Think Elote Seasoning is only for corn on the cob? Think again!
“Elote” is the Spanish word for corn on the cob. But in Mexico, the term more often refers to street corn topped with spices and seasonings like chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. This delicious combo is what I call the elote seasoning.
The seasoning blend that makes elote so delicious isn’t just good on corn; it can elevate all kinds of foods! Toss it into black beans, sprinkle it on a Southwest-inspired salad, or add it to chicken tacos—the sky is the limit!
With just spices and seasonings going into the mix, you can also make your elote seasoning ahead of time and keep it on hand for any time you want to spice things up. It’s also great for mixing and gifting to friends. It keeps for several months in a glass jar in a cool, dry place. It’s an inexpensive yet thoughtful gift that your friends and family can use on all kinds of recipes.
Is Elote Seasoning Healthy?
This seasoning doesn’t contain sugar or preservatives, which makes it better than many of the store-bought versions out there. When applying the mix to corn on the cob, traditionally, the corn is rolled in crema or sour cream first. If you need a dairy-free alternative, you can use olive oil to get the seasoning to stick to the corn instead. This is also a good option if you want to use this seasoning to create a vegan-friendly recipe.
In moderation, this seasoning is a healthy option that can add a lot of flavor to other healthy foods and side dishes, although those limiting salt intake may want to use this mix sparingly or reduce the salt in the recipe.
What Other Foods Can I Use Elote Seasoning On?
Elote seasoning can be used in place of almost any dry rub. A little sprinkle on scrambled eggs will liven them up. You can even sprinkle it on dessert: popcorn. And if you’re adding it to popcorn, pair it with Parmesan and/or nutritional yeast. Olive oil or butter on the popcorn will help the seasoning to stick.
Try it on grilled vegetables, seafood, chicken, or beef. Rub the seasoning on prior to cooking, or sprinkle it on near the end of the cooking time. One of my favorite ways to enjoy it is by stirring it into cooked black beans with a spoonful of sour cream. It creates a tangy, tasty side that’s great on its own or added to tacos.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Once made, place the seasoning into a sealed container and store it in a cool, dark place. It will keep for about 6 months, depending on the heat and humidity in the storage area.
Serving Suggestions
You should absolutely try this seasoning on grilled corn on the cob. But be sure to try it off the cob, too—like on this Sautéed Corn With Bacon! It would also be a great seasoning to use on Poached Fish. I have a feeling that once you develop a taste for this seasoning, you’ll think of lots of dishes that will benefit from a little sprinkle!
Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried lemon zest optional
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and dried lemon zest if using. Stir until well mixed.
- Transfer the elote seasoning to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place.
- Use the elote seasoning to enhance the flavor of grilled corn, vegetables, or as a spice rub for meats.
Nutrition Info:
Recipes written and produced on Food Faith Fitness are for informational purposes only.
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