Elote Ramen Noodles Recipe

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Cook Time: 20 minutes

Original Recipe Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

• 2 ears fresh corn, husked
• 1 small jalapeno pepper
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce, such as Valentina
• 3 cups water
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 3 (3-ounce) packages instant ramen noodles, seasoning packets discarded
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese, or as needed (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, or as needed (optional)

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients and preheat your grill (indoor or outdoor) to medium-high heat.

2. Place the corn and jalapeno directly on the grill grate. Grill for 5 minutes on one side, then turn and grill for another 5 minutes until slightly charred.

3. Transfer the grilled corn and jalapeno to a cutting board. Cut the corn off the cob and chop the jalapeno, discarding the seeds if desired. Set aside.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and hot sauce. Set the mayo mixture aside.

5. In a large skillet, heat the water, half-and-half, and chili powder over medium heat. Once it begins to simmer, add the ramen noodles.

6. Simmer the noodles for about 2 minutes, then flip them over and cook for another 2 minutes until they begin to break apart.

7. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and continue cooking for about 2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.

8. Add the grilled corn and jalapeno to the skillet and stir to combine.

9. Transfer the ramen to serving dishes and top with the mayonnaise mixture. Garnish with lime wedges, cotija cheese, and cilantro, as desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 527
• Total Fat: 29g (37% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 11g (53% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 27mg (9% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1692mg (74% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 54g (20% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 5g (17% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 16g (32% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 17mg (18% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 251mg (19% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (13% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 255mg (5% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Elote Ramen Noodles

Elote Ramen Noodles represent a creative fusion of traditional Mexican street food and classic Japanese comfort cuisine. The inspiration comes from elote, a popular Mexican snack of grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime, combined with the soft, slurpy texture of ramen noodles. This dish emerged from modern culinary experimentation, blending flavors and textures that might seem unconventional at first but create a satisfying harmony in each bite. Chefs in urban fusion restaurants began experimenting with this combination in the early 2010s, giving rise to a unique street-to-table experience.

Regional Variations

While the core concept remains consistent, Elote Ramen varies slightly by region. In the United States, it often features shredded mozzarella and cotija cheese along with a spicy mayonnaise drizzle. In Mexico, some versions stick closer to the street food roots, using crema instead of mayonnaise and adding local peppers for heat. Japanese fusion restaurants might serve it with a miso or dashi-based broth to accentuate the ramen noodles umami flavor. Each variation highlights local ingredients while maintaining the signature combination of corn, spice, and creamy toppings.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional ramen, which relies heavily on broth and protein-based toppings like pork or egg, Elote Ramen focuses on corn, cheese, and fresh spices as its central flavors. Compared to standard elote, which is eaten as a snack or side dish, this dish transforms the ingredients into a hearty, noodle-based entre. The unique melding of a creamy, slightly spicy sauce with chewy ramen noodles is what truly distinguishes it from either parent cuisine.

Typical Serving Occasions

Elote Ramen Noodles are most commonly served in casual dining or street food settings. Food trucks, fusion cafes, and modern Mexican-American restaurants often feature this dish on their menu as a lunch or dinner option. Its also gaining popularity in home kitchens as a comfort meal for gatherings or special occasions, where cooks enjoy customizing the heat, creaminess, and garnishes according to personal taste.

Interesting Facts

• The word elote means corn on the cob in Spanish, reflecting the dishs roots in Mexican street cuisine.
• Fusion chefs often experiment with toppings like pickled jalapenos, lime zest, or smoked paprika to elevate the flavor profile.
• Despite its street food origins, Elote Ramen has been featured in food festivals and culinary competitions, showcasing its versatility and appeal.
• Its vibrant presentation, with golden corn, green cilantro, and a sprinkle of white cotija cheese, makes it visually appealing as well as flavorful.
• The combination of creamy, spicy, and tangy elements mirrors classic flavor principles in both Mexican and Japanese cuisines, creating an unexpected yet harmonious taste experience.

FAQ about Elote Ramen Noodles Recipe