Esquites

Growing up, I had the pleasure of experiencing the vibrant flavors of Mexico through its street food. One of my all-time favorites has to be Esquites, a delicious dish that combines fresh corn with a rich, creamy dressing. I can still remember the first time I tasted it from a street vendor during a summer festival. The smell of roasted corn wafted through the air, drawing crowds eager to enjoy this traditional treat. It was served in a cup, topped with crumbled cheese and a sprinkle of chili powder. With each bite, the sweetness of the corn perfectly balanced with the tangy lime and creamy sauce. It’s an explosion of flavor that reminds me of sunny days and laughter shared with friends.

Whenever I make Esquites, it takes me back to those carefree days. It’s a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just looking for a delightful snack, this recipe is sure to impress. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be customized to your taste. You can adjust the level of spice or experiment with different toppings. So, let’s dive into this flavorful journey and recreate this iconic Mexican street food right in your kitchen!

Esquites Shopping List

Gathering the ingredients for Esquites is a breeze! Each component plays a vital role in creating the signature taste we all love. From the sweet corn to the creamy mayonnaise, these ingredients work together to create a mouthwatering experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 cups of corn, cut off the cob or canned corn: The star of this dish, fresh corn brings sweetness and texture.
• 1 cup of mayonnaise: It adds creaminess and richness, complementing the corn beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons of table crema: This enhances the flavor profile, adding a touch of tanginess.
• 1 lime, juiced: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dish and adds a zesty kick.
• Salt to taste: Simple yet essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• ½ cup of queso fresco: This cheese adds a delicious creamy and crumbly texture.
• 2 teaspoons of chili powder or tajin seasoning: Adds a punch of heat and flavor that elevates the dish.

The Method for Esquites

Making Esquites is as simple as it is rewarding. You’ll quickly find yourself savoring each bite of this delicious dish. Let’s get started!

1. Begin by preparing the ingredients. If you’re using fresh corn, cut it off the cob so you have about 4 cups. If canned corn is your choice, make sure to drain it well. The sweetness of freshly cut corn truly elevates the dish!

2. In a large bowl, combine the corn, mayonnaise, table crema, lime juice, and a generous pinch of salt. Mix them thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. You want that creamy texture to envelop every kernel of corn.

3. Now comes the fun part! Take the cups you’ll be using for serving. Fill them halfway with the corn mixture. This is where we build layers of flavor.

4. Sprinkle a layer of queso fresco over the corn. Make sure you use enough to add that delightful creaminess. Then, add a dash of chili powder or tajin seasoning for an extra kick.

5. Next, fill the cups to the top with the remaining corn mixture. Don’t be shy here—let that delicious filling spill over a bit!

6. For the finishing touch, sprinkle more queso fresco and a bit more tajin or chili powder on top. This not only adds flavor but also gives a beautiful presentation.

7. Serve your Esquites immediately. I guarantee that the aroma will draw everyone to the table!

Making Adjustments

When it comes to preparing your Esquites, it’s great to have some tips in your back pocket to make your experience even better. Here are some adjustments you might consider:

• Storage: These can be stored for up to five days in an airtight container in the fridge, without the queso fresco and tajin.
• Freezing: I wouldn’t recommend freezing because the texture of the corn can change. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
• Pairing: Serve Esquites as a side dish with grilled meats or tacos for a delightful meal.
• Serving Style: You can serve them in individual cups for parties or a large bowl for family gatherings!
• Variation: Experiment with different spices to add your twist; smoked paprika can also work wonders!

Perfect Matches for Esquites

Serving Esquites can be as fun as making them! Here are some delicious pairing options:

• Grilled Chicken: The smokiness of grilled chicken complements the sweetness of the corn perfectly.
• Tacos: Whether it’s grilled fish or pork tacos, Esquites enhance the entire meal.
• Salads: Pair with a refreshing summer salad for a light and satisfying lunch.
• Drinks: Enjoy with a cold beverage like horchata or a citrusy lemonade to balance the flavors.
• Occasions: Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or casual dining.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Esquites brings together the delightful flavors of sweet corn, creamy dressing, and zesty lime, making it a truly special dish. Whether you’re enjoying it at a summer gathering or as a quick snack at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So why not give it a try today? You won’t be disappointed!

Esquites

Craving something extraordinary? Esquites is a vibrant Mexican street food that combines sweet corn with creamy mayonnaise and zesty lime. This easy recipe brings a festival of flavors to your table, making it a must-try for your next gathering!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 8 servings

Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups corn cut off of the cob or canned corn
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons table crema
• 1 lime lime juiced
• Salt to taste
• ½ cup queso fresco
• 2 teaspoons chili powder or tajin seasoning

Instructions

 

• Begin by preparing the ingredients. If you're using fresh corn, cut it off the cob so you have about 4 cups. If canned corn is your choice, make sure to drain it well. The sweetness of freshly cut corn truly elevates the dish!
• In a large bowl, combine the corn, mayonnaise, table crema, lime juice, and a generous pinch of salt. Mix them thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. You want that creamy texture to envelop every kernel of corn.
• Now comes the fun part! Take the cups you'll be using for serving. Fill them halfway with the corn mixture. This is where we build layers of flavor.
• Sprinkle a layer of queso fresco over the corn. Make sure you use enough to add that delightful creaminess. Then, add a dash of chili powder or tajin seasoning for an extra kick.
• Next, fill the cups to the top with the remaining corn mixture. Don’t be shy here—let that delicious filling spill over a bit!
• For the finishing touch, sprinkle more queso fresco and a bit more tajin or chili powder on top. This not only adds flavor but also gives a beautiful presentation.
• Serve your Esquites immediately. I guarantee that the aroma will draw everyone to the table!

Notes

These Esquites can be stored for up to five days in an airtight container in the fridge, without the queso fresco and tajin.

Keyword corn recipes, easy esquites, Esquites recipe, Mexican street corn

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Meet Sophia Hayes

I founded YumRecettes to turn my messy, joyful kitchen experiments into something I could share. While I steer the ship, I am first and foremost a cook. I love tackling every type of recipe, from grandmother’s old classics to modern fusion dishes. For me, the magic isn’t in a specific type of food, but in the act of preparing it. I’m usually the one urging the team to try that “one last idea” that ends up making the dish perfect.