DELECTABLE MEXICAN STREET CORN CUPS FOR PICKY EATERS
Do you have a picky eater who struggles to try new foods?
If so, get ready to unleash your inner foodie with these mouthwatering Mexican street corn cups!
Bursting with flavor and guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest of palates, these delectable cups are the perfect introduction to the vibrant world of Mexican cuisine.
Packed with the mild authentic flavors of Mexico, each bite is a journey into a world of spice, sweetness, and pure deliciousness for your little ones.
From the slightly smoky and tangy lime and sour cream mayo dressing to the bold and cheesy parmesan, these cups are a symphony of flavors all packed up in a neat and crispy tortilla cup. Perfect for little hands!
So, take a chance with your picky eaters, and join us on a culinary exploration that will awaken your inner foodie.
Get ready to experience the irresistible allure of Mexican street corn cups – it’s time to indulge in a taste sensation like no other.
My Personal Connection
As a single parent to a 4 year old with an ever evolving picky palate, I embark on a daily struggle of trying to get this picky eater excited about mealtime.
That’s why I created these Kid-Friendly Mexican Street Corn Cups — to bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican street food to the dinner table in a way that even the fussiest of eaters couldn’t resist.
Inspired by the lively markets of Mexico, each bite is bursting with the sweetness of corn, the creaminess of mayo and sour cream, and just the right amount of zing from spices.
It’s a dish that’s not only fun to eat but also sneakily nutritious, making it a win-win for both parents and kids alike.
So whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend fiesta, these mini cups are sure to bring smiles and empty plates every time!
Why Mexican Street Corn Cups are perfect for picky eaters
When it comes to trying new foods, picky eaters often face a challenge.
The fear of unknown flavors and textures can make it difficult to step out of their comfort zone.
However, Mexican street corn cups are the perfect solution for picky eaters looking to expand their culinary horizons.
These cups combine familiar ingredients like corn and cheese with slightly bold flavors and spices, creating a delightful fusion that is both comforting and exciting.
Mexican street corn, also known as elote, is a popular street food in Mexico.
It is made by grilling or roasting corn on the cob and then slathering it with a mixture of mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and cotija cheese.
This traditional dish has been transformed into portable cups, making it easier for picky eaters to enjoy without the messiness of eating corn on the cob.
The cups are filled with a creamy, cheesy and tangy dressing, and garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
The result is a flavor explosion that will leave picky eaters craving for more.
Mexican Street Corn Cup Tips to suit different tastes
While the traditional Mexican street corn cups are already incredibly flavorful, there are several ways to customize them to suit different tastes.
Here are some tips for adding your own twist to these delicious cups:
- Spice it up: If your family loves heat, add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or diced jalapenos to the dressing mixture. This will give your corn cups an extra kick of spice.
- Sweet and savory: For a unique twist, try adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of brown sugar to balance out the tanginess of the lime and mayo dressing.
- Veggie lovers: If you’re little ones appreciate more vegetables, feel free to add some diced bell peppers, red onions, or cherry tomatoes to the corn mixture for added color and texture.
- Protein boost: For a more substantial meal, consider adding some grilled chicken, shrimp, or even black beans to the corn cups. This will make them more filling and satisfying.
The beauty of Mexican street corn cups is that they can be easily customized to suit individual preferences, making them a perfect choice for picky eaters looking to explore new flavors.
Mexican Street Corn Cups Pairing Suggestions
Mexican street corn cups are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on their own as a snack or served as a side dish alongside a main meal.
Here are some pairing suggestions to enhance your culinary experience:
- Grilled meats: The smoky and tangy flavors of the corn cups pair beautifully with grilled meats such as steak, chicken, or pork. Serve them alongside your favorite grilled protein for a delicious and satisfying meal.
- Tacos or quesadillas: If you’re in the mood for a Mexican feast, serve the corn cups alongside tacos or quesadillas. The combination of flavors and textures will take your taste buds on a journey to the streets of Mexico.
- Fresh salads: For a lighter option, pair the corn cups with a refreshing salad. The creamy and tangy dressing of the cups complements the crispness of the greens, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Are Mexican Street Corn Cups Healthy?
While Mexican street corn cups may be indulgent and full of flavor, they also offer several health benefits.
Here are some reasons why you can feel good about enjoying these delicious cups:
- Corn is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy digestive system. Corn is rich in antioxidants, including lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health. Lime juice is packed with vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system and promotes collagen production.
- The sour cream and mayonnaise used in the dressing provides a source of healthy fats, which are essential for brain function and overall well-being.
- The parmesan cheese adds a dose of calcium and protein to the corn cups, contributing to healthy bones and muscles.
While it’s important to enjoy Mexican street corn cups in moderation, knowing that they offer some health benefits can help parents and families understand the benefits of serving this at the table.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn
Yes, frozen corn can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh corn. Simply thaw the corn before using it in the recipe.
What can I use as a substitute for parmesan cheese (a more familiar flavor)?
Traditionally, Mexican street corn is served with cotija cheese. If you can’t find cotija cheese, you can use queso fresco as a substitute. It has a similar crumbly texture and tangy flavor that pairs well with the corn cups.
Can I make these corn cups ahead of time?
While it’s best to enjoy the corn cups immediately after assembly, you can prepare the corn mixture and the dressing in advance. Keep them separate and assemble the cups just before serving to ensure maximum freshness.
Can I make these corn cups dairy-free?
Yes, you can make these corn cups dairy-free by using a vegan sour cream, yogurt, and mayonnaise substitute and opting for a dairy-free cheese alternative such as nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.
Final Thoughts
Mexican street corn cups are a gateway to a world of flavors for picky eaters.
With their familiar ingredients and bold flavors, these cups provide a gentle introduction to the vibrant and delicious world of Mexican cuisine.
From the creamy and tangy dressing to the crunchy cups, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors that will leave picky eaters craving for more.
So, whether you’re a self-proclaimed foodie or cautious about trying new foods, unleash your inner foodie and embark on a culinary adventure with these delectable Mexican street corn cups.
It’s time to indulge in a taste sensation like no other and discover the irresistible allure of Mexican street food.
Mexican Street Corn Cups
Equipment
- Mini ice cream scoop or small spoon
- Mini muffin pan
- 2-3” round cookie cutter
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and cooled corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 finely grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning or chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 12 fresh cilantro leaves for garnish optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4-5 flour tortillas
Instructions
For the Cups:
- Preheat the oven to 375° and using a 2” round cookie cutter, cut out 12 circles from the tortillas.
- Press the tortilla rounds into the muffin tins, weighing them down as needed to stay in the muffin tins.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Set aside to cool.
For the Corn Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayo, sour cream, parmesan and seasoning. Mix well to create a smooth sauce.
- Add in the corn and mix until well coated in the dressing.
For Assembly:
- Using the mini ice cream scoop or spoon, fill each of the mini tortilla cups with the corn mixture. If using the scoop, do not overfill to avoid spillover in the cups.
- Garnish with cilantro leaves as desired and serve!
Looking for additional kid-friendly picky eater recipes? Explore more recipes on my weekly feature blog page or the full kid-friendly recipe collection here!
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