Quirky Foodster
  1. Back

Street Food

Elote Loco (Loaded Corn on the Cob)

The Quirky Foodster Team

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (0)
1
Servings

Ingredients

  • 4 ears fresh corn, husked
  • 4 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 4 tbsp grated hard cheese (such as queso seco or parmesan)
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp mustard
  • Chilli powder or hot sauce, to taste
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Method

  1. Boil the corn in salted water for 8-10 minutes, or grill over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and lightly charred.
  2. Insert a skewer or corn holder into each end of the cob for easy handling.
  3. Generously brush or smear each ear of corn with mayonnaise.
  4. Sprinkle with grated cheese, then drizzle with ketchup and mustard.
  5. Finish with a dusting of chilli powder or a few dashes of hot sauce, and serve with a lime wedge for squeezing over the top.

Introduction: Elote Loco, meaning 'crazy corn', is a playful Costa Rican street snack of grilled or boiled corn on the cob
piled high with mayonnaise, cheese, ketchup and other toppings, a colourful, messy favourite at fairs and
beachside stands.

Cultural Background: Elote Loco, meaning 'crazy corn', is a playful Costa Rican street snack of grilled or boiled corn on the cob
piled high with mayonnaise, cheese, ketchup and other toppings, a colourful, messy favourite at fairs and
beachside stands.

Tips: Grilling rather than boiling adds a smoky char that pairs well with the rich toppings. Apply the mayonnaise while the corn is still warm so the cheese sticks well.

Variations: Swap chilli powder for a Costa Rican hot sauce like Salsa Lizano picante. Cut the kernels off the cob and serve in a cup (esquites-style) for easier eating.

Storage: Best eaten immediately; not suited to storage once dressed.

Reheating: Not applicable; assemble and serve fresh.

Nutrition: Approx. 260 kcal, 6g protein, 16g fat, 24g carbohydrate per serving.

FAQs

Q: Why is it called 'crazy corn'?
A: The playful name reflects the wild mix of toppings piled onto a single ear of corn, a colourful contrast to simply plain, unadorned corn.

Q: Can Elote Loco be made less messy?
A: Cutting the kernels off the cob into a cup before adding the toppings makes for a similarly flavoured but easier-to-eat version.

© Arscale 2026