What To Know
- Esquites, a beloved Mexican street food, is a tantalizing blend of juicy corn, creamy mayonnaise, tangy lime, and a symphony of savory spices.
- Store the esquites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Esquites, a beloved Mexican street food, is a tantalizing blend of juicy corn, creamy mayonnaise, tangy lime, and a symphony of savory spices. While traditionally enjoyed hot and fresh, this versatile dish can be effortlessly prepared ahead of time, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 ears of corn, shucked and grilled or roasted
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn: Grill or roast the corn until tender and slightly charred. Cut the kernels off the cob and set aside.
2. Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, red onion, cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Combine the Ingredients: Add the corn kernels to the dressing and stir gently to coat.
4. Refrigerate: Cover the esquites and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and develop.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled as a refreshing appetizer or side dish.
- Top with additional cotija cheese, chili powder, or cilantro for added flavor.
- Enjoy as a filling snack or light lunch.
Benefits of Make-Ahead Esquites:
- Time-Saving: Prepare the esquites ahead of time and save precious time during busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Convenient: The flavors develop and intensify over time, making the esquites even more delicious.
- Perfect for Parties: Make a large batch and serve as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Esquites is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Variations:
- Spicy Esquites: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the dressing for a kick of heat.
- Creamy Esquites: Increase the amount of sour cream or add cream cheese for a richer texture.
- Roasted Corn Esquites: Use roasted corn for a smoky and aromatic flavor.
- Vegetarian Esquites: Omit the cotija cheese for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Tips for Success:
- Use high-quality mayonnaise and sour cream for the best flavor.
- Season the esquites generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Allow the esquites to chill for at least 4 hours for optimal taste.
- Store the esquites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use frozen corn for make-ahead esquites?
- Yes, you can thaw frozen corn and use it in this recipe.
2. What can I substitute for cotija cheese?
- You can use grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese as a substitute.
3. How can I make the esquites spicier?
- Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the dressing for a spicy kick.
4. Can I add other vegetables to the esquites?
- Yes, you can add chopped bell peppers, tomatoes, or cucumbers for added flavor and texture.
5. How long can I store make-ahead esquites?
- Store the esquites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
