Name: Mexican Street Corn Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lb corn kernels (fresh or frozen); ⅓ cup crumbled cotija or queso fresco; ¼ cup mayonnaise; ¼ cup sour cream or Mexican crema; 1½ tsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin ((optional)); ¼ tsp smoked paprika ((optional)); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cloves garlic, finely minced; 1 small jalapeño, finely diced ((optional for heat)); ¼ cup chopped cilantro; 2 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp olive oil or neutral cooking oil; Juice of 1 lime; Zest of 1 lime; Tortillas, rice, or chips for serving

Introduction to Mexican Street Corn Shrimp

Why Mexican Street Corn Shrimp is a must-try dish?

Imagine the sun setting over a bustling street festival in Oaxaca, with delicious scents wafting through the air. One of the standout flavors you’ll encounter is the irresistible elote, or Mexican street corn. In this recipe for Mexican Street Corn Shrimp, I capture that vibrant taste and bring it straight to your dining table.

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The delightful combination of smoky, charred corn sautéed with shrimp and brightened by lime and fresh herbs creates a flavor profile that dances on your palate. According to Mexican Food Journal, combining seafood with corn is a beloved tradition, uniting the land and sea in one harmonious bite.

Cooking this dish also offers an opportunity to gather friends and family, fostering connections over shared plates. Picture warm tortillas filled with creamy shrimp and corn, topped with crumbly cotija cheese and fresh cilantro. Each bite transports you back to those lively streets, reminding you that good food is about more than just sustenance—it’s about celebration and community. So why not invite your loved ones over for a taste of Mexico this season? You’ll be glad you did!

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Shrimp

Creating the perfect Mexican Street Corn Shrimp doesn’t require unearthing hidden treasures from the pantry; rather, it's about selecting fresh, vibrant ingredients that harmonize beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delightful dish to life:

Shrimp: 1 lb of raw shrimp, peeled and deveined for that juicy, tender bite.
Corn: 1 lb of corn kernels, either fresh, which adds a natural sweetness, or frozen for convenience.
Butter and Oil: 2 tablespoon of butter plus 1 tablespoon of olive or neutral oil to ensure everything cooks perfectly.
Aromatics: 2 cloves of finely minced garlic and 1 small diced jalapeño for a touch of kick (feel free to adjust to your heat preference).
Creaminess: Make a simple sauce with ¼ cup of mayonnaise and ¼ cup of sour cream or Mexican crema—this blends rich flavors seamlessly.
Seasonings: Zest and juice of 1 lime, 1½ teaspoon of chili powder, and optional spices like ground cumin and smoked paprika.
For Garnish: ⅓ cup crumbled cotija cheese and ¼ cup chopped cilantro.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to craft an extraordinary meal! Want to dive deeper into the flavors of Mexican cuisine? Check out this resource on cooking techniques.

Preparing Mexican Street Corn Shrimp

Bringing the vibrant flavors of Mexican street food into your home is easier than you might think, and this guide to preparing Mexican Street Corn Shrimp will walk you through it step by step. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress.

Marinate the shrimp

First things first: we need to give our shrimp some love. In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with ½ teaspoon chili powder, ground cumin, a pinch of smoked paprika, lime zest, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The acid from the lime not only adds brightness but also helps to tenderize the shrimp. Let this marinate while you prepare the corn. Trust me, this step will infuse your shrimp with an irresistible flavor.

Sauté the corn

Next up is the corn, the star of the show. Heat a large skillet on medium-high and add 1 tablespoon of butter along with a drizzle of neutral oil. Once melted, add your corn kernels (fresh are ideal, but frozen will work too). Season with a pinch of salt and allow them to cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to char a bit. That caramelization brings out the sweetness in the corn and elevates the entire dish. For more tips on cooking fresh corn, check out this resource on corn preparation.

Add aromatics for flavor

When your corn is golden and fragrant, it’s time to enhance those flavors further. Push the corn to one side of the skillet and add your minced garlic and diced jalapeño (if you're feeling adventurous!). Sauté this aromatic mixture for about a minute until everything is nicely fragrant. Then, mix it all together, allowing the flavors to marry.

Cook the shrimp to perfection

Making sure the skillet is hot, add the remaining butter to the open space and add your marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns opaque and lightly golden. This step ensures your shrimp are perfectly juicy and full of flavor. Once done, gently fold them into the corn mixture, turning off the heat.

Make the creamy sauce

Now, let's create that luscious creamy sauce that ties everything together. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Mexican crema for authenticity), fresh lime juice, the remaining chili powder, and a dash of salt. Give it a taste and adjust as needed; maybe it's more lime you want, or just a pinch more salt. This sauce is about enhancing flavors and creaminess.

Assemble the dish

To bring it all together, off the heat, fold in about half of your creamy sauce with the shrimp and corn. Mix gently until everything is coated. Serve warm, topped with crumbled cotija cheese, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Whether you serve it with warm tortillas, rice, or tortilla chips, this Mexican Street Corn Shrimp dish offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will make every bite memorable.

