Vegan Elote Recipe: Easy, Delicious Mexican Street Corn

If you love the vibrant flavors of Mexican street food, then you’re going to adore this vegan elote recipe. Traditional elote, or Mexican street corn, is a delicious treat that combines grilled corn with creamy, tangy, and spicy toppings.

But what if you’re vegan or just looking to cut out dairy? No worries!

This plant-based version captures all the bold and zesty flavors without any animal products. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, quick snacks, or a fun appetizer to impress your friends.

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to recreate that classic elote experience, featuring grilled corn slathered in a creamy vegan sauce, sprinkled with smoky spices, and finished with fresh lime juice and cilantro.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just trying something new, this dish is easy, fast, and incredibly satisfying.

Ready to bring the fiesta to your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan elote recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic Mexican street food while sticking to your plant-based lifestyle. Here’s why it stands out:

• Rich and Creamy: The vegan mayo and cashew-based crema create a luscious, dairy-free sauce that clings perfectly to the corn.
• Bold Flavors: Smoky chipotle powder, tangy lime juice, and fresh cilantro give a complex and vibrant flavor profile.
• Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are easy to find and pantry staples, making this recipe accessible for everyone.
• Quick and Easy: From prep to finish, it only takes about 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or swap toppings to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
• ½ cup vegan mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup raw cashews, soaked for 2 hours and drained
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, finely chopped, for garnish
• Vegan Parmesan cheese or extra nutritional yeast, for sprinkling
• Lime wedges, for serving

Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Food processor or high-speed blender
• Small mixing bowl
• Brush for basting corn
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons and cups

Instructions

1. Prepare the cashew crema: In a food processor or blender, combine the soaked cashews, vegan mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of water to loosen it. Set aside.
2. Preheat your grill or grill pan: Heat it to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the corn: Place the husked corn directly on the grill. Turn every 2-3 minutes to ensure even charring on all sides. Grill for about 10-12 minutes until the kernels are tender and have nice grill marks.
4. Baste with cashew crema: Remove the grilled corn and immediately brush it generously with the cashew crema. Use a spoon or brush to coat all sides thoroughly for maximum flavor.
5. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro and vegan Parmesan cheese or extra nutritional yeast on top. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a zesty finish.
6. Serve: Arrange the elote on a serving platter with extra lime wedges on the side. Enjoy while warm!

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, swap the cashew crema for extra vegan mayo mixed with a splash of coconut cream or silken tofu blended with lime and garlic. This keeps the sauce creamy and delicious without nuts.

Spice it up by adding a dash of cayenne pepper or jalapeño powder to the crema for extra heat. Or simply add chopped fresh jalapeños as a topping.

Make it smoky by using smoked paprika and chipotle powder, but feel free to substitute with regular paprika for a milder flavor.

You can also experiment with toppings like crushed tortilla chips for crunch or chopped green onions for added freshness. For a cheesy twist, try sprinkling vegan queso fresco or using a vegan cheese sauce in place of the crema.

Nutrition Facts

This vegan elote is a nutrient-rich snack that offers a balanced combination of carbs, fats, and proteins with good fiber content. The use of cashews and vegan mayo adds healthy fats, while nutritional yeast contributes B vitamins and a cheesy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this vegan elote as a vibrant side dish alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired meals. It pairs wonderfully with:

• Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners
• Slow Cooker Recipes Vegan Easy Meals for Busy Weeknight
• Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes

It’s also fantastic as a party appetizer or a flavorful snack while watching your favorite show. For an outdoor barbecue, add some grilled veggies or vegan sausages to round out the meal.

Conclusion

This vegan elote recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the classic Mexican street corn flavor without any dairy or animal products. The combination of creamy cashew-based sauce, smoky spices, and fresh lime creates a mouthwatering bite that’s perfect for summer or any time you crave something bright and flavorful.

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply exploring new tastes, this recipe is easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s a great introduction to making plant-based versions of your favorite comfort foods.

Don’t forget to try pairing it with other delicious vegan dishes like those in our Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes collection or our creamy Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe. Happy cooking and ¡buen provecho!

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