When a Trader Joe’s seasoning blend captures everyone’s attention, you know it’s worth exploring. But what’s even more rewarding is crafting your own version at home, especially when homemade seasonings become a passion. Inspired by the viral sensation, this DIY Mexican Street Corn Seasoning recipe takes the beloved flavors of elote and puts them right at your fingertips, and in my opinion, it’s even better than store-bought options.
Scooping homemade Mexican street corn seasoning, a flavorful blend of spices for authentic taste.
This homemade mexican street corn seasoning boasts a richer spice profile, a hint of smokiness, and a balanced sweetness that outshines the pre-made alternatives. Making it in larger batches ensures you always have this flavor powerhouse ready in your pantry. Not only is it perfect for quickly whipping up a batch of our irresistible Elote Corn Dip, but it also serves as a fantastic and flavorful substitute for your regular taco seasoning!
What’s in Mexican Street Corn Seasoning?
Elote, the Spanish word for “corn,” refers to the iconic Mexican street food: corn on the cob grilled to smoky perfection. It’s then generously coated in a creamy, zesty mixture of chili, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, garlic, and cilantro, finished with a squeeze of fresh lime.
Mexican street corn seasoning captures the essence of biting into that delicious ear of elote, delivering the vibrant flavors without needing the corn itself. It’s a chili-forward blend, bursting with spice and a savory, salty depth.
This vibrant spice blend includes:
- Chili Powder – The foundation of this seasoning, providing that essential spicy kick.
- Cumin – A touch of cumin adds warmth and earthy undertones, creating depth of flavor.
- Smoked Paprika – Smoked paprika introduces a delightful smokiness, enhancing the grilled corn flavor. Chipotle powder can also be used for an extra layer of smoky heat.
- Sugar – Just a hint of sugar balances the spices and rounds out the overall flavor profile. Unlike many store-bought blends, sugar is not a dominant ingredient here.
- Garlic and Onion Powder – Garlic and onion powder contribute savory notes, creating a well-rounded and flavorful seasoning.
Unlike some commercial versions, this homemade mexican street corn seasoning recipe doesn’t include dehydrated cheese. For that authentic cheesy, creamy elote experience, simply stir in crumbled cotija or grated parmesan cheese right before you use it.
Another key component of authentic elote is lime. To incorporate that citrusy zing, consider adding dehydrated lime zest to your seasoning blend, similar to how lemon zest is used in lemon pepper seasoning. You can purchase dehydrated lime zest or make your own. Alternatively, a touch of lemon zest can also provide a bright citrus note.
Let’s Make It!
Ready to make your own mexican street corn seasoning? The process couldn’t be simpler!
Whether you’re using it immediately or preparing a batch for future culinary adventures, start with a bowl. For storing larger quantities, an airtight container, ideally glass to preserve the flavors, is perfect.
Then, just combine all the spices in your bowl or jar and mix until everything is thoroughly incorporated. It’s truly that easy!
Mixing the dry spices for DIY Mexican street corn seasoning in a bowl, easy homemade recipe.
Delicious Ways to Use Your Homemade Mexican Street Corn Seasoning
As mentioned, for an extra layer of authentic elote flavor, consider stirring in grated parmesan or cotija cheese when you’re ready to use your mexican street corn seasoning. These cheeses add that signature salty, cheesy element reminiscent of street corn.
Don’t forget the fresh toppings that make elote truly special: fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice are essential! Dried cilantro simply can’t replicate the vibrant flavor of fresh.
Now that you’re ready to elevate your dishes, explore the incredible versatility of this seasoning:
- Elote Corn Dip: The most obvious choice! Use it to create a flavorful base for your dip.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sprinkle it on grilled corn for an authentic street corn experience.
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss with roasted vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for a flavor boost.
- Tacos and Fajitas: Use it as a taco seasoning for beef, chicken, or vegetarian fillings.
- Eggs: Season scrambled eggs or omelets for a Southwestern-inspired breakfast.
- Popcorn: Elevate your movie night popcorn with a sprinkle of this savory seasoning.
- Chicken or Fish: Rub it on chicken or fish before grilling or baking for a flavorful main course.
- Nachos and Quesadillas: Add it to your favorite Mexican-inspired appetizers for an extra kick.
Did you make this recipe? Please leave a star rating and review in the form below. Your feedback is appreciated and helps other home cooks!
Jar of homemade Mexican street corn seasoning, ready to enhance your favorite dishes with authentic flavor.
Get the Recipe DIY 5-Minute Mexican Street Corn Seasoning
Prep: 5 minutes mins
Total: 5 minutes mins
Servings: 5 servings (1 TBSP)
Make this homemade mexican street corn seasoning to add a burst of flavor to corn-on-the-cob, roasted veggies, tacos, and so much more!
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- In a bowl, add all of the ingredients and whisk or stir until completely incorporated together. Or, shake them together in a jar. Store in an airtight container in a dark cupboard for up to six months.
- When using the seasoning, stir in cotija cheese crumbles or grated parmesan cheese for the creamy, cheesy factor. You can also add buttermilk powder, which can be stored in the seasoning blend, but in the fridge.
- I also recommend adding fresh lime juice to the dish, or adding fresh lemon zest to the seasoning when using (you will need to dehydrate it to store the blend with zest).
Notes
- This mix yields approximately 4 1/2-5 tablespoons.
Serving: 1TBSP
Author: Becca Mills
Did you make this recipe? Please leave a star rating and review in the form below. I appreciate your feedback, and it helps others, too!
Seasonings
posted by Becca Mills on September 5, 2023 (last updated Nov 15, 2024)
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