By following these steps, you'll not only create a delicious meal but also take your taste buds on a journey, reminiscent of vibrant Mexican streets. Happy cooking!

Variations on Mexican Street Corn Shrimp

Vegetarian Alternatives

Looking to enjoy the flavors of Mexican Street Corn Shrimp without seafood? Replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a delightful vegetarian twist! Not only are these options delicious, but they also soak up all that fantastic crema and spices. For an added protein kick, consider tossing in chickpeas or black beans.

Different Seafood Options

If shrimp isn't your thing, fear not! There are plenty of seafood alternatives that pair wonderfully with this dish. Try using scallops, fish like tilapia or mahi-mahi, or even crab meat for a luxurious touch. Each option offers a unique texture but still delivers that authentic Mexican street food vibe. Why not mix and match to create a personalized version that’s perfect for you?

For more inspiration, check out these creative seafood recipes.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Mexican Street Corn Shrimp

Creating Mexican Street Corn Shrimp is all about balance and flavor. Here are some essential tips to elevate your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn adds a natural sweetness that frozen corn may lack. If you can, shop at local farmers' markets for the best corn during peak season.
Don’t Rush the Sauté: Allow the corn to get a little charred; this enhances its flavor. If it’s sticking, a splash of water can help deglaze the pan.
Customize Your Heat Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño or chili powder according to your spice preference. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Serve Fresh: The dish is best enjoyed the day you make it, especially if you pair it with warm tortillas or crispy chips.

Remember, the joy is in sharing this flavorful experience, so gather friends or family and enjoy! For extra inspiration, check out community forums like The Kitchn for variations and tips from other home cooks.

Serving Suggestions for Mexican Street Corn Shrimp

When it comes to enjoying your Mexican Street Corn Shrimp, the serving options are as vibrant as the dish itself! Consider these delightful ways to plate and relish your meal:

Tortillas: Warm up corn or flour tortillas to scoop up the shrimp and corn mixture. It's a fantastic way to create your own little taco-style bites.
Over Rice: Serve the dish over a fluffy bed of rice—basmati or cilantro-lime rice enhances the flavors beautifully.
With Chips: If you're in the mood for something crisp, pair the shrimp with tortilla chips for a satisfying dip. It’s perfect for gatherings!
Garnish Generously: Top with extra cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime to elevate every bite.

Feel free to mix and match these serving suggestions for a fun and casual dining experience! Would you try it with any of your favorite sides?

Time Breakdown for Mexican Street Corn Shrimp

Preparation Time

Gathering ingredients and prepping your Mexican Street Corn Shrimp takes about 15 minutes. This includes peeling and deveining the shrimp, cutting the corn (if fresh), and prepping your veggies.

Cooking Time

Cooking up this delicious dish will take around 15 minutes. You’ll sauté the corn and shrimp together for that perfect blend of flavors.

Total Time

In just 30 minutes, you can bring a taste of Mexican street food right to your dining table! Perfect for busy weeknights or an impressive weekend meal.

For more tips on timing and cooking techniques, check out this cooking guide.

Nutritional Facts for Mexican Street Corn Shrimp

Calories

Each serving of Mexican Street Corn Shrimp packs around 440 calories, making it a satisfying option that still allows room for indulgence during your meal.

Protein

Loaded with shrimp, this delightful dish offers approximately 30 grams of protein per serving, contributing to muscle repair and keeping you feeling full longer.

Sodium

Be mindful of the sodium content, which hovers around 800 mg per serving. This is primarily from the cotija cheese and seasonings. Consider adjusting the salt levels if you're watching your sodium intake!

For more insights into the nutritional benefits of shrimp, check out sources like Healthline and USDA. Enjoy your cooking!

FAQs about Mexican Street Corn Shrimp

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using frozen shrimp is a convenient option and can save you time. Just make sure to thaw them properly by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or using the quick method of running them under cold water. Once thawed, they're ready to soak up the delicious flavors with the corn and spices in this Mexican Street Corn Shrimp dish.

How can I adjust the spice level?
Want more heat? Simply increase the amount of jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. Prefer it milder? You can either reduce the jalapeño or leave it out entirely. Taste your crema as you mix to find the perfect balance for your palate!

What's the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your Mexican Street Corn Shrimp fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last about 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to retain its creamy texture, and consider adding a splash of lime juice for an extra zing! For more tips on storing seafood, check out sources like SeafoodHealthFacts.org.

Conclusion on Mexican Street Corn Shrimp

Incorporating Mexican Street Corn Shrimp into your recipe repertoire promises a delightful fusion of flavors and comfort. This dish is perfect for gatherings, evoking vibrant memories of summer street festivals. Elevate any meal with this recipe that celebrates seasonal ingredients and creates delicious memories around the table. Enjoy!