
  5. Finish with a Squeeze of Lime: Top each cup with a fresh squeeze of lime juice to add a bright citrus note that balances the richness and brings all the flavors together beautifully.

Notes

  • Use fresh corn kernels whenever possible for the best flavor and texture.
  • Don’t skip the lime juice; it adds essential acidity that brightens the entire dish.
  • Lightly toasting chili powder before sprinkling can enhance the aroma and depth of flavor.
  • Serve immediately for the freshest taste and best texture.
  • Customize servings using clear glass cups or mini mason jars for fun and elegant presentation.
  • Store leftovers without cheese and seasoning in the refrigerator up to two days; add these just before serving.
  • Avoid freezing to maintain the texture of the corn and creamy sauce.
  • Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat and then reassemble with fresh toppings; avoid microwaving the whole dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: Elote en Vaso, Mexican street corn, corn in a cup, creamy corn snack, Mexican appetizer, spicy corn, Cotija cheese, easy Mexican recipe