Esquites Mexicanos Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s like a fiesta in a bowl, with the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors that bring back memories of street food adventures. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to comfort dish that impresses my friends and satisfies my craving for something vibrant and delicious.

Esquites Mexicanos is a dish I treasure for its delicious taste and nutritional perks. The base of the dish is 4 cups of corn kernels—fabulously fiber-rich—but that could never have been the whole story.

You know me better than to think I’d serve you anything too close to one-note! The dish has wonderful depth and variety with the addition of creamy mayonnaise, which is oddly but splendidly enhanced by the addition of tangy lime juice.

And then, oh, then, we can’t forget the deliciously rich cotija cheese (or, if you like, queso fresco). A bit of chili powder adds just enough kick, and chopped cilantro brightens every single bite.

Enjoy! You could even spice it up more, if you like, with some fresh jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.

Ingredients

• Corn kernels: High in fiber, sweet and juicy, rich in vitamins.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess, rich texture, contains healthy fats.
• Cotija cheese: Salty and crumbly, adds protein and calcium.
• Lime juice: Tart and refreshing, boosts vitamin C intake.
• Chili powder: Mild spice, enhances flavor, contains antioxidants.
• Cilantro: Fresh and fragrant, contains vitamins A and K.

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: diced jalapeño or hot sauce for extra heat
• Optional: extra lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. In a big frying pan on medium heat, melt the butter that has no salt.

2. Incorporate the corn kernels into the skillet and cook them on medium-high heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are a deep golden color and slightly charred.

3. Take the corn from the skillet and place it in a large bowl.

4. Combine the mayonnaise and corn in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly so that the corn is evenly coated with mayonnaise.

5. Include the cotija cheese, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Combine well.

6. Add chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste so that the flavors suit your preference. Adjust as necessary.

7. To make it hotter, you can add jalapeño, diced, or a dash of hot sauce, and mix it well.

8. Individual cups or bowls are the most suitable serving vessels for warm esquites.

9. If desired, garnish with additional crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro.

10. Provide additional lime wedges on the side for people who want to make it more citrus-y.

Equipment Needed

1. Large frying pan or skillet
2. Large bowl
3. Measuring cups
4. Measuring spoons
5. Spatula or wooden spoon
6. Knife
7. Cutting board
8. Serving cups or bowls

FAQ

• Can I use canned corn for this recipe?Indeed, canned corn can be used; however, it is imperative to drain and rinse it thoroughly to minimize sodium levels before incorporating it into the recipe.
• What can I substitute for cotija cheese?You can use feta cheese or Parmesan cheese as a substitute for cotija cheese if it is not available.
• Is there a way to make esquites dairy-free?Absolutely! Esquites can be made dairy-free by simply leaving out the cotija cheese or substituting a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• How do I store leftovers?Leftovers should be kept in air-tight containers in the refrigerator and can be stored there for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet or the microwave, and do so gently.
• Can I make esquites spicy?Of course! Increase the heat to your preference by adding diced jalapeño or a splash of your favorite hot sauce.
• Can this dish be served cold?Indeed, esquites can be consumed at a low temperature, even though they are most commonly served hot. A “chilled” esquite, when prepared in a certain way, can be a very refreshing snack on a hot day.

Substitutions and Variations

Mexican crema or sour cream can be used in place of mayonnaise for a tangy alternative.
Cotija cheese: Substitute feta cheese or queso fresco for a texture and taste similar to Cotija cheese.
Lemon juice: If limes are not available, it is possible to use lemon juice.
Chopped cilantro—If you don’t have any on hand, you can use parsley, which offers a similar greenery. If you’re not cilantro’s biggest fan, parsley will still give you a nice and fresh topping with your dish.
Chili powder. Use smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a different heat element.

Pro Tips

1. Char for Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, make sure to get a good char on the corn kernels. A little bit of smokiness can elevate the dish—if you’re using fresh corn, you might try grilling the corn first before cutting off the kernels.