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Flavorful Elote Corn Cups Recipe with Spicy Chipotle Mayo

Flavorful Elote Corn Cups - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for delicious elote corn cups topped with a smoky, spicy chipotle mayo. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a flavorful snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 5 ears) or frozen, thawed
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 12 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon adobo sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, shuck the ears and slice the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife. If frozen, thaw completely and drain any excess water (5-7 minutes).
  2. Mix the Corn Base: In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, lime juice, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to mix without mashing the corn (3 minutes).
  3. Make the Spicy Chipotle Mayo: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Adjust heat as desired (5 minutes).
  4. Assemble the Corn Cups: Spoon the corn mixture evenly into serving cups or ramekins. Drizzle or dollop the spicy chipotle mayo on top. Garnish with extra cilantro or paprika (7 minutes).
  5. Chill or Serve Immediately: Serve right away or chill for 15-20 minutes to let flavors meld. Cover if chilling.

Notes

Do not overmix the corn base to keep kernels plump. Adjust chipotle peppers for desired heat. Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. Optional toppings include toasted breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips for crunch. Use gloves when handling chipotle peppers.

Nutrition

Keywords: elote, corn cups, chipotle mayo, spicy, Mexican street food, snack, party food, easy recipe