Mexican-Style Charcoal-Grilled Corn

To make elotes, Mexican street vendors slather grilled corn with a creamy, spicy sauce. Could we deliver similar flavors in our own backyard?

A cookbook recipe exclusively for ATK Essential members from The Complete Summer Cookbook

YIELD 6

The Complete Summer CookbookA cookbook recipe exclusively for ATK Essential members from The Complete Summer Cookbook

Why This Recipe Works

Gather Your Ingredients

Key Equipment

Key Equipment - The Best Kitchen Tongs
Key Equipment - Measuring Spoons
Key Equipment - The Best Chimney Starters

Before You Begin

*

If both queso fresco and cotija cheese are unavailable, substitute 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano.

Instructions

1.

Light large chimney starter filled with charcoal (6 quarts, about 100 briquettes) and allow to burn until coals are fully ignited and partially covered with thin layer of ash, about 20 minutes. Arrange all coals in even layer over half of grill, leaving other half empty. Position cooking grate over coals, cover grill, and heat grate until hot, about 5 minutes; scrape grate clean with grill brush. Dip wad of paper towels in vegetable oil; holding wad with tongs, wipe cooking grate.

2.

While grill is heating, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, garlic, 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, black pepper, cayenne (if using), lime juice, and cheese in large bowl; set aside. In second large bowl, combine oil, salt, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; add corn and toss until coated evenly.

3.

Grill corn over coals, turning occasionally, until lightly charred on all sides, 7 to 12 minutes total. Remove from grill and place in bowl with mayonnaise mixture; toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately.

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