If you're a fan of Mexican street food, you've probably encountered the mouth-watering corn on the cob, slathered with mayo, spices and cheese. But did you know that 21 pieces (28 g) of Mexican street corn can pack as many as 160 calories? If you're watching your weight or counting calories, it's important to keep in mind the nutritional values of this popular dish.

Mexican street corn, or elote, is a grilled or boiled corn cob that's typically slathered with mayo, sour cream or crema, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. Each corn cob can have up to 200 calories, depending on the amount of topping and butter used. However, it's worth noting that Mexican street corn is also a good source of certain nutrients, which we'll discuss further in this article.

In this article, we'll dive deeper into the pros and cons of Mexican street corn, and share some tips on how to enjoy it in a healthier way. Whether you're a die-hard fan of elote or just curious about this popular street food, keep reading to learn more.

What is Mexican Street Corn?

Mexican street corn, or elote, is a popular street food that's typically sold by vendors, especially in Mexico and other Latin American countries. The corn cob is either grilled or boiled, then slathered with various toppings, including mayo, sour cream or crema, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. The result is a savory and spicy snack or meal that's perfect for enjoying on-the-go or at home. The history of Mexican street corn dates back to pre-Columbian times, when the indigenous peoples of Mexico were already consuming corn in various forms. Elote as we know it today originated in Mexico and has now spread to other parts of the world, particularly the United States. Mexican street corn is beloved by many because of its unique flavor profile and the simple joy of eating it. However, it's also important to be aware of its nutritional values and potential drawbacks, which we'll discuss in the following sections.

How many calories are in 21 pieces of Mexican Street Corn?

As mentioned earlier, 21 pieces (28 g) of Mexican street corn can contain as many as 160 calories. However, keep in mind that the calorie count can vary depending on the size of the corn cob and the amount of toppings used. For example, a large corn cob may have up to 400 calories, while a smaller one may only have 100-200 calories. If you're watching your calorie intake or trying to lose weight, it's important to be mindful of how many corn cobs you consume, as well as the portions of the toppings. Here are some tips for enjoying Mexican street corn in a healthier way: - Opt for grilled corn instead of boiled corn, as it contains fewer calories and more fiber. - Use a lighter dressing or sauce, such as Greek yogurt or hot sauce, instead of mayo or crema. - Cut down on the cheese and choose a low-fat variety. - Avoid adding extra butter or oil.

Important nutritional values to keep in mind

Despite its high calorie count, Mexican street corn can be a good source of certain nutrients, such as: - Fiber: corn is rich in fiber, which can aid digestion and promote satiety. - Protein: some of the toppings used in Mexican street corn, such as cheese and crema, contain protein. - Vitamins and minerals: corn is a good source of vitamin C, thiamin, and folate. However, it's worth noting that Mexican street corn is also high in fat, sodium, and sugar, especially if the toppings are heavy. Therefore, it's important to consume it in moderation and balance it with other healthy foods.

Other nutrients found in Mexican Street Corn

Mexican street corn can also contain other nutrients, depending on the toppings used. For example: - Calcium: cotija cheese is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health. - Vitamin A: some of the toppings, such as chili powder and hot sauce, contain vitamin A, which is essential for eye health. - Iron: corn is a good source of iron, which is important for oxygen transport and energy production. Keep in mind that the amount of nutrients in Mexican street corn can vary widely depending on the quality and quantity of the ingredients. It's always a good idea to check the nutritional information or ask the vendor about the ingredients and cooking methods.

Health benefits of Mexican Street Corn

Despite its high calorie count and potential drawbacks, Mexican street corn can offer some health benefits if consumed in moderation and with the right toppings. Some of the potential health benefits of elote include: - Increased fiber intake: as mentioned earlier, corn is rich in fiber, which can promote healthy digestion and lower the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. - Improved nutrient intake: the toppings used in Mexican street corn can provide additional nutrients, such as protein, calcium, and vitamin A. - Boosted mood and enjoyment: eating your favorite foods can improve your mood and overall enjoyment of life, which is important for mental wellbeing. Of course, these health benefits can be offset by the high calorie count and potential negative effects of the toppings. Therefore, it's important to strike a balance and enjoy Mexican street corn in a mindful and intentional way.

