Mexican Corn Cups, or esquites, are a tasty treat made from fresh corn, mixed with lime juice, chili powder, and a sprinkle of cheese. It’s a delicious and fun way to enjoy corn!
Making esquites is super easy; you just mix everything in a cup and enjoy! I love to add extra cheese – it’s like a party in a cup. Trust me, it disappears quickly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn kernels bring the best flavor and texture to esquites. If fresh isn’t available, canned corn works just fine. I prefer frozen corn too; it’s usually sweet and tender, plus it’s always handy!
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for sautéing corn since it adds richness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try olive oil or coconut oil. They work great too!
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: This combo makes the sauce creamy. You can substitute yogurt for sour cream if you want a lighter version. Vegans can use dairy-free mayo and coconut yogurt instead.
Cheese: Queso fresco is traditional, but cotija cheese gives a stronger flavor. If you can’t find those, feta or goat cheese can be good alternatives. Just adjust the salt since they’re often saltier.
Lime Juice: Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor. You can also mix in some lemon juice if you’re in a pinch.
How Do I Sauté Corn Perfectly?
Sautéing corn correctly enhances its natural sweetness and adds a lovely texture to your esquites. It’s an important step worth focusing on.
- First, melt the butter over medium heat in a skillet. Make sure it’s hot enough to sizzle when you add the corn.
- Once you add the corn, stir occasionally for about 5 minutes. Look for a slight golden color to know it’s caramelizing properly.
- Keep an eye on it—too high heat can burn the corn!
Let the sautéed corn cool slightly before mixing it into the creamy dressing for a great balance of flavors. This step really makes a difference!
How to Make Mexican Corn Cups (Esquites)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Corn Mix:
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (or 2 cans of corn, drained)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1-2 tablespoons lime juice (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup queso fresco, crumbled (or cotija cheese)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick to put together and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a perfect snack or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, start by boiling a large pot of water. Add the corn kernels and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes until they’re tender. Drain the corn and set it aside to cool. If you’re using canned corn, simply drain and rinse it under cold water to remove excess sodium.
2. Sauté the Corn:
Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Once it’s melted, add the corn kernels. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to become slightly caramelized and golden for that yummy flavor. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let the corn cool slightly.
3. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a mixing bowl, put together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), and some salt. Mix everything well until it forms a smooth and creamy dressing. This will give our corn a delicious flavor!
4. Combine the Corn and Dressing:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the sautéed corn to the bowl with your creamy dressing. Stir gently until all the corn is well coated in that tasty mixture.
5. Serve It Up:
Now, divide the corn mixture into serving cups. Top each cup with crumbled queso fresco, a little extra sprinkle of chili powder for some flair, and a handful of fresh chopped cilantro. Looks great, doesn’t it?
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Mexican Corn Cups warm or at room temperature. Don’t forget to add lime wedges on the side for some zesty goodness that you can squeeze over the top. Enjoy every bite of your delicious esquites!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen corn is a great substitute for fresh corn. Just thaw it first and drain any excess water before using. Since frozen corn is already cooked, you can skip the boiling step and go straight to sautéing it in the skillet!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can make it dairy-free by using a plant-based mayonnaise and sour cream alternative. For the cheese, try vegan cheese or omit it altogether. You’ll still have a delicious and creamy esquites that everyone can enjoy!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
What Can I Serve With Mexican Corn Cups?
Mexican Corn Cups are a fantastic side dish! They pair well with grilled meats, tacos, or served alongside a fresh salad. You can also enjoy them as a snack or appetizer at gatherings!
