Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn (Elotes) – A Quick & Delicious Recipe!

Mexican Street Corn, or Elotes, is a popular and flavorful street food from Mexico that combines sweet, savory, and spicy elements. Traditionally, it’s made by grilling corn on the cob and then smothering it with a variety of toppings like mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime.

The dish is often served on street corners and at festivals, making it a beloved part of Mexican culture.

In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn.

By using an air fryer, you can achieve a deliciously crispy exterior and tender, juicy kernels without the need for a grill.

It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy this Mexican classic at home, whether for a weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing side dish at your next gathering.

What is Mexican Street Corn (Elotes)?

Mexican Street Corn, or Elotes, is a traditional Mexican dish that typically features grilled corn on the cob.

The corn is often brushed with mayonnaise or crema, sprinkled with crumbled cotija cheese, dusted with chili powder, and finished off with a squeeze of fresh lime. This combination of flavors creates a savory, creamy, spicy, and tangy experience with every bite.

It’s commonly enjoyed as a snack or side dish on street corners in Mexico, especially during festivals or summer months.

The combination of flavors and textures, with the charred corn and creamy toppings, makes Elotes a unique and highly sought-after treat.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Elotes?

While the traditional method of making Elotes involves grilling the corn, using an air fryer offers several advantages.

First, the air fryer provides an easy way to cook the corn without the need to fire up a grill.

It delivers the same crispy texture and tender kernels but in a fraction of the time.

The air fryer also allows you to get that beautiful golden brown color on the corn, similar to the grill marks you’d get from grilling.

Additionally, cooking corn in an air fryer is a cleaner and more convenient option.

You won’t need to deal with the smoke or mess associated with grilling. It’s a hassle-free way to enjoy the delicious flavors of Mexican Street Corn in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn

To make Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 Ears of Corn on the Cob – Fresh corn is best for this recipe, but you can use frozen corn if fresh isn’t available.
• Olive Oil – To lightly coat the corn before cooking for a crispy exterior.
• Mayonnaise – This gives the corn a creamy texture and helps other toppings adhere.
• Cotija Cheese – A crumbly Mexican cheese that adds a salty and savory flavor.
• Chili Powder – Adds a little heat and smokiness to balance the sweetness of the corn.
• Lime – For squeezing over the corn to add freshness and tanginess.
• Optional: Fresh Cilantro – For garnishing, adding a hint of herbaceous flavor.

With these ingredients, you’ll be ready to prepare a delicious batch of Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn

Making Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn is quick and easy. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious dish that captures the essence of the traditional Mexican street food.

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Start by peeling back the husks and removing the silk from the corn. If the ears are too large to fit in the air fryer, you can break them in half.

Step 2: Coat the Corn

Brush each ear of corn with a thin layer of olive oil. This will help the corn crisp up in the air fryer and give it a beautiful golden-brown color.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the corn will cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture.

Step 4: Air Fry the Corn

Place the prepared corn in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Air fry the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through for even cooking. You should aim for the kernels to be golden brown and slightly crispy.

Step 5: Apply Toppings

Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the air fryer. Brush a generous layer of mayonnaise or crema over the hot corn. Sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve immediately. Enjoy the crispy, creamy, spicy flavors of your homemade Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn!

Variations on Traditional Elotes

While the classic version of Elotes is always a hit, there are many ways you can put a unique twist on this dish. Here are a few variations to consider:

1. Spicy Elotes

For those who like their food extra spicy, increase the amount of chili powder or add some hot sauce to the mayonnaise mixture. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or drizzle a bit of sriracha over the top for an added kick.

2. Cheesy Elotes

For a cheesy twist, mix a combination of cotija cheese and shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese. This will give the corn a richer, gooier texture. You could even sprinkle some Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

3. Smoky Elotes

Add a bit of smoked paprika to the chili powder or use chipotle chili powder to infuse a smoky flavor into the corn. This will give it a depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the corn.

4. Vegan Elotes

For a vegan version, swap out the mayonnaise and crema for plant-based alternatives, such as vegan sour cream or cashew cream. You can also use a dairy-free cheese like vegan cotija for the topping.

5. BBQ Elotes

Brush the corn with a tangy barbecue sauce before air frying for a fun take on the classic Elotes. You can top it with crispy fried onions and cilantro for extra flavor.

Each variation offers something different while maintaining the essence of the beloved Mexican street corn. Feel free to experiment with these options and make the dish your own!

How to Serve Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn (Elotes)

Once your Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Here are some ideas on how to present and pair the dish:

Serving Suggestions

• On the Cob: Serve the corn on the cob, just like the traditional street food. Place the corn in a serving dish or arrange them on a platter for easy sharing.
• Cut into Rounds: For a more elegant presentation or to serve in smaller portions, you can slice the corn into rounds after cooking. This also makes it easier to serve at parties or as appetizers.

Side Dishes to Pair With Elotes

Mexican Street Corn is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Here are a few ideas:

• Grilled Meats: Serve with grilled chicken, steak, or pork for a complete meal.
• Tacos: Elotes are a perfect side dish to complement a taco spread, adding both flavor and texture.
• Salads: Pair with a refreshing Mexican-style salad, such as a cucumber and tomato salad, for balance.

Garnishing for Extra Flavor

Top your corn with additional cilantro, a sprinkle of chili powder, or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn is a simple, yet incredibly flavorful dish that brings the vibrant taste of Mexico straight to your kitchen. With just a few ingredients and the convenience of an air fryer, you can enjoy this classic street food in no time. Whether you stick to the traditional toppings or experiment with creative variations, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe with frozen corn?

Yes, you can use frozen corn, but it’s best to thaw it first. Frozen corn can sometimes have more moisture, so you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid a soggy texture.

2. What if I don’t have cotija cheese?

If you don’t have cotija cheese, you can substitute it with another crumbly cheese like feta. However, cotija’s salty and tangy flavor is what makes it ideal for Elotes, so feta is a great alternative.

3. Can I make vegan Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn?

Yes, to make a vegan version, use a plant-based mayonnaise or crema and replace the cotija cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

4. How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain its crispy texture.

5. Can I use a different cooking method if I don’t have an air fryer?

Yes, you can also grill the corn on the cob or roast it in the oven if you don’t have an air fryer. Grill or roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.