Looking for that tantalizing touch to kick your grilled corn, meats, or veggies up a notch? You’re in for a treat with elote seasonings! Trust me, there’s nothing quite like slathering this seasoning on your fresh corn on the cob, or even tossing it in your favorite veggie mix.
It’s that extra pop of flavor that takes your summer cookouts from good to unforgettable.
Elote, or Mexican street corn, isn’t just a treat enjoyed at fairs and food trucks; it’s a way to elevate your outdoor gatherings. This simple corn dish, smothered in mayonnaise, cheese, and spices, deserves to be a staple in every summer menu. But here’s a twist: what if you could bottle up that vibrant flavor and sprinkle it on just about anything?
Enter elote seasonings—a fantastic blend that brings the spirit of this beloved dish straight to your kitchen.
You Might Like These Recipes!
Easy Ways To Cook Green Beans Recipe
How to Cook Easy Mexican Rice In Rice Cooker Recipe
What is Elote Seasonings?
Elote seasonings capture the essence of Mexican street corn. It’s a mix of spices and flavors that transforms fresh ingredients into a zesty experience. Traditionally used to dress grilled corn, these seasonings can elevate a variety of dishes, from tacos to salads, showing just how versatile they can really be.
How Does It Taste Like?
The flavor profile of elote seasonings is vibrant and bold. You’ll encounter a delightful warmth from the chili powders, a slight smokiness from the chipotle, and a punch of tang from the lime. The touch of Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth, while the sugar balances the spice with a hint of sweetness. It’s an explosion of flavors that dances on your palate and keeps you coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This?
You’ll adore this elote seasoning for its ease and versatility. With just a few minutes of prep and a handful of pantry staples, you’re set to create something that enhances almost any dish. Plus, it’s gluten-free! Whether you’re roasting corn on the cob, grilling chicken, or spicing up a salad, you’ll find that this seasoning adds just the right flair without requiring hours of effort.
The Ingredients
Here’s a unique twist on the ingredient list, perfect for whipping up your elote seasonings. You’ll need:
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 tablespoon guajillo or ancho chili powder (regular chili powder works as well)
– 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
– 2 teaspoons chipotle powder (smoked paprika is a good substitute)
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (dried)
– 2 teaspoons dried cilantro
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried lime zest (see below for instructions)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 teaspoon onion powder (adds a sweet bite)
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked salt (for extra flavor depth)
Ingredients From : daringgourmet.com
How to Make Elote Seasonings?
Creating your own elote seasonings is both easy and rewarding. It involves just a couple of primary steps: preparing the lime zest and then mixing everything together. Let’s dive in!
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Lime Zest
To achieve that zesty kick, you’ll first need to create your lime zest. Preheat your oven to about 170-180°F (75-80°C). Carefully grate the zest from one lime—make sure to only take the green part, avoiding the bitter white pith. Spread this zest out on a plate and pop it in the oven for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want it to dry out without browning. Once that time’s up, let it cool completely before crumbling it into smaller bits with your fingers.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl (or even a jar!), gather all your prepared ingredients: the chili powder, guajillo or ancho chili powder, sweet paprika, chipotle powder, grated Parmesan, dried cilantro, cumin, garlic powder, lime zest, sugar, and the salt and cayenne pepper. If you decided to add onion powder and smoked salt, toss those in as well.
Step 3: Mix and Store
Now, here’s the fun part! Use a spoon to stir everything together vigorously until it’s harmoniously blended. If you’re using a jar, give it a good shake. Once combined, transfer your seasoning to an airtight glass jar. This can be stored in the fridge for up to a month or used at room temperature within a week.
Tips on Making Elote Seasonings
Here are some handy tips to make your elote seasonings even better:
– Use Fresh Spices: Old spices can lose flavor, so check the freshness of your spices before use.
– Adjust Heat Level: If you prefer less spice, cut back on the cayenne pepper or chipotle powder.
– Mix in Extra Flavor: Consider adding a touch of lemon zest for a citrusy contrast.
– Try Different Cheeses: Experimenting with different cheese can add a fun twist in flavor.
– Make a Big Batch: Double or triple the ingredients and store them for quick access for future recipes.
Storage Tips
Storing your elote seasonings is a breeze. Transfer the mixture into a dry, airtight glass jar. Keeping it in the fridge can help maintain its aroma and flavor for up to a month. If you prefer it at room temperature, just make sure to use it within a week to retain its potency.
