Welcome to Paulina Cocina! Come in, sir, madam, make yourselves comfortable, and prepare for a recipe that will surprise your palate. We've already shared a ton of recipes with corn, and they're all delicious, but Mexican esquites have so many variations and options that it's hard to say no .
They can be eaten as a main meal or as part of a snack. They're even sold at some street stalls because their presentation makes them easy to eat anywhere.
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About esquites
Esquites are a typical Mexican dish that has become a popular street delicacy throughout the country. They are made from tender corn kernels, known as elote, which are cooked and served in a glass or cup with a variety of delicious condiments and flavors.
Getting to know the esquites
This dish is a true example of Mexico's culinary riches. Esquite is a typical Mexican street food dish consisting of cooked sweet corn kernels seasoned with various condiments and accompaniments.
This delicious treat is known for its comforting flavor and versatility, as it can be customized to suit individual tastes. It's commonly served in glasses or cups and is a popular choice for those seeking a tasty, traditional snack.
What does the word esquites mean?
Esquites is a term derived from Nahuatl , the indigenous language of the Aztecs and other indigenous groups in Mexico. In Nahuatl, "izquitl" means "tender corn kernel," and this is the main ingredient in this dish. Its name reflects its main ingredient, corn, which has been fundamental to the Mexican diet and culture for millennia.
Corn, and by extension esquites , plays an iconic role in Mexico's history and culinary identity. Esquites are a representation of the country's culinary richness, as they can vary in flavor and presentation depending on the region and personal preferences.
This delicious corn preparation has become an integral part of Mexican food culture, and its name is a window into Mexico's indigenous heritage and culinary traditions.
Main ingredients of this preparation
It's a typical Mexican dish that primarily contains tender corn kernels, also known as elote . However, what makes these truly delicious are the accompaniments and seasonings that are added.
The additional ingredients used for seasoning and flavoring can vary according to personal preferences and regional traditions. The combination creates a balance of flavors and textures that make them so delicious and popular.
Some of the most common condiments include:
- chili powder , which adds a spicy touch
- cream , provides creaminess and softness;
- grated cheese , adds saltiness and flavor
- lemon juice , offers a refreshing citrus touch;
- and sometimes mayonnaise , which gives it additional flavor and a smooth, creamy texture.
Recipe variations
- Prepared Esquites : These are a more elaborate variation of this Mexican dish. In addition to the basic ingredients like corn, chili powder, and sour cream, other ingredients are often added, such as chopped onion, fresh cilantro, hot sauce, and even pieces of pork rind. These additional ingredients add greater complexity of flavor and texture to the dish, making it a more complete culinary experience.
- How to Make Boiled Esquites with Epazote : To make boiled esquites with epazote, first cook the sweetcorn kernels in salted water until tender. Then, add epazote leaves, a Mexican aromatic herb, which will add a unique, slightly citrusy flavor to your esquites. Cook for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to blend. The epazote will add a touch of freshness and authenticity to this version of boiled esquites.
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Mexican esquites recipe
Yield : 4 portions
Preparation time : 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 cups of tender corn kernels (corn on the cob)
- 2 tablespoons of butter or vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup of crumbled cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 lemon juice
How to make Mexican esquites step by step
- Boil the corn kernels in lightly salted water for about 5-7 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt the butter or heat the oil over medium heat. Add the cooked corn kernels and sauté for a few minutes until lightly browned.
- In a small bowl, mix the sour cream or Mexican cream with the mayonnaise and lemon juice.
- Place the sautéed corn kernels in individual cups or mugs. Top with the sour cream and mayonnaise mixture. Sprinkle with fresh cheese and chili powder to taste.
- Serve esquites while they're hot. They're usually eaten with long spoons to make it easier to reach the condiments at the bottom.
