Elevate your summer grilling: deconstructed mexican street corn recipe for a fiesta

Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure with our deconstructed Mexican street corn recipe. This modern twist on the beloved street food transforms the classic flavors into an elegant and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

For the Corn

• 6 ears fresh corn, husked and silked
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Queso Sauce

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

For the Crema

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

For the Toppings

• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• Lime wedges for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Grill the Corn

Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Brush the corn with melted butter and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are charred and tender.

Step 2: Make the Queso Sauce

In a small saucepan, whisk together the cheddar cheese, milk, flour, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce is thickened and smooth.

Step 3: Make the Crema

In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Step 4: Deconstruct the Corn

Cut the grilled corn kernels off the cob and place them in a large bowl.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Layer the corn kernels, queso sauce, crema, cotija cheese, cilantro, and red onion in a serving dish. Garnish with lime wedges.

Variations

• Spicy: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or diced jalapeños to the queso sauce.
• Sweet: Brush the corn with honey or maple syrup before grilling.
• Vegetarian: Use a plant-based cheese substitute for the cheddar cheese.

Benefits of Deconstructed Mexican Street Corn

• Customization: Allows you to tailor the flavors according to your preferences.
• Presentation: Creates an elegant and visually appealing dish.
• Healthier: Eliminates the need for excessive butter or oil, making it a healthier alternative.

Tips

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for optimal flavor.
• Grill the corn until it has a slight char for a smoky aroma.
• Make the queso sauce ahead of time and reheat before serving.
• Chill the crema for at least 30 minutes to enhance its tangy flavor.

Wrap-Up: A Culinary Masterpiece

Our deconstructed Mexican street corn recipe is a culinary masterpiece that combines the vibrant flavors of traditional street food with the elegance of a fine dining experience. Whether you enjoy it as a refreshing appetizer or a satisfying main course, this dish will delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I use canned corn instead of fresh corn?
A: Yes, but fresh corn will provide a sweeter and more flavorful experience.
Q: How do I store the leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What other toppings can I add?
A: Consider adding avocado slices, chopped tomatoes, or a drizzle of chipotle sauce for additional flavor and texture.