Mexican Corn Cups, or esquites, are a tasty treat made with sweet corn, lime, and spices. They’re often topped with cheese and chili powder, making them super flavorful!
I love grabbing a cup at the local market—it’s like a party for your taste buds! Perfect for summer days or anytime you crave something fun and tasty. 🌽💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Kernels: Fresh corn is ideal for a sweet crunch, but frozen corn works just as well. You can substitute with canned corn; just rinse it to reduce sodium and heat it up!
Butter: I love using unsalted butter here. If you prefer a plant-based option, try olive oil or vegan butter instead for a similar richness.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise and sour cream. It adds creaminess with more protein!
Cotija Cheese: If you can’t find cotija, feta cheese is a good substitute, or you can use parmesan for a different taste. Just keep in mind they will change the overall flavor profile.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a great herbal note, but if you’re not a fan, green onions or parsley can brighten up the dish too!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Sauté for Corn?
Sautéing corn is key to bring out its natural sweetness and flavor. Here’s how to get that perfect char:
- Use medium heat and be patient; it helps develop a nice golden color.
- Spread the corn out in a single layer in the skillet. Don’t overcrowd it!
- Stir occasionally for even cooking, about 5-7 minutes until you see a bit of browning.
Letting some kernels get golden will really enhance the flavor and texture of your esquites!
How to Make Mexican Corn Cups (Esquites)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Corn Mixture:
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few moments cutting corn (if using fresh), sautéing it, and mixing the flavors together. It’s a quick and delicious snack that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, carefully cut the kernels off the cob. If you’re using frozen corn, make sure to thaw it first and then drain any excess water. This step ensures that your corn will cook evenly and taste great!
2. Sauté the Corn:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add your corn kernels to the skillet. Sauté the corn for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them heated through and just starting to get a nice, slightly charred look. This adds flavor!
3. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir it all together until it’s well mixed and creamy. This will be the base that makes your corn dish extra delicious!
4. Combine Corn with Dressing:
Once your corn is done cooking, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, fold the cooled corn into the creamy mixture until every kernel is nicely coated. This is where all the flavors come together!
5. Add Cheese and Cilantro:
Gently mix in the crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro, saving some cilantro for later to garnish. This will give your esquites that fresh taste you want!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Grab some cups and serve the corn mixture in them, making them look nice and colorful. Top each cup with a sprinkle of chili powder, some extra cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro. It adds a great touch!
7. Don’t Forget the Limes:
Finally, provide lime wedges on the side so everyone can add a squeeze of lime juice to their corn cups. It brings out the flavors brilliantly! Enjoy your esquites warm or at room temperature—either way, they’re a treat!
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Yes, you can use canned corn! Just drain and rinse it well before sautéing. Keep in mind that since it’s already cooked, sauté it for only a few minutes, just enough to heat it through and add some flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Great news! This recipe is already vegetarian, as it contains no meat. However, if you’re looking to add more protein, consider incorporating black beans or chickpeas for a tasty twist!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy later, just give it a good stir and serve cold or gently warm it on the stove.
Can I Substitute the Cotija Cheese?
Definitely! If you can’t find cotija, try using feta or queso fresco as an alternative. They both offer a similar salty and creamy flavor that works well in this dish.
