Hi! I'm Ali. I've been traveling for ten years, collecting recipes from local people from Mexico. Check out our recipes submitted from women around the world with videos and printable PDFs. Explore Fritter >
Mexican street corn, or elote, is a beloved snack food that has become a staple of street food culture in Mexico and beyond.
With its charred, smoky flavor and creamy, tangy toppings, elote is a true representation of the bold and vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine.
In this blog post, we'll explore the history and cultural significance of this iconic dish, as well as share a traditional recipe for you to recreate at home. So, grab an ear of corn and join us on a journey through the cultural and culinary landscape of Mexican elote!
First off: What is the Origin of Elote?
Elote, or Mexican street corn, has a long and rich history in Mexican cuisine.
Corn has been a staple food in Mexico for thousands of years, with evidence of its cultivation dating back to 5000 BC.
The Aztecs and other indigenous groups used corn in many of their traditional dishes, including elote.
It is believed that the practice of grilling corn on the cob over an open flame originated in pre-Columbian times.
Elote became popular as a street food in Mexico during the early 20th century. Vendors would sell roasted corn on the cob from carts or stalls, often dressed with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.
Today, elote can be found not only on the streets of Mexico but also at festivals and fairs around the world.
Its popularity continues to grow as people discover the delicious combination of flavors and textures that make up this beloved dish.
What is Elote made of?
Elote is typically made of grilled or roasted corn on the cob, which is then slathered with a mixture of mayonnaise and Mexican crema (a type of sour cream).
The corn is then sprinkled with crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder, and fresh lime juice.
Some variations also include chopped cilantro or scallions.
