Tahini Street Corn
Tahini Street Corn, anyone? When it comes to iconic summer eats, Mexican street corn, known as elotes, undeniably tops the list. Juicy, sweet corn on the cob, slathered with creamy sauces, tangy cheese, and aromatic spices – it’s a festival of flavors that defines summer gatherings and outdoor feasts. But what if we told you there’s a new player in town that’s ready to take this classic to a whole new level?
Enter Tahini Street Corn – a mouthwatering creation that marries the rich and nutty essence of tahini with the ever-popular elotes concept.
The Fusion of Flavors: Tahini Meets Elotes
Tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds, has been a staple ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. Its creamy consistency and distinct nuttiness make it a versatile addition to both sweet and savory dishes. As the Levantine cousin of elotes, Tahini Street Corn brings a unique twist to the table.
The marriage of sweet, juicy corn with the rich and nutty embrace of tahini creates a flavor profile that’s as harmonious as it is innovative. The tahini adds a depth of flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the corn, creating a symphony of taste that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Za’atar: The Fragrant Allure
No Middle Eastern dish is complete without the magic touch of za’atar – a flavorful blend of dried herbs, sumac, and sesame seeds. In Tahini Street Corn, za’atar takes center stage, adding a fragrant and earthy dimension to the dish. As you sink your teeth into each kernel, the za’atar’s complex aroma unfolds, enhancing the overall experience and adding depth to the flavor profile.
A Hint of Lemon and a Subtle Substitution
To balance the richness of the tahini and the depth of the za’atar, a hint of lemon zest brightens up the dish. Its citrusy notes not only provide a burst of freshness but also help to harmonize the various flavors, creating a well-rounded taste sensation.
Now, let’s talk cheese. Traditional elotes often feature cotija cheese, known for its crumbly texture and salty tang. However, in the spirit of innovation, we’re making a substitution. Say hello to salty sheep’s milk feta – a creamy and briny cheese that pairs beautifully with the tahini and za’atar. This unique twist not only adds a touch of familiarity but also introduces a new layer of flavor that perfectly complements the rest of the dish.
From Cob to Cup: A Versatile Presentation
While elotes are often enjoyed straight off the cob, we’re embracing versatility with Tahini Street Corn. You have the option to serve it in a cup or bowl, esquites-style, for those who prefer not to gnaw on the kernels. This adaptation not only makes it more convenient for guests but also allows everyone to savor the intricate flavors and textures of the dish in a way that suits their preference.
Bringing Tahini Street Corn to Your Table
If you’re ready to embark on a culinary adventure that marries the flavors of Mexico and the Levant, Tahini Street Corn is your ultimate summer dish. Perfect for backyard barbecues, picnics, and any gathering that calls for a show-stopping treat, this fusion creation is sure to spark conversations and earn a spot as your new favorite summer side dish.
Ready to give it a try? Scroll down below for the full Tahini Street Corn recipe, complete with step-by-step instructions and all the tips you need to create this innovative masterpiece. Let’s elevate your summer eats and introduce a touch of Levantine flair to your next outdoor feast!
Check out my other recipes here.
Tahini Mexican Street Corn
Author: Micah Siva
Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 4 cobs of corn, husks removed
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup tahini
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or crema
- ¼ teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoons za’atar
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon Aleppo chili flakes
Method:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the corn with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked.
- While the corn is cooking, make the sauce: In a medium bowl or jar with tight fitting lid, comgine the tahini, water, sour cream, lemon zest, lemon juice,za’atar and sea salt, shaking or whisking to combine. The sauce will thicken, so add 1 to 2 tablespoons additional water, as needed.
- When ready to serve, drizzle the corn with the tahini sauce, and top with feta cheese, parsley, and aleppo chili flakes. Enjoy!