Easy Mexican Corn Cups, also known as Esquites, are a tasty treat! They’re made with sweet corn, lime juice, creamy mayo, and a sprinkle of cheese—what’s not to love?
These cups are perfect for a snack or a side dish, and they’re super simple to prepare. I love serving them at parties. They always bring smiles, and I might “accidentally” eat too many! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn tastes best! If using frozen, just make sure to thaw it first. Canned corn could work, but the texture might not be the same. Personal tip: using a grill for fresh corn gives it a wonderful smoky flavor.
Mayonnaise & Cream: Regular mayo works great, but I like using a mix of mayo and Mexican crema for extra richness. If you can’t find crema, sour cream is a good alternative. For a lighter option, you could try Greek yogurt.
Cotija Cheese: Cotija gives a nice salty kick. If you don’t have it, feta is a great replacement—just remember it’s a bit saltier, so adjust your salt wisely. Some people also enjoy using shredded cheese like Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is best for flavor. Bottled juice can work in a pinch, but it won’t be as vibrant. You can also use lemon juice if you don’t have limes on hand.
How Do You Get the Perfect Char on Corn?
Charred corn brings a deeper flavor to your corn cups, and it’s easier than you think! Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and let it get hot before adding the butter.
- Spread the corn kernels evenly in the pan without overcrowding them. This helps achieve that coveted char.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Look for golden brown spots before removing them from heat.
Feel free to add a splash of lime juice while cooking for an extra zing!
How to Make Easy Mexican Corn Cups (Esquites)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Corn Mixture:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 5 ears of corn if fresh)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (plus more for garnish)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Tajín seasoning, for additional spice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and perfect for a party or a tasty snack at home. You can serve them immediately for the best flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, start by cutting the kernels off the cob. If you’ve opted for frozen corn, make sure to thaw it first. It will cook much better this way!
2. Cook the Corn:
In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, add the corn kernels. Cook the corn, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, or until the kernels are slightly charred and cooked through. This gives them a nice flavor!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
After cooking, remove the skillet from heat and transfer the corn to a mixing bowl. Add the mayonnaise, Mexican crema (or sour cream), lime juice, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir until it’s well mixed.
4. Add the Cheese and Cilantro:
Fold in half of the crumbled cotija cheese and most of the chopped cilantro, saving a little for the garnish later. Mix gently to keep the ingredients combined but not mushy.
5. Serve in Cups:
Grab some serving cups and spoon the corn mixture into them. Fill them generously so everyone gets a hearty portion!
6. Garnish:
Top the corn cups with the remaining cotija cheese, a bit of chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder or Tajín for a punch of flavor.
7. Final Touch:
Serve the corn cups immediately! Don’t forget to include lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top just before eating. It’s a great zesty touch!
Enjoy your sweet, creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy Mexican Corn Cups as a fantastic snack or side dish that’s sure to impress your friends and family!
FAQ for Easy Mexican Corn Cups (Esquites)
Can I Use Different Types of Corn?
Absolutely! While fresh or frozen corn works best for this recipe, canned corn can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to drain and rinse it well to reduce excess sodium and keep the flavors fresh.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make these Mexican Corn Cups vegan, simply replace the mayonnaise and Mexican crema with vegan alternatives. You can use vegan mayo and cashew cream or a plant-based sour cream. Swap cotija cheese for a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the corn may lose some texture after being stored. Reheat gently on the stovetop or enjoy them cold!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the corn mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the garnishes right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant!
