How to Make Esquites - A Step-by-Step Guide

Esquites, also known as Mexican street corn salad, is a popular and delicious dish that is often found at street stalls and food markets throughout Mexico. This flavorful and colorful snack is made with roasted or boiled corn kernels that are mixed with a variety of seasonings and toppings, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal or a great dish to enjoy on its own.

The origins of esquites can be traced back to pre-Hispanic times when corn was a staple food in the diet of the in...

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Ingredients

  • 2 gallons water
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 4 ears yellow corn
  • mesquite wood chips
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder
  • 5 tablespoons crumbled cotija cheese
  • 3 tablespoons Mexican crema
  • ⅓ bunch chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice

Information

  • Prep Time: 5 mins
  • Cook Time: 55 mins
  • Additional Time: 1 hr 10 mins
  • Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
  • Servings: 6
  • Yield: 6 servings

  • Combine water and sugar in a large bowl and stir well. Leaving corn in husks, soak for at least 1 hour.
  • Preheat an outdoor grill for low heat with mesquite chips in the wood box. Lightly oil the grate.
  • Grill corn, still in husks, for 45 minutes. Remove from grill and let cool before shucking.
  • Cut corn from the cobs and combine with chili powder. Saute corn kernels in a skillet over medium heat, tossing frequently, until you see come charring, about 5 minutes.
  • Add cotija cheese, crema, cilantro, and salt and cook until warmed through, about 4 more minutes. Spritz with lime juice and serve immediately.
  • Nutrition

    265 cal.

    • Total Fat: 8g
    • Saturated Fat: 4g
    • Cholesterol: 23mg
    • Sodium: 612mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 48g
    • Dietary Fiber: 3g
    • Total Sugars: 36g
    • Protein: 5g
    • Vitamin C: 9mg
    • Calcium: 134mg
    • Iron: 1mg
    • Potassium: 284mg