A delicious and elevated version of street corn that captures the essence of a copycat restaurant snack. Perfect for a weekend cookout or Friday-night tailgate, this dish is sure to become a new favorite!
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper to create a spicy seasoning blend. Set aside.
Brush the corn with lime juice and place it on the grill. Cook for 5 7 minutes, turning occasionally until slightly charred and tender, but still crisp. Remove from heat.
While the corn is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the seasoning blend to create a smoky, spicy sauce.
Carefully remove the corn from the grill and brush with the prepared sauce, making sure it's evenly coated. Sprinkle cotija cheese over each ear of corn, followed by a generous sprinkling of chopped cilantro.
Return the corn to the grill for an additional 1 2 minutes to slightly melt the cheese and warm the flavors. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Using a sharp knife, carefully remove the kernels from each ear of corn and place them in a serving dish. Finish with a sprinkle of lime zest for an extra burst of flavor.
Chefβs Insight
The key to this dish is the perfect balance of flavors - smoky, spicy, sweet, and tangy. Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasoning combinations or toppings for your own unique twist!
Notes
For a spicier version, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to the seasoning blend.