Description of this recipe
This Cajun Corn on the Cob recipe elevates the humble ear of corn into a flavor-packed side dish that will steal the show at any barbecue, potluck, or family dinner. By combining the sweetness of corn with the smoky heat of Cajun spices and the creamy tang of a zesty mayo sauce, this recipe delivers a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone craving more. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or simply looking for a creative way to enjoy corn on the cob, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Why you will love this recipe
This Cajun Corn on the Cob is incredibly versatile and easy to customize to your liking. You can adjust the amount of Cajun spice to control the heat level, swap out the cheeses for your preferred variety, and even add a touch of chipotle or chili powder for an extra layer of smoky flavor. The combination of sweet, spicy, creamy, and tangy flavors creates a complex and satisfying taste experience that’s perfect for summer gatherings or cozy weeknight meals. Plus, this recipe is a great way to use up leftover spices and condiments, making it a budget-friendly and sustainable option.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise (vegan mayo is a great alternative)
- ⅓ cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1 ½ teaspoons Cajun spice
- 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
- ½ cup feta or cotija, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chipotle or chili powder (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the oil and spice mixture. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, half of the Cajun spice, half of the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Don’t worry if you have extra oil-spice mixture left over; you can brush it on the corn later, right before adding the mayo sauce.
Step 2: Wrap the corn in foil. Place each corn cob on a piece of foil. Generously brush each corn cob with the oil-spice mixture. Wrap the corn tightly in the foil.
Step 3: Bake the corn. Transfer the wrapped corn to the oven and bake for 30 minutes at 425°F (220°C). For softer corn, remove it from the oven after 30 minutes, brush it with more oil-spice mixture, and bake for another 20-25 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare the mayo sauce while the corn is baking. In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream or Mexican crema, the remaining Cajun spice and smoked paprika, lime juice (or squeeze it directly onto the corn later as needed), salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Assemble and serve. Remove the corn from the oven and let it cool slightly. Brush with any leftover oil-spice mixture (optional) and then generously coat with the mayo mixture. Top with crumbled feta or cotija cheese and chopped cilantro. If you want a slightly charred flavor without using a grill, a grill pan is a great option. Transfer the baked corn directly to a lightly greased grill pan and grill all sides until you achieve the desired char. Be careful not to overcook it. Serve warm and enjoy!
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
This Cajun Corn on the Cob is the perfect side dish for grilled meats, burgers, chicken, or fish. It also pairs well with salads, coleslaw, and other classic barbecue sides. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a grilled protein and a refreshing salad.
Tips:
- Adjust the amount of Cajun spice to your preferred heat level.
- For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of chipotle or chili powder to the mayo sauce.
- If you don’t have feta or cotija cheese, you can use Parmesan, Monterey Jack, or any other cheese that crumbles easily.
- For best results, use fresh, high-quality corn on the cob.
- If you’re short on time, you can skip the foil and bake the corn directly on the oven rack. Just be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Leftover Cajun Corn on the Cob can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30-55 minutes
Total Time:
45-70 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Calories:
Approximately 250-350 per ear
Protein:
Approximately 5-7 grams per ear
Sodium:
Approximately 300-500 mg per ear
Conclusion
Cajun Corn on the Cob is a delightful and flavorful twist on a classic summer side dish. The combination of sweet corn, smoky spices, creamy sauce, and salty cheese creates a taste sensation that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a new way to enjoy corn on the cob, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to experience the magic of Cajun-inspired corn!
Questions and Answers about Cajun Corn on the Cob:
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the mayo sauce and the oil-spice mixture ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to bake and assemble the corn just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Q2: Can I grill the corn instead of baking it?
A: Absolutely! Grilling the corn will give it a delicious smoky flavor. Simply grill the corn over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred. Then, brush with the mayo sauce and toppings as directed.
Q3: What if I don’t have Cajun spice?
A: If you don’t have Cajun spice, you can make your own by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and black pepper. There are many recipes online for homemade Cajun spice blends. You can also use a Creole spice blend as a substitute.
Q4: Can I use frozen corn on the cob?
A: While fresh corn on the cob is ideal, you can use frozen corn in a pinch. Thaw the corn completely before baking or grilling, and be sure to pat it dry to remove excess moisture.
Q5: Is this recipe vegan?
A: This recipe can easily be made vegan by using vegan mayonnaise and omitting the feta or cotija cheese or substituting it with a vegan alternative. Be sure to check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are vegan-friendly.
