Appetizer & Dessert

Street Corn Dip – Hearty Food Ideas

Name: Street Corn Dip – Hearty Food Ideas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1 ear of grilled corn, kernels removed from the cob; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped; 2 tbsp high-quality extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp smoked paprika; 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 1/2-2 tsp cayenne pepper; Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp chili powder; 6 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature; 4 tbsp salted butter; 1/3 cup olive oil-based mayonnaise; 1/3 cup tangy sour cream; 1/2 tsp cumin; 3/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese; 2 cups fresh corn kernels; 1 tbsp honey

Glennis Annis March 10, 2025

Servings: 8 Total Time: 30 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Ah, street corn dip. Just the name conjures up images of long summer evenings, laughter ringing through the air, and warm evenings spent with friends and family.

As someone who appreciates a good gathering over a dip that’s bursting with flavor, I can assure you this dish is a knockout that deserves a spot at your table. So, let’s take a closer look into what makes street corn dip a must-try.

What is Street Corn Dip?

Street corn dip—a contemporary twist on the classic Mexican street corn (elote)—combines sweet corn, creamy cheese, and vibrant spices into a dish that begs to be dipped.

Typically enjoyed from street vendors in Mexico, I found that transforming this beloved treat into a creamy, shareable dip is not only easy but downright delightful.

In its essence, street corn dip retains that sweet, smokey flavor profile, elevating your snacking experience. Just imagine the warmth of summer days infused in every bite. It offers an explosion of flavors that’s hard to beat.

Why You’ll Love This Street Corn Dip

Here’s the real kicker: you’ll love this dish because it’s not just about the taste, but also about the experience.

The combination of creamy, crunchy, and a hint of spice creates a multi-dimensional dip that’s perfect for parties, game nights, or enjoying on your couch while binge-watching your favorite show.

Picture this: you’re hosting a gathering. You set out a bowl of this dip with some crispy tortilla chips. Within minutes, it’s the centerpiece of attention. Guests rave about it, the atmosphere buzzes, and you feel like a culinary hero. Trust me, there’s a sense of satisfaction that comes from serving up something everyone enjoys.

The Ingredients

Before diving into the detailed steps, let’s ensure we have our ingredients in place. Here’s what you’ll need for an unforgettable street corn dip:

1 ear of grilled corn, kernels removed from the cob
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
2 tbsp high-quality extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
1/2-2 tsp cayenne pepper
Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp chili powder
6 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
4 tbsp salted butter
1/3 cup olive oil-based mayonnaise
1/3 cup tangy sour cream
1/2 tsp cumin
3/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
2 cups fresh corn kernels
1 tbsp honey

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making street corn dip is straightforward. It’s all about bringing the ingredients together in a way that creates harmony.

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Start with the corn. If you haven’t already grilled your corn, fire up that grill! Grill the ear of corn until you see a nice char. Once done, let it cool a bit and then remove the kernels from the cob. This smoky flavor will set the tone for your dip.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Next, let’s develop some deep flavors. In a skillet, melt your butter over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and soft. Now add the minced garlic and continue cooking until the garlic releases its fragrance. This usually takes about a minute.

Step 3: Mix the Cheeses

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Blend these until smooth. Don’t be shy; give it some elbow grease! The creaminess here will be key to a rich dip.

Step 4: Add the Corn and Seasoning

Stir in both the fresh corn kernels and the grilled corn, along with the sautéed onions and garlic. Now add the lime juice, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, honey, and adjust the spice levels with cayenne pepper and salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is well integrated.

Step 5: Stir in the Cotija Cheese

Crumble your cotija cheese into the mixture, tasting as you go. Cotija adds that authentic Mexican flavor we’re all fond of. Stir everything together and give it a final taste. Adjust seasonings as per your preference.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Now, transfer this delightful mixture to a serving bowl. Cover it and let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to marry beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

Here are some handy tips to elevate your street corn dip experience:

Fresh versus Frozen Corn: Using fresh corn will provide the best taste, but frozen works well too.
Grill Marks: If you want to enhance flavors, char the corn directly over flames for added smokiness.
Cooling Time: If you rush this, the dip might not exhibit its full flavor potential. Trust me on this one—chilling makes all the difference.
Customize Spice Levels: Everyone’s heat tolerance is different. Taste as you go; adjust cayenne pepper according to your comfort.
Serving Ideas: This dip shines best when paired with crisp tortilla chips, but it also goes great with veggies or even pita chips.

Can I Store Street Corn Dip?

Absolutely! If you happen to have any leftovers (though I highly doubt it), put them in an airtight container. This dip keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just give it a stir when you’re ready to serve it again.

What Can I Serve with Street Corn Dip?

This dip pairs fabulously with:

Tortilla Chips: The classic vehicle for any dip.
Veggie Sticks: Carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers give a fresh crunch.
Pita Chips: A little different, but classic and loved by all.
Crackers: Get creative; flavored crackers add an extra punch.
Cornbread: For a homestyle feel, serve it with warm cornbread.

Variations of Street Corn Dip

Perhaps you want to put a twist on the classic recipe? Here are some enticing variations:

Spicy Jalapeño Street Corn Dip: Add chopped jalapeños to kick up the heat. Simply fold them in during the mixing process.
Avocado and Lime Street Corn Dip: Mash in ripe avocados for creaminess and a tangy twist. It offers a refreshing flavor and creamy texture.
BBQ Street Corn Dip: Mix in some barbecue sauce for that smoky, sweet touch. Use your favorite brand for this.
Creamy Spinach Street Corn Dip: Toss in some cooked spinach to add a nutritional punch. The flavor combination is unforgettable.
Bacon Street Corn Dip: Crumbled crispy bacon adds a salty crunch. Who could resist bacon, right?

Conclusion

Street corn dip is more than just a crowd-pleaser. It’s a fusion of flavors and cultures served in a simple bowl. Whether it’s for a summer BBQ, game day, or just an evening in with friends, this dip will elevate your snack game to new heights.

I hope you enjoy this culinary adventure as much as I do. So grab your ingredients, gather your friends, and get ready to dip into something truly sensational!

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Print Recipe

Street Corn Dip – Hearty Food Ideas

Author: Glennis Annis Cuisine: Mexican Courses: Appetizer & Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 30 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 282 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Ah, street corn dip. Just the name conjures up images of long summer evenings, laughter ringing through the air, and warm evenings spent with friends and family.