Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts

Ah, Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts. The name alone is a party in your mouth waiting to happen! Imagine the smoky char of grilled corn, the tangy zip of lime, and the surprising sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts all colliding in a flavor explosion.

This isn’t your grandma’s boring Brussels sprouts recipe. This is Brussels sprouts gone wild, ready to spice up your weeknight dinner or become the star of your next potluck. Get ready for a culinary adventure that will have everyone begging for the recipe!

Here are some reasons why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:

• It transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a crave-worthy dish bursting with Mexican-inspired flavors.
• The combination of roasting and then adding the “street corn” flair creates an irresistible textural experience.
• It’s a vibrant and colorful side dish that will brighten up any plate, making it visually appealing.
• This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be served as a side, appetizer, or even a light vegetarian meal.

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Brussels Sprouts Opt for fresh, firm Brussels sprouts of similar size to ensure even cooking. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter.

Olive Oil This helps the Brussels sprouts roast beautifully and adds a touch of richness. Extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor.

Chili Powder Adds a warm, smoky heat that’s essential to the Mexican street corn flavor profile. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.

Cumin Brings an earthy and slightly bitter note that complements the chili powder. Ground cumin is the way to go for this recipe.

Garlic Powder Provides a pungent, savory element that enhances the overall flavor. Make sure it’s fresh for the best taste.

Salt and Black Pepper Enhances all the other flavors and seasons the Brussels sprouts perfectly. Use freshly ground black pepper for a bolder taste.

Mayonnaise Creates a creamy base for the “street corn” topping. Use your favorite brand, or even homemade.

Lime Juice Adds a tangy, citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise. Freshly squeezed is always best.

Cotija Cheese This salty, crumbly cheese is the traditional topping for Mexican street corn. You can substitute feta cheese if cotija is unavailable.

Fresh Cilantro Adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens up the dish. Chop it finely for the best flavor distribution.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prep Those Sprouts!

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly. Trim off the ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. If the sprouts are large, cut them in half; smaller ones can be left whole.

Step 2: Roast to Perfection

In a large bowl, toss the prepared Brussels sprouts with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the sprouts are evenly coated with the spices. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.

Step 3: Make the Magic Sauce

While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the “street corn” sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and lime juice until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the lime juice to your preference.

Step 4: Assemble and Conquer

Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving bowl. Drizzle generously with the mayonnaise-lime sauce.

Step 5: The Finishing Touch

Crumble the cotija cheese over the Brussels sprouts and sprinkle with the chopped fresh cilantro.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately and watch your friends and family devour this unexpected and delicious creation. These Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts are best enjoyed hot, but they are also delicious at room temperature.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To nail this **Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts** recipe, start by roasting the sprouts for optimal crispiness. While they’re roasting, whip up the creamy sauce. Toss everything together at the end so each sprout is evenly coated in that delicious, savory goodness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to get creative with your **Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts**! If you’re not a fan of Brussels sprouts (gasp!), try broccoli florets. For a little extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. A squeeze of lime adds brightness.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover **Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts** in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, spread them out on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Microwaving is an option, but they might lose some crispness.

Here are some pro tips for the best **Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts**:

• To ensure even cooking, choose Brussels sprouts that are roughly the same size, preventing some from being overcooked while others are underdone.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when roasting the sprouts; this steams them instead of roasting them, hindering that beautiful caramelization.
• For an extra smoky flavor, consider grilling the corn before cutting the kernels off the cob, adding depth to the overall profile.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

I once brought these **Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts** to a potluck, and even the self-proclaimed sprout haters were raving. It’s now a requested dish at every gathering. Who knew sprouts could be so popular?

Why This Recipe Works (and Will Make You Famous!)

Let’s be honest, Brussels sprouts have a bit of a reputation. They’re often relegated to the side dish graveyard, blandly steamed or boiled into oblivion. But I’m here to tell you, with this recipe for **Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts**, you can resurrect the humble sprout and transform it into a culinary superstar! We’re talking a flavor explosion that will make even the most ardent sprout-despiser question their life choices.

The secret? We’re taking inspiration from the iconic Mexican street corn, also known as Elote. Think charred corn on the cob, slathered in creamy, tangy goodness, and sprinkled with chili powder and cotija cheese. We’re channeling all that deliciousness and applying it to Brussels sprouts. It’s a match made in flavor heaven. And before you start thinking “Brussels sprouts and Mexican flavors? That sounds weird,” trust me. This is a flavor adventure you won’t regret.

The Humble Brussels Sprout: From Zero to Hero

First, let’s talk about the sprouts themselves. The key to unlocking their delicious potential is roasting. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a delightful crispy texture. We’re not talking about those mushy, bitter sprouts of your childhood. No, these are crispy, caramelized gems that are begging to be devoured.

Roasting is the magical transformation. It tames the sprouts’ inherent bitterness and unlocks a nutty, sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of Mexican street corn. Don’t skimp on the roasting time! You want them to be nicely browned and slightly softened, but still have a bit of bite.

The Magic of Roasting: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). High heat is crucial for achieving that perfect caramelization.

2. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and halve or quarter them, depending on their size. Smaller pieces will cook faster and get crispier.

3. Toss the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Don’t be shy with the oil! It helps them get nice and crispy.

4. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Overcrowding the pan will steam them instead of roasting them.

5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and nicely browned. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.

