These Mexican corn cups, or esquites, are a tasty treat made with sweet corn, creamy mayo, and a sprinkle of cheese. They are perfect for gatherings or a fun snack!
Every bite is a burst of flavor, making it hard to stop at just one! I love serving them in cute cups so everyone can enjoy their own. Trust me, it’s a corn party! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Kernels: Fresh corn gives the best flavor, but frozen corn is convenient. If you’re using fresh, I’d suggest sweet corn for that delightful crunch. Canned corn works in a pinch, but it may be softer.
Butter: I love using unsalted butter to control the salt levels. You can swap it for olive oil if you prefer a dairy-free option or want a lighter taste.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a great alternative. It adds creaminess and a slight tang! Sometimes, I mix in a little more lime juice with yogurt to keep that zesty flavor.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese adds a salty bite. If you can’t find cotija, feta cheese is a perfect stand-in. Just remember feta is a bit saltier, so adjust the salt in your dish accordingly.
Cilantro: If cilantro isn’t your thing, fresh parsley or even green onions can brighten up the dish without the strong herbal flavor.
How Do You Get That Perfectly Cooked Corn?
Getting the corn just right is key for delicious Esquites. Here’s how to get a nice, caramelized flavor that brings out the sweetness:
- Start by melting the butter over medium heat. This helps in achieving a nice even cook.
- Add the corn kernels and sauté for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning, allowing them to get a little char for extra flavor.
- Cook until the corn is tender and slightly golden, but be careful not to overcook as it can turn mushy.
Letting the corn cool slightly before mixing it with the mayo mixture helps keep the flavors fresh and zesty!
How to Make Mexican Corn Cups (Esquites)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Corn Cups:
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon lime juice (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta cheese)
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 25 minutes to make your tasty Mexican Corn Cups (Esquites). It’s quick and perfect as a snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, carefully remove the kernels from the cobs with a sharp knife. If you’re using frozen corn, make sure to thaw it before starting. Either way, you’ll have about 4 cups to work with!
2. Cook the Corn:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the corn kernels. Sauté the corn for about 5 to 7 minutes until they become tender and slightly caramelized, making them extra flavorful.
3. Mix the Sauce:
While the corn is cooking, grab a mixing bowl and combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, lime juice, and salt. Stir everything together until the mixture is nice and smooth.
4. Combine and Cool:
When the corn is done cooking, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, in a large bowl, mix the cooked corn with your creamy mayo mixture. Add in the crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro, and stir it all together until well combined.
5. Serve Up:
Spoon the delicious corn mixture into individual serving cups. To make them even tastier, top each cup with a bit more cotija cheese, some chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder if you like a little extra heat!
6. Enjoy with Lime:
Don’t forget to serve your corn cups with lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before you dig in adds an amazing flavor!
Enjoy your delicious and flavorful Mexican Corn Cups (Esquites)!
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Absolutely! Canned corn is a great substitute. Just be sure to drain and rinse it well to reduce excess sodium and avoid a soupy mixture. Sauté it for about 3-5 minutes just to warm through and caramelize a bit, since it’s already cooked.
Can I Substitute the Cotija Cheese?
Yes, you can use feta cheese as a substitute, which provides a similar salty flavor and crumbly texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cheese that crumbles or simply omit it for a lighter version.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less spice, reduce the chili powder to 1/4 teaspoon or omit it altogether. For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños into the mix. Adjust according to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover corn cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making them even tastier when you reheat them. Just warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving again.
