Description
This Street Corn Dip is a flavorful and creamy appetizer inspired by traditional Mexican street corn, also known as elote. It combines charred corn kernels with a zesty blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, and spices for a delicious party snack that can be served chilled or at room temperature. Perfect for dipping with tortilla chips or fresh veggies, this easy-to-make dip is a crowd-pleaser for casual gatherings and game days.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables & Herbs
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned – if using frozen, thaw first)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 jalapeño (seeded and finely chopped, optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- juice of 1 lime
Cheese & Spices
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese (crumbled)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Char the Corn: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until they develop a slight char and a roasted aroma, about 6 to 8 minutes. This step enhances the natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor to the dip. Remove from heat and let the corn cool for a few minutes.
- Prepare the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder, smoked paprika, fresh lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to create a smooth and flavorful creamy mixture that balances tanginess with a mild kick of spice.
- Combine and Mix: Add the cooled, charred corn kernels to the creamy base along with chopped fresh cilantro and the optional jalapeño for extra heat. Mix gently but thoroughly to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the street corn dip to a serving bowl. For an appealing presentation and additional flavor, sprinkle extra cotija cheese, a pinch of chili powder, or more chopped cilantro on top. Serve the dip chilled or at room temperature alongside tortilla chips, sliced veggies, or your favorite dippers for a delicious party appetizer.
Notes
- For a lighter and tangier dip, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
- Enhance the texture and flavor by adding black beans or diced red onion.
- This dip is best served the same day for optimal freshness and flavor.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days.
