Delicious Vegan Esquites: A Dairy-Free Twist on Mexican Street Corn
Esquites, a beloved Mexican street food, traditionally features roasted corn kernels mixed with creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors.
In this vegan rendition, we'll recreate that delightful experience without any dairy, ensuring it's both delicious and plant-based.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You'll Need
4 cups of corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1/3 cup vegan mayonnaise
1 clove garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lime
1/2 small red onion, diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup vegan feta or cotija-style cheese
1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional, for heat)
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Corn:
If using fresh corn, remove the husks and silk.
For a smoky flavor, grill the corn over medium-high heat until charred on all sides, about 10-15 minutes.
Alternatively, roast the corn in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Once cooked, let the corn cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob into a large bowl.
If using frozen corn, thaw and pat dry before roasting in a skillet until slightly charred.
Canned corn should be drained and patted dry before skillet roasting.
Mix the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, combine vegan mayonnaise, minced garlic, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Esquites:
Add the diced red onion, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeño (if using), and vegan cheese to the bowl with the corn.
Pour the dressing over the corn mixture.
Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Taste and Adjust:
Season with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice as desired.
Serving Suggestions
Esquites can be enjoyed warm or chilled, making them versatile for various occasions.
Serve them in individual cups for an authentic street food feel, perfect for parties or gatherings.
They also make a delightful side dish alongside tacos, grilled vegetables, or as a topping for salads and bowls.
Tips and Variations
Cheese Options: If vegan feta or cotija-style cheese isn't available, consider using vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or less chili powder or including the jalapeño seeds.
Herbs: While cilantro is traditional, parsley can be used for those who prefer a different flavor.
Add-Ins: For extra depth, mix in roasted red peppers, diced tomatoes, or avocado chunks.
For a visual guide on making vegan esquites, check out this helpful video:
Enjoy crafting this flavorful and creamy vegan esquites recipe, bringing a taste of Mexican street food right to your kitchen!
Keywords: vegan esquites, Mexican street corn, dairy-free esquites, plant-based Mexican recipes, vegan corn salad