What To Know
- While feta may not be the traditional cheese for Mexican street corn, it can be used as a substitute if you prefer its flavor and texture.
- With the right balance of flavors and ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying Mexican street corn dish using feta cheese.
- Yes, but sheep’s milk feta or a mixture of sheep’s and goat’s milk feta is recommended for its authentic flavor.
Mexican street corn, also known as elote, is a beloved street food that originated in Mexico. Its distinctive sweet and savory flavors, along with its vibrant colors, have made it a popular dish worldwide. However, many home cooks wonder if they can substitute feta for the traditional Mexican cheese, queso fresco, when making Mexican street corn. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive answer to the question: “Can you use feta for Mexican street corn?”
Understanding Feta and Queso Fresco
Before delving into the suitability of feta for Mexican street corn, it’s essential to understand the differences between feta and queso fresco.
Feta:
- A brined curd cheese made from sheep’s milk or a mixture of sheep’s and goat’s milk
- Has a crumbly texture and a slightly salty, tangy flavor
- Commonly used in Greek salads, pastries, and dips
Queso Fresco:
- A fresh cheese made from cow’s milk
- Has a soft, moist texture and a mild, slightly sour flavor
- Traditionally used in Mexican dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas
Can You Use Feta for Mexican Street Corn?
Yes, you can use feta for Mexican street corn. However, there are a few key differences to consider when using feta instead of queso fresco:
Taste and Texture
Feta has a more pronounced salty and tangy flavor than queso fresco. Its crumbly texture may also not adhere to the corn as well as queso fresco’s softer texture.
Appearance
Feta’s white color can make the Mexican street corn appear less vibrant than when using queso fresco.
How to Use Feta for Mexican Street Corn
If you choose to use feta for Mexican street corn, here are some tips:
- Use a small amount: Feta’s strong flavor can easily overpower the other ingredients.
- Crumble the feta: This will help it distribute evenly over the corn.
- Add other flavors: To balance the salty and tangy flavor of feta, consider adding additional ingredients such as lime juice, cilantro, or chili powder.
Other Cheese Options for Mexican Street Corn
If you’re not keen on using feta, here are a few other cheese options that work well for Mexican street corn:
- Queso fresco: The traditional cheese for Mexican street corn
- Cotija cheese: A hard, crumbly cheese with a salty, nutty flavor
- Parmesan cheese: A hard, aged cheese with a nutty, umami flavor
- Mozzarella cheese: A soft, white cheese with a mild flavor
Making Mexican Street Corn with Feta
Ingredients:
- 6 ears of corn, husked and cleaned
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Grill or boil the corn until tender.
2. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, feta cheese, lime juice, chili powder, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the mixture evenly over the corn.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
The Bottom Line
While feta may not be the traditional cheese for Mexican street corn, it can be used as a substitute if you prefer its flavor and texture. Keep in mind the differences between feta and queso fresco, and adjust the recipe accordingly. With the right balance of flavors and ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying Mexican street corn dish using feta cheese.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I use any type of feta for Mexican street corn?
A: Yes, but sheep’s milk feta or a mixture of sheep’s and goat’s milk feta is recommended for its authentic flavor.
Q: How much feta should I use for Mexican street corn?
A: Use about 1/4 cup crumbled feta for every 6 ears of corn.
Q: What other toppings can I add to Mexican street corn with feta?
A: Consider adding chopped tomatoes, onions, or jalapenos for additional flavor and texture.
