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Creamy Mexican Street Corn in a Cup (Esquites)

Creamy Mexican Street Corn in a Cup (Esquites) is a quick and flavorful Mexican snack made with charred corn, lime, crema, chili, and Cotija cheese.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 / 6 servings
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream)
  • 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and allow it to melt.
  2. Add corn kernels and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly charred.
  3. Transfer the corn to a mixing bowl and let it cool slightly.
  4. Stir in mayonnaise, crema, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, and half of the Cotija cheese.
  5. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Spoon the mixture into serving cups, sprinkle with the remaining Cotija cheese, extra chili powder, and chopped cilantro.
  7. Serve warm with lime wedges on the side for extra zest.