These Mexican corn cups, or esquites, are a tasty treat full of sweet corn, creamy mayo, and zesty lime. Topped with cheese and chili powder, they pack a flavorful punch!
I love serving these warm at gatherings—everyone enjoys getting their own little cup! It’s like a fiesta in every bite, and you can customize the toppings to your heart’s delight!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn kernels bring great texture and sweetness. If you’re short on fresh corn, 3 cans of drained corn work well too. I enjoy using canned corn for speed, just rinse them to reduce added sodium.
Butter: Unsalted butter is perfect here, as it allows you to manage the saltiness yourself. If you’re dairy-free, olive oil or vegan butter can be great substitutes for a similar flavor.
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayo adds creaminess, but plain Greek yogurt is a healthy swap that still gives it a nice tang. I like using a mix of both for added creaminess!
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly Mexican cheese has a unique flavor. If you can’t find cotija, feta works in a pinch, or even queso fresco. Just keep in mind they might change the taste slightly.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is essential for that authentic taste, but if you’re not a fan, parsley can substitute for color without overpowering the dish.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Sauté for Corn?
Sautéing the corn to get a bit of char is key to enhancing its flavor. Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the corn to help develop that nice golden color.
- Start with medium heat and add your butter; let it melt but not brown.
- Add the corn, spreading it evenly. Stir occasionally to ensure it chars evenly.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes, until you see some nice browning on the kernels.
- If you want even more char, feel free to cook it a little longer for extra flavor.
These tips will help you get that delicious, slightly smoky taste that makes the dish shine! Enjoy your Mexican Corn Cups warm for the best flavor experience.
How to Make Mexican Corn Cups (Esquites)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Corn Cups:
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (or 3 cans of corn, drained)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (or more to taste)
- 1 lime, juiced (plus lime wedges for serving)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and another 10 minutes for cooking, making a total of about 20 minutes. You’ll quickly boil or drain the corn, sauté it until slightly charred, mix in the creamy ingredients, and then serve warm. It’s a fast and delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, start by boiling the corn kernels in a large pot of salted water for about 5 minutes. Then, drain the corn and set it aside. If you’re using canned corn, just drain and rinse it to remove the excess salt and liquid. This will make everything taste fresher!
2. Sauté the Corn:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the drained corn kernels. Sauté the corn for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is slightly charred. This adds a lovely flavor and texture!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed corn, mayonnaise, crumbled cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, and chopped cilantro. Stir everything together well until it’s nicely mixed. This is where the flavors come to life!
4. Season and Serve:
Now, taste your corn mixture! Add salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors. Once seasoned to your liking, it’s time to serve. Spoon the corn mixture into individual cups or small bowls.
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
Top each serving with extra crumbled cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and a handful of fresh cilantro. Don’t forget to garnish with lime wedges on the side! Serve warm and enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! You can use frozen corn; just make sure to thaw it first. You can do this by placing the corn in the fridge overnight or quickly defrosting it in the microwave. Once thawed, sauté it as directed to get that delicious charred flavor.
How to Make it Dairy-Free?
If you want to make Mexican Corn Cups dairy-free, substitute the cotija cheese with a non-dairy cheese or simply omit it altogether. For a creamy texture, you can use a dairy-free mayonnaise. The lime and spices will still provide plenty of flavor!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the corn mixture ahead! Make it and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. Just hold off on adding the fresh cilantro and garnishes until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat the mixture in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture.
