Smoked Street Corn (Elote)

Smoked Street Corn (Elote)

Give this traditional favorite a try! I made this for the first time a few weeks ago and it's been on my mind since! It might not be the first thing you think of when you think of smoked food but I guarantee it will be a welcomed addition! Seen below paired with some awesome ribs also smoked on my Humphrey's Weekender it's a fantastic stand alone or addition to any BBQ plate!

Ingredients:

  • 4 ears of fresh corn, partially husked
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)

Equipment:

  • Smoker or grill with a smoking box
  • Wood chips (Apple, hickory, or your preferred choice)

Instructions: 

Prepare the Smoker or Grill:

  • Preheat your smoker to 250°F. If using a grill, prepare it for indirect heat and set up a smoking box with wood chips.
  • Place the wood chips in the smoker or in the grill’s smoking box.

Smoke the Corn:

  • Place the husked corn directly on the smoker/grill grates.
  • Close the lid and smoke the corn for about 45-60 minutes, or until the corn is tender and has a smoky aroma. Rotate the corn occasionally for even cooking.

Prepare the mixtures:

  • While the corn is smoking, mix the mayonnaise, chili powder, and 1 tablespoon of lime juice in a small bowl, this will be your base.
  • In another small bowl, combine the parsley and Cotija cheese, this will be your 'coating'.

Put it all together:

  • Once the corn is smoked and cooked through, remove it from the smoker/grill.
  • Let the corn cool slightly so it’s easier to handle.
  • Using a brush or spoon, coat each ear of corn with the mayonnaise mixture.
  • Then roll or sprinkle your Cotija/ parsley mixture on top

Tips:

  • For an extra smoky flavor, you can add a bit of smoked paprika to the chili powder and Cotija cheese mixture.
  • Feel free to substitute the parsley with cilantro for a more traditional flavor.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the chili powder.
  • Squeeze a bit more lime juice over the top for a zesty kick.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste if needed.

Enjoy your deliciously smoky street corn! I've seen quite a few posts lately looking for vegetarian options for their next get-together or cook out and this is definitely a great one! Give it a shot and let us know what you think! Tag us on Facebook or Instagram @HumphreysBBQ with your results!

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.