Mexican Corn Cups, or esquites, are a tasty street snack that will make your taste buds dance! They are made with fresh corn, spices, and creamy toppings that make them truly special.
These little cups are packed with flavor and are perfect for sharing with friends. I love to add a sprinkle of cheese and a squeeze of lime on top. Let’s face it, who can resist corn like this? 🌽✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Kernels: Fresh corn gives the best flavor and crunch. If you can’t find it, canned corn works fine; just be sure to drain and rinse. Frozen corn is another great alternative—just thaw and drain if needed.
Butter: I love using unsalted butter for sautéing the corn as it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try olive oil or coconut oil instead.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: Combining these creates a creamy base. If you’re looking for lighter options, Greek yogurt can replace both ingredients. For a vegan alternative, use a plant-based mayonnaise and dairy-free yogurt.
Cotija Cheese: Cotija adds a unique flavor, but if it’s hard to find, feta cheese is a great substitute. You could also use shredded cheese like Monterey Jack for a creamier texture.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a good alternative, or you could skip it altogether.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sauté on My Corn?
To achieve that delightful caramelization on corn, follow these steps to ensure a lovely texture and flavor:
- Use a large skillet—this allows enough space for the corn to sauté without steaming.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the butter; this helps to sear the corn.
- Add the corn in a single layer and don’t stir too frequently. Let it sit for a minute or two on one side to develop color.
- Cook until the corn is lightly browned and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes, adjusting the heat if necessary to prevent burning.
This will enhance the sweetness of the corn and give your Esquites that beautiful texture! Enjoy the flavors as they come together in the bowl!
How to Make Mexican Corn Cups (Esquites)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Corn Mixture:
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta as a substitute)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep and cooking time. Whether you’re grilling some fresh corn or quickly sautéing canned corn, you’ll have these tasty Mexican Corn Cups ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, start by grilling or boiling the corn kernels until they are tender. Once cooked, carefully cut the kernels off the cob. If you opt for canned corn, simply drain and rinse the corn under cold water before using it. This will help get rid of any excess salt or canning liquid.
2. Sautéing the Corn:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbly and fragrant, add in the corn kernels. Sauté the corn for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the kernels become lightly browned and slightly charred. This step adds a wonderful flavor!
3. Mixing the Creamy Dressing:
While the corn is cooking, grab a mixing bowl. Combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until smooth. Taste your dressing and adjust the seasoning if you like more spice!
4. Assembling the Corn Cups:
In a cute serving cup or bowl, layer the sautéed corn along with the creamy mixture. Give it a gentle stir to combine all those flavors together beautifully.
5. Topping and Serving:
Finish off your corn cups by topping them with crumbled cotija cheese and freshly chopped cilantro. If you want an extra kick, sprinkle a bit more chili powder on top. Serve your Mexican Corn Cups immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh or Canned?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen corn, just thaw it before sautéing. You can do this by leaving it in the fridge overnight or using the microwave for a quick thaw. Once thawed, you can sauté it in the skillet as directed.
What Can I Substitute for Cotija Cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta makes a great substitute! It has a similar crumbly texture and tangy flavor. Just crumble it over the top as you would with cotija for a delicious result.
How Should I Store Leftover Esquites?
Store any leftover corn cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the texture nice and creamy.
Can I Make Esquites Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the corn and the creamy mixture a few hours ahead! Just keep them separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the best texture. Combine them just before serving, and top with cheese and cilantro for freshness!
