Mexican Corn in a Cup
A street-food favorite from Mexico, this dish transforms sweet corn into a creamy, tangy, and spicy snack. Corn is tossed with mayonnaise, lime juice, cheese, and chili powder, served in a cup for easy eating. Perfect for parties, street-food nights, or a flavorful snack.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5–7 minutes
Total Time: 10–12 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Corn
3 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce
3 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp sour cream
1 tsp lime juice
½ tsp chili powder or paprika
¼ tsp garlic powder
Salt, to taste
For the Topping
¼ cup crumbled Cotija cheese
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, cut into wedges
Optional: sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne for extra heat
Instructions
1. Cook the Corn
Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add corn and saute 5–7 minutes until lightly golden and slightly caramelized.
Remove from heat.
2. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
Mayonnaise
Sour cream (if using)
Lime juice
Chili powder
Garlic powder
Salt
3. Assemble the Cups
Divide cooked corn into 4 cups or small bowls.
Drizzle or toss with prepared sauce.
Sprinkle Cotija cheese and chopped cilantro on top.
Optional: add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne.
Serve with a lime wedge for squeezing.
Serving Ideas
Great as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.
Pair with tacos, burritos, or grilled meats.
Perfect for party buffet or street-food style gatherings.
Tips
Use fresh corn for the sweetest flavor; frozen works fine too.
Adjust chili powder to taste — keep it mild for kids.
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter, tangier version.
Toast corn slightly for extra smokiness.
Add diced jalapeno for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make it ahead?
Yes, but assemble just before serving to keep corn fresh and crisp.
Q: Can I bake the corn instead of sautéing?
Yes — roast at 200°C / 400°F for 10 minutes for slightly charred flavor.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
Yes — replace mayo with vegan mayo and use vegan cheese or omit.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 220
Protein: 6g
Carbs: 28g
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 4g