Elote Inspiration: Building the Flavor Fiesta

Now, let’s move on to the star of the show: the Mexican street corn-inspired sauce. This is where the magic really happens. We’re talking creamy, tangy, spicy, and utterly addictive. This sauce will elevate those roasted sprouts to a whole new level of deliciousness. This isn’t just a sauce; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen.

This sauce takes its cues from the traditional Elote, but we make it our own. We’re creating a symphony of flavors that complement the Brussels sprouts perfectly. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the overall deliciousness.

Crafting the Creamy Dream: Sauce Ingredients & Instructions

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this amazing sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (use a good quality mayo for the best flavor)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a tangier twist)
• 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta cheese if you can’t find Cotija)
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat

Simply whisk all the ingredients together in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you like it spicier, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper. If you prefer it tangier, add more lime juice. This sauce is all about customizing it to your taste preferences.

Putting It All Together: The Grand Finale

Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted and the sauce is ready, it’s time to bring it all together. Toss the roasted sprouts with the sauce, making sure they are evenly coated. Sprinkle with extra Cotija cheese and a sprinkle of chili powder for garnish. And there you have it: **Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts** that are guaranteed to impress!

This is the moment where the magic happens. The warm, crispy sprouts mingle with the cool, creamy sauce, creating a textural and flavorful delight. Every bite is a celebration of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

Serving Suggestions: From Side Dish to Center Stage

These **Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts** are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a side dish, a snack, or even a light meal. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Serve them as a side dish with grilled chicken, beef, lamb or fish.
• Add them to a salad for a burst of flavor and texture.
• Serve them as an appetizer at your next party.
• Top them with a fried egg for a delicious and satisfying brunch.

Ingredient Spotlight: Alternatives and Substitutions

Not a fan of Cotija cheese? No problem! Feta cheese or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese will work just fine. Want to make this recipe vegan? Use vegan mayonnaise and sour cream, and skip the cheese. Get creative and make it your own! Remember that substitutions can alter the intended taste of the recipe.

This recipe is all about flexibility. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. The goal is to create a dish that you love.

Spice It Up (or Tone It Down): Adjusting the Heat Level

If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a small amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper, and add more to taste. If you like it really spicy, feel free to add a diced jalapeño pepper to the sauce. The beauty of this recipe is that you can customize the heat level to your liking. Remember you can always add more spice, but you can’t take it away!

Troubleshooting Tips: Avoiding Common Pitfalls

• If your Brussels sprouts are too bitter, try soaking them in cold water for 30 minutes before roasting.
• If your sauce is too thick, add a little water or lime juice to thin it out.
• If your Brussels sprouts are not getting crispy enough, make sure you’re not overcrowding the pan.

Health Benefits: Sprouts Are Your Friend!

Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They’re a great source of fiber, which is important for digestive health. They’re also low in calories and high in nutrients, making them a healthy and delicious addition to your diet. So you can enjoy these **Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts** guilt-free!

These little green powerhouses are good for you and delicious. It’s a win-win!

Other Delicious Brussels Sprouts Recipes to Explore

If you love Brussels sprouts as much as I do, here are a few other recipes you might enjoy:

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
• Shredded Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apples and Walnuts
• Brussels Sprouts Gratin with Gruyere Cheese

Now Go Forth and Conquer the Brussels Sprout!

So there you have it: my recipe for **Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts**. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do! Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below. Happy cooking! Don’t forget to take pictures to show off your culinary skills.

Recipe Card

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Conclusion for Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts:

These Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts offer a delightful twist on a classic dish, blending the sweetness of roasted sprouts with the zesty flavors of elote. Quick to prepare and customizable to your spice preference, they’re perfect as a side dish or a fun snack. By substituting traditional ingredients with flavorful alternatives, this recipe ensures everyone can enjoy a taste of Mexico. Remember to experiment with different cheeses and spices to truly make it your own. So go ahead, give it a try!

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FAQs:

Can I make Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?

You absolutely can! Roasting the Brussels sprouts in advance gives you a head start, freeing up precious time later. Just toss them with the seasoning and roast as directed, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sprouts and then proceed with the cotija cheese, mayo mixture, chili powder, and lime juice. The sprouts will be just as delicious, and you’ll have more time to enjoy the party (or just relax after a long day). This make-ahead option is a lifesaver!

What if I don’t have cotija cheese for my Elote Brussels Sprouts?

No cotija? No problem! If you can’t find cotija cheese, don’t despair. A good substitute would be crumbled feta or even queso fresco. Both have a similar salty, slightly tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Feta has a bit more of a salty bite, while queso fresco is milder and creamier. Experiment to see which you like best! Just remember that these substitutes may not melt quite the same way as cotija. But the overall flavor profile will still be delightfully similar for these tasty Brussels sprouts.

How spicy are these Mexican Street Corn Inspired Brussels Sprouts?

These Brussels sprouts aren’t overly spicy. The chili powder adds a pleasant warmth, but it’s more about flavor than intense heat. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mayo mixture. You can also use a spicier chili powder blend. Taste as you go, adding more until you reach your desired spice level. Remember, you can always add more spice, but you can’t take it away!

Are roasted Elote Brussels Sprouts healthy?

Yes, they definitely can be! Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and makes them even more palatable. Using light mayo or even Greek yogurt can reduce the fat content. Plus, the lime juice adds a dose of vitamin C. While this recipe is undoubtedly a delicious treat, it’s also a way to sneak in some healthy greens. It’s a win-win situation!