Nutrition Information
This elote seasoning is relatively low in calories, with each teaspoon containing about 10 calories. Most of the ingredients are spices and herbs, which means they are low in fat but packed with flavor. This makes it a smart addition for those watching their calorie intake but still wanting a punch of taste!
Serving Suggestions
Here are five delicious ways to showcase your elote seasonings:
– Grilled Corn on the Cob: Just mix the seasoning with some butter or mayo and slather it on your grilled corn.
– Fish Tacos: Sprinkle some elote seasoning on grilled fish for a zesty taco filling.
– Roasted Veggies: Toss your favorite vegetables with olive oil and elote seasonings before roasting.
– Popcorn: Transform your movie night by tossing your popcorn with a sprinkle of the elote seasonings for a spicy twist.
– Grilled Chicken: Marinate chicken breasts with the seasoning for a flavor-packed main dish.
What Other Substitute Can I Use in Elote Seasonings?
Here are some great substitutes:
– Paprika: If you don’t have sweet paprika, smoked paprika can step in without losing much flavor.
– Parmesan Cheese: Feta cheese provides a tangy, creamy alternative.
– Cumin: Ground coriander can offer a herbal note instead.
– Chili Powder: If you can’t find chili powder, you can blend cayenne and sweet paprika.
– Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic can replace garlic powder if you prefer a fresher taste.
Elote Seasonings
Equipment
- Grater
- Oven
- Bowl
- Jar
Ingredients
- Here’s a unique twist on the ingredient list perfect for whipping up your elote seasonings. You’ll need:
- – 1 tablespoon chili powder
- – 1 tablespoon guajillo or ancho chili powder regular chili powder works as well
- – 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- – 2 teaspoons chipotle powder smoked paprika is a good substitute
- – 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese dried
- – 2 teaspoons dried cilantro
- – 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- – 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- – 1 teaspoon dried lime zest see below for instructions
- – 1 teaspoon sugar
- – 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
- – 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- – 1 teaspoon onion powder adds a sweet bite
- – 1/2 teaspoon smoked salt for extra flavor depth
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lime Zest
- To achieve that zesty kick, you’ll first need to create your lime zest. Preheat your oven to about 170-180°F (75-80°C). Carefully grate the zest from one lime—make sure to only take the green part, avoiding the bitter white pith. Spread this zest out on a plate and pop it in the oven for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want it to dry out without browning. Once that time’s up, let it cool completely before crumbling it into smaller bits with your fingers.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl (or even a jar!), gather all your prepared ingredients: the chili powder, guajillo or ancho chili powder, sweet paprika, chipotle powder, grated Parmesan, dried cilantro, cumin, garlic powder, lime zest, sugar, and the salt and cayenne pepper. If you decided to add onion powder and smoked salt, toss those in as well.
Step 3: Mix and Store
- Now, here’s the fun part! Use a spoon to stir everything together vigorously until it’s harmoniously blended. If you’re using a jar, give it a good shake. Once combined, transfer your seasoning to an airtight glass jar. This can be stored in the fridge for up to a month or used at room temperature within a week.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I make elote seasonings without lime zest?
Yes, but lime zest adds a distinct tang that enhances the flavors. You can omit it if necessary but try to substitute with a squeeze of lime juice when using the seasoning.
2. How long does the elote seasoning stay fresh?
In the fridge, your elote seasoning will keep its vibrancy for about a month. At room temperature, it’s best used within a week.
3. Is there a gluten-free version of elote seasonings?
Absolutely! All the ingredients in this blend are naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for anyone with gluten sensitivities.
4. Can I use fresh herbs in this recipe?
While the mix is specifically dried, feel free to experiment with fresh cilantro or parsley. Just know that the flavor profile will likely vary a bit!
5. How should I store the seasoning?
Store it in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator or a cool, dark place. Keeping the ingredients dry is key to maintaining their flavor.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Making your own elote seasonings is effortless and rewarding. With just a handful of common ingredients and a dash of creativity, you’ll unlock the flavors of summer in every dish you prepare.
Whether you’re grilling corn, spicing up chicken or jazzing up veggies, this seasoning mix ensures you’re always ready for a flavorful meal. Give it a try and enjoy the burst of vibrant flavors that this little jar brings to your table!