Esquites are one of the most beloved and flavorful street foods in Mexico, offering a perfect combination of savory, creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors in every bite. This iconic Mexican snack is often found in bustling street markets, food stalls, and even at festivals across the country. Whether you’re walking through the vibrant streets of Mexico City or enjoying a summer evening at a local fair, you’re likely to encounter the irresistible scent of freshly made esquites wafting through the air.

What Are Esquites?

Esquites are essentially Mexican street corn served in a cup, made with corn kernels that are sautéed or boiled and then mixed with various toppings and seasonings. The dish is often associated with its more famous cousin, elote (Mexican grilled corn on the cob), but what sets esquites apart is the way the corn is served: off the cob, cut into small kernels, and typically eaten with a spoon.

Esquites are incredibly versatile, and the ingredients can vary depending on the region or the vendor. At their core, esquites are about corn, creamy elements, seasonings, and spices that create a perfect balance of flavors. The dish is usually served in a small cup or bowl, making it a portable, mess-free snack that’s easy to enjoy on the go.

The Basics of Esquites

The preparation of esquites is simple, but the magic lies in the combination of ingredients and the way they enhance the natural sweetness of the corn. Here’s how esquites are typically made:

1. Corn: The star of the dish is the corn kernels, which are usually taken from fresh corn on the cob. The kernels are either boiled or sautéed in butter or oil until tender. Sautéing the corn gives it a slightly caramelized flavor and a slight crispness that adds texture to the dish.
2. Seasonings: Once the corn is cooked, it’s seasoned with salt, pepper, and often chili powder. This adds a savory kick and depth of flavor to the dish. Some vendors also use garlic powder or onion powder to give it an extra layer of flavor.
3. Creamy Elements: To make esquites rich and creamy, mayonnaise is typically added, creating a luscious, smooth texture that coats the corn. Some variations may use Mexican crema (a tangy, slightly soured cream), sour cream, or a combination of both, to achieve the right level of creaminess.
4. Cheese: A sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese—a salty, crumbly cheese often used in Mexican cuisine—is a must for many esquites recipes. It adds a savory element and a little crunch. Some vendors may also use queso fresco or parmesan as alternatives.
5. Lime: A squeeze of fresh lime juice is added to cut through the richness and bring a bright, zesty contrast to the creamy, savory corn.
6. Chili and Other Toppings: The dish is usually topped with a generous amount of chili powder or Tajín (a tangy chili-lime seasoning), giving the esquites an extra hit of spice. Some vendors also add hot sauce or salsa for an additional layer of heat and flavor. For those who like a bit of sweetness, a few pieces of grilled or roasted corn may be tossed in, adding a smoky flavor.

Where Do Esquites Come From?

Like many street foods, esquites have deep roots in Mexican culinary history. The dish is a variation of the traditional Mexican elote (corn on the cob), a snack that has been enjoyed for centuries. Corn is a staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine, and both elote and esquites are believed to have originated from indigenous peoples of Mesoamerica.

The word esquite comes from the Nahuatl word azquitl, which referred to toasted or roasted corn. Over time, this evolved into the dish we recognize today as esquites. It has remained a popular snack in Mexico for generations, particularly in urban areas and street markets, where it’s often served during festivals or as a quick and satisfying snack.

Regional Variations of Esquites

While esquites are enjoyed across Mexico, there are regional differences in how the dish is prepared and served. These variations typically involve different toppings, spices, or the way the corn is cooked. Here are a few examples:

• Esquites with Chicharrón: In some areas of Mexico, esquites are topped with crunchy chicharrón (fried pork skin) or chicharrón prensado (pressed pork cracklings). The chicharrón adds a deliciously salty and crispy contrast to the creamy corn.
• Esquites with Avocado: In more modern variations, you might find esquites served with chunks of avocado for added creaminess and a fresh, earthy flavor. This variation has become popular in some urban areas where avocado is a common ingredient in many dishes.
• Esquites with Meat: In some cases, esquites are served with grilled or shredded meat, like chicken, beef, or carnitas, making the dish a heartier meal rather than just a snack. The addition of meat can elevate esquites into a full lunch or dinner.
• Esquites with Salsa Verde or Salsa Roja: Vendors may offer different types of salsa, such as salsa verde (made from tomatillos) or salsa roja (made from tomatoes and dried chilies), which can be drizzled over the corn to add a tangy, spicy punch.

Esquites vs. Elote

It’s common for people to compare esquites to elote, as they are both made with corn and share many of the same ingredients. However, the key difference lies in the way they’re served. While elote is served on the cob, esquites are served in a cup with the kernels removed from the cob. This makes esquites a more convenient, portable option, especially for those who are on the move and don’t want to fuss with eating off a cob.

In essence, esquites and elote are two sides of the same coin: both showcase the incredible versatility of corn in Mexican cuisine, but esquites offer a slightly different eating experience due to the way they’re prepared and served.

Why People Love Esquites

There’s a lot to love about esquites, making them a favorite snack for people of all ages:

1. Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy, savory, tangy, and spicy flavors is a perfect harmony. The contrast between the rich mayonnaise or crema and the tangy lime, the salty cotija cheese, and the kick of chili powder creates a mouthwatering snack.
2. Customizable: Esquites are highly customizable, meaning you can adjust the heat, creaminess, and flavors to suit your personal preferences. Want it extra spicy? Add more hot sauce or chili powder. Want it milder? Skip the hot sauce and opt for a bit more lime and cheese.
3. Satisfying: Despite being a snack, esquites are filling and satisfying. The combination of corn, cheese, and crema makes it a comforting treat that’s both indulgent and hearty.
4. Street Food Charm: Esquites capture the magic of Mexican street food—quick, flavorful, and designed to be enjoyed on the go. The experience of enjoying a warm cup of esquites from a food cart while walking through a Mexican market or park is a sensory experience that adds to its appeal.
5. Versatility: Esquites can be enjoyed as a snack, a side dish, or even as a main course when paired with grilled meats. It’s a versatile dish that fits a variety of occasions and eating styles.

Conclusion

Esquites are one of those dishes that perfectly embody the spirit of Mexican street food—simple, yet packed with flavor, and offering a little something for everyone. Whether you enjoy them with a dash of chili, a sprinkle of cheese, or a squeeze of lime, esquites are a delicious treat that never fails to satisfy