Elote Dip
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, elote dip is the answer! This creamy, spicy dip is inspired by the traditional Mexican street corn known as elote. Bursting with flavors of grilled corn, spicy mayo, and tangy lime, it’s perfect for dipping tortilla chips or fresh veggies. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a snack at home, this dip is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
Ingredients
– 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 1/4 cup) of elote dip contains approximately 250 calories, 18g of fat, 15g of carbohydrates, and 6g of protein. This nutritional value is based on one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. If using fresh corn, grill it until charred; if using frozen, thaw and sauté in a skillet.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Add lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
4. Fold in the grilled corn and half of the cotija cheese.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl.
7. Sprinkle the remaining cotija cheese on top.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
9. Serve with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.
10. Enjoy your elote dip warm or at room temperature!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the cotija cheese with feta cheese for a similar salty flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, use vegan cream cheese and a dairy-free sour cream alternative. For added heat, consider adding diced jalapeños.
Serving and Pairings
Elote dip pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, pita bread, fresh veggies, or even as a topping for tacos. You can also serve it with grilled meats for a delicious meal accompaniment.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover elote dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring until heated through. This dip is not recommended for freezing, as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the corn to maintain a crunchy texture.
– Don’t skip the lime juice; it adds essential flavor.
– Ensure cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
– Adjust spices gradually to control heat levels.
– Mix gently to keep the corn intact.
Helpful Tips
– Use fresh corn for the best flavor and texture.
– Garnish with extra cilantro for a fresh touch.
– Serve with a variety of dippers for guests to choose from.
– Experiment with adding different spices like paprika or cayenne.
FAQs
What can I use instead of cotija cheese?
Feta cheese is a great substitute for cotija, offering a similar salty flavor. You can also try ricotta or any crumbly cheese you prefer.
Can I make elote dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare elote dip a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
Is elote dip spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your taste. You can add more chili powder or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
How do I serve elote dip?
Serve elote dip in a bowl with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or even as a topping for grilled meats or tacos for a delicious twist.
Can I freeze elote dip?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture can change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.
Conclusion
Elote dip is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings the essence of Mexican street food to your table. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, this dip will surely be a hit!
Elote Dip
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn fresh or frozen
- 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1 lime juiced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- If using fresh corn, grill it until charred; if using frozen, thaw and sauté in a skillet.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Add lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
- Fold in the grilled corn and half of the cotija cheese.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Transfer the dip to a serving bowl.
- Sprinkle the remaining cotija cheese on top.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro.
- Serve with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.
- Enjoy your elote dip warm or at room temperature!
