Esquites
Transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Mexico with this mouthwatering Esquites recipe! This beloved Mexican street food transforms fresh, golden corn kernels into a flavorful masterpiece, charred to perfection in butter and tossed with creamy mayonnaise, tangy lime juice, and a sprinkle of chili powder for an irresistible balance of richness and zest. Crumbled cotija cheese and diced jalapeño add a delightful twist of saltiness and spice, while fragrant cilantro and smoky paprika provide the perfect finishing touch. Ready in just 25 minutes, this quick and easy side dish is perfect for parties, barbecues, or as a savory snack. Serve warm or at room temperature in traditional cups for an authentic experience, and don’t forget the extra lime wedges for that zesty burst!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 large ears of corn)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 cup cotija cheese (crumbled)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 0.5 teaspoons paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
- 2 tablespoons cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 unit jalapeño (diced, optional for spice)
Instructions
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter.
Once the butter is melted, add the corn kernels to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until the corn is golden brown and slightly charred.
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the corn cool slightly for 2-3 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked corn, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and diced jalapeño (if using). Stir well to coat the corn in the mixture evenly.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more lime juice, salt, or chili powder to your liking.
Spoon the esquites into individual serving bowls or cups.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of paprika for added color and flavor.
Serve warm or at room temperature with additional lime wedges on the side.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
376 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 24.5 g | 31% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.2 g | 56% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 44 mg | 15% | |
| Sodium | 773 mg | 34% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 33.5 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.1 g | 18% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.6 g | ||
| Protein | 12.0 g | 24% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 212 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 1.1 mg | 6% | |
| Potassium | 530 mg | 11% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
