Esquites is a beloved Mexican street food dish that offers a burst of flavors and textures. This tasty snack is made with corn kernels that are typically boiled or roasted, then mixed with a variety of savory and tangy ingredients. Esquites is often served in small cups or bowls, making it a convenient and satisfying street food option.
The history of esquites can be traced back to ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, where corn was a staple crop. Corn holds significant cultural and culinary importance in Mexican cuisine, and esquites showcases the versatility of this beloved ingredient.
Over time, esquites evolved as a popular street food in Mexico, particularly in urban areas and markets. It is commonly enjoyed as a quick and flavorful snack or side dish. In recent years, it has gained popularity beyond Mexico’s borders, becoming a sought-after dish in international food scenes.
Esquites captures the essence of Mexican street food with its combination of sweet corn, tangy lime, creamy mayo, and savory cheese. It serves as a delicious reminder of the rich culinary heritage of Mexico and continues to delight food enthusiasts with its vibrant flavors and cultural significance.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: hot sauce, Tajín seasoning, lime wedges
Instructions:
If using fresh corn, remove the kernels from the cob. If using frozen corn, thaw it according to the package instructions.
Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the corn kernels and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the corn is tender and slightly charred. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Transfer the corn to a large serving bowl. Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the corn and toss well to coat all the kernels.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or chili powder if desired.
Serve the esquites warm, either as a side dish or a snack. You can top it with additional crumbled cotija cheese, a drizzle of hot sauce, a sprinkle of Tajín seasoning, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra flavor.