Mexican Corn Cups, or esquites, are tasty little cups filled with delicious corn. They’re often mixed with lime, butter, cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder for that extra kick!
These cups are perfect for any snack time. I love how easy they are to make and how they bring summer vibes, even in the colder months. Who can resist that buttery corn goodness? 🤤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Kernels: Fresh corn gives the best flavor, but frozen works great too! If you choose fresh, try grilling it for a smoky taste. For a unique twist, use canned corn, but drain it well before cooking.
Cotija Cheese: This cheese is crumbly and adds a nice salty touch. If you can’t find cotija, feta cheese is a good substitute. It may not be as creamy, but it will work well in this recipe.
Mayonnaise: Traditional recipes use mayonnaise for creaminess. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt can substitute. It adds a tangy flavor, which can be delightful.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dish. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice can work too. Just adjust the amount to taste as it can be more potent!
How Do I Cook the Corn Perfectly?
Cooking corn properly is key to achieving the best flavor. If using fresh corn, grilling it enhances the sweetness and adds that lovely char. Follow these steps:
- For fresh corn: Grill it at medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, turning until all sides are nicely charred.
- For frozen corn: Sauté in a skillet with a little oil for 5-7 minutes, stirring until heated through and slightly browned.
Remember to work with the warmth of the corn when mixing in the butter, as it melts easily!
How to Make Mexican Corn Cups (Esquites)?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (plus extra for topping)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (or to taste)
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Optional: hot sauce (to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time. If using fresh corn, grilling will take an additional 10 minutes. Overall, you can have these tasty Mexican Corn Cups ready to enjoy in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, start by grilling it over medium heat until the kernels are nicely charred and cooked through—this will take about 10 minutes. If you’re using frozen corn, simply heat it in a skillet over medium heat until it’s warmed up and slightly browned. Either way, aim for sweet, tender corn for the best flavor!
2. Combining the Corn and Butter:
Once your corn is ready, place it into a large bowl while it’s still warm. Add the unsalted butter and mix well until the butter melts and coats the corn beautifully. This adds a wonderful richness to your dish!
3. Mixing in the Flavors:
Now, it’s time to add some zest! Stir in the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Toss everything together until the corn is evenly coated with the creamy, flavorful mixture. Adjust the chili powder and salt to your liking for a personalized kick!
4. Serving it Up:
Spoon the delicious corn mixture into small serving cups or bowls. This is a fun and easy way to serve your esquites!
5. Topping the Corn:
Sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese generously over the top of each serving. If you love spice, feel free to add a little extra chili powder on top to amp up the heat!
6. Adding Garnishes:
Don’t forget to garnish your corn cups with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of citrus flavor right before eating!
7. Drizzle Optional Hot Sauce:
If you’re a fan of heat, now is the time to drizzle some hot sauce on top of your corn cups. It adds a great kick that complements the other flavors perfectly!
Enjoy your tasty and vibrant Mexican Corn Cups with family and friends! They are perfect as a snack or side dish. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Absolutely! If you want to use canned corn, simply drain and rinse it before sautéing. Heat it in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes, just until warmed through. This keeps the texture nice while blending flavors.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make it vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based butter and using a vegan mayonnaise. For the cheese, try a vegan cheese crumble or skip it altogether and enhance the dish with more spices!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you might want to add a splash of water or lime juice to restore moisture while microwaving or sautéing.
What Can I Substitute for Cotija Cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta or queso fresco make great substitutes! They won’t have the exact same flavor, but they will still provide a deliciously creamy and salty finish to your corn cups.
