Grilled corn on the cob is a beloved summer staple, especially in Texas where barbecue reigns supreme. This simple yet delicious side dish can be elevated with just a few creative twists. By adding some Tex-Mex flair and unexpected ingredients, you can transform plain grilled corn into a mouthwatering masterpiece.
Texas-style grilled corn offers a perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. With four easy methods to spice up this classic, you’ll have plenty of options to impress your guests at your next cookout or family gathering. These simple techniques require minimal effort but deliver maximum taste, ensuring your grilled corn stands out from the crowd.
1) Chili Lime Butter
Chili lime butter is a zesty and flavorful addition to grilled corn on the cob. This tangy spread combines the heat of chili with the bright citrus notes of lime, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
To prepare chili lime butter, softened butter is mixed with chili powder, lime zest, and fresh lime juice. Some recipes also include minced garlic and chopped cilantro for added depth.
The butter mixture can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until needed. When the corn is hot off the grill, simply slather it with the chili lime butter and watch it melt into the kernels.
This seasoning enhances the natural sweetness of the corn while adding a spicy kick. The lime juice provides a refreshing tang that complements the smoky flavor imparted by grilling.
Chili lime butter is not only delicious but also versatile. It can be adjusted to taste by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder or lime juice. For those who prefer extra heat, cayenne pepper can be added to the mix.
2) Cotija Cheese Crumble
Cotija cheese adds a savory, salty kick to grilled corn on the cob. This Mexican cheese crumbles easily and clings well to the kernels.
To prepare, brush hot grilled corn with melted butter or mayonnaise. This helps the cheese adhere better. Crumble Cotija cheese by hand over the corn, rotating to coat evenly.
For extra flavor, sprinkle chili powder, lime zest, or chopped cilantro over the cheese. The heat from the corn will slightly melt the Cotija, creating a creamy texture.
Cotija cheese can be found in the specialty cheese section of most grocery stores. If unavailable, feta cheese makes a suitable substitute, offering a similar crumbly texture and salty taste.
This topping works well with other Mexican-inspired dishes like tacos or fajitas. The combination of sweet corn and tangy cheese creates a delicious contrast of flavors and textures.
3) Smoky Chipotle Mayo
Smoky chipotle mayo adds a zesty kick to grilled corn on the cob. This flavorful condiment combines creamy mayonnaise with the smoky heat of chipotle peppers.
To make chipotle mayo, blend mayonnaise with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Add lime juice for brightness and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Adjust the number of peppers to control the spice level.
Spread the chipotle mayo generously over hot grilled corn. The heat from the corn will melt the mayo slightly, creating a delicious glaze. For extra flavor, sprinkle some crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro on top.
This spicy, creamy topping pairs perfectly with the sweet, charred corn. It transforms a simple side dish into a mouthwatering Texas-style treat. Chipotle mayo can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for easy use during grilling season.
4) Garlic Parmesan Sprinkle
This classic combination brings a savory punch to grilled corn on the cob. Minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese create a flavorful blend that complements the sweetness of the corn.
To prepare, melt butter and mix it with finely minced garlic. Brush this garlic butter mixture over the hot grilled corn, ensuring even coverage.
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese generously over the buttered corn. The heat from the corn will slightly melt the cheese, allowing it to adhere to the kernels.
For added depth, consider incorporating a pinch of Italian seasoning or dried herbs like parsley or basil. This enhances the aromatic profile of the dish.
The result is a mouthwatering corn on the cob with a rich, cheesy coating and a pleasant garlic kick. This method transforms a simple side dish into a standout accompaniment for any Texas-style barbecue.
Understanding Texas Style Grilled Corn
Texas style grilled corn brings a unique flair to this classic summer staple. The Lone Star State’s approach emphasizes bold flavors and techniques that elevate the humble corn on the cob to new heights.
What Defines Texas Style Corn
Texas style corn is characterized by its robust seasoning and preparation methods. It often features a spicy-sweet blend of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika mixed with butter or mayonnaise. This mixture is generously slathered on the corn before grilling.
Lime juice adds a tangy kick, while cotija cheese provides a salty finish. Some variations include:
- Brushing with hot sauce for extra heat
- Sprinkling with crushed tortilla chips for crunch
- Adding chopped cilantro for freshness
The result is a flavorful, messy, and utterly delicious corn experience that embodies Texas’ bold culinary spirit.
Grilling Techniques Specific to Texas Style
Texas style corn grilling techniques focus on achieving maximum flavor and char. Cooks often leave the husks on during grilling, soaking them first to prevent burning. This method steams the corn while imparting a smoky taste.
Another popular technique involves:
- Removing the husks completely
- Grilling the corn directly on high heat
- Rotating frequently for even charring
Some grill masters use mesquite or hickory wood chips to infuse extra smokiness. Cooking times typically range from 10-15 minutes, depending on the desired level of char. The corn is often finished with a final baste of seasoned butter or mayo before serving.
Benefits of Spicing Up Grilled Corn
Spicing up grilled corn adds depth and excitement to this classic summer dish. It transforms a simple side into a flavorful centerpiece that can complement various cuisines.
Enhancing Flavors with Spices
Spices elevate the natural sweetness of corn while introducing new taste dimensions. Smoky paprika brings a rich, earthy quality that pairs well with the char from grilling. Chili powder adds a gentle heat, enhancing the corn’s inherent flavors without overpowering them.
Garlic powder introduces a savory note, creating a more complex flavor profile. Cumin offers a warm, slightly nutty taste that complements the corn’s sweetness. Mixing herbs like cilantro or parsley with spices adds freshness and aroma.
Experimenting with spice blends allows for endless flavor combinations. Mexican-inspired elote seasoning, featuring chili powder and lime, creates a zesty, tangy corn dish. Cajun spice blends bring a bold, spicy kick to each bite.
Cultural Influences on Spices Used
Different cultures have unique approaches to seasoning grilled corn. Mexican elote typically includes chili powder, lime, and cotija cheese, reflecting the country’s love for bold, tangy flavors.
Indian-inspired grilled corn often features garam masala or chaat masala, incorporating warm spices like cumin and coriander. These blends add depth and complexity to the corn’s natural sweetness.
Caribbean-style grilled corn might include jerk seasoning, bringing a fiery heat balanced with aromatic spices like allspice and thyme. This combination showcases the region’s vibrant culinary traditions.
Japanese-influenced corn often features a blend of togarashi, a spice mix containing chili peppers, sesame seeds, and nori. This creates a unique umami flavor profile with a subtle heat.