Concerns and precautions when consuming Mexican Street Corn

While Mexican street corn can offer some benefits, it's also important to be aware of its potential drawbacks and concerns, such as: - High calorie count: as mentioned earlier, Mexican street corn can be high in calories, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in excess or with other high-calorie foods. - High fat and sodium content: if the toppings used in Mexican street corn are too heavy or are made with processed ingredients, they can be high in unhealthy fats and sodium, which can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems. - Potential contamination: since Mexican street corn is typically sold by street vendors, there is a risk of contamination or foodborne illness if the corn or toppings are not handled and cooked properly. To reduce these risks, it's important to choose high-quality ingredients, wash your hands and utensils before handling food, and cook the corn and toppings thoroughly. You should also avoid eating Mexican street corn if you have certain allergies, dietary restrictions, or health conditions that may be aggravated by the toppings or cooking methods.

Recommended serving size for Mexican Street Corn

Given its high calorie count and potential drawbacks, it's important to consume Mexican street corn in moderation and in the right serving size. While there is no one-size-fits-all recommendation, here are some guidelines to keep in mind: - Aim for a serving size of 1 corn cob, which can range from 100-400 calories, depending on the size and toppings used. - If you're watching your calorie intake, consider sharing a corn cob with a friend or opting for a smaller serving size. - Choose healthier toppings or make your own version of elote at home, using fresh and natural ingredients. By following these recommendations, you can still enjoy the taste and experience of Mexican street corn without compromising your health or nutrition goals.

How to prepare Mexican Street Corn in a healthier way

If you're a fan of Mexican street corn but want to make it healthier, here are some tips to try: - Grill the corn instead of boiling it, as this can preserve more nutrients and add a smoky flavor. - Use less mayo or sour cream and choose a lighter dressing or sauce, such as Greek yogurt or hot sauce. - Choose a low-fat and low-sodium cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, and use it sparingly. - Add more vegetables and fruits to your Mexican street corn, such as diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, which can provide more fiber and nutrients. - Use fresh and natural ingredients, such as homemade spice blends, organic corn, and grass-fed butter, which can enhance the taste and nutrition of your Mexican street corn. By experimenting with different recipes and cooking methods, you can create a healthier and more satisfying version of Mexican street corn that's tailored to your taste and preferences.

Alternative ways to enjoy Mexican Street Corn

Mexican street corn can be a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in different dishes and cuisines. Here are some alternative ways to enjoy Mexican street corn: - Mexican street corn salad: combine grilled corn with black beans, tomatoes, avocado, and a vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing and nutritious salad. - Mexican street corn tacos: fill soft corn tortillas with grilled corn, shredded chicken or tofu, and your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, cheese, and salsa. - Mexican street corn dip: blend grilled corn with cream cheese, sour cream, and spices for a creamy and flavorful dip that's perfect for parties and gatherings. By thinking outside the box and experimenting with different recipes, you can elevate the taste and nutrition of Mexican street corn and incorporate it into your daily meals and snacks.

Pairings for Mexican Street Corn

Mexican street corn can be paired with different foods and beverages, depending on your taste and mood. Here are some popular pairings for elote: - Mexican beer or margarita: elote is a classic pairing with cold beer or margaritas, which can balance the spiciness and richness of the toppings. - Grilled meats or veggies: elote can be a tasty side dish for grilled meats or veggies, such as steak, chicken, or tofu. - Guacamole or salsa: elote can be served with guacamole or salsa, which can add more flavor and nutrition to the dish. - Churros or ice cream: elote can be a satisfying dessert when paired with churros or ice cream, especially if the corn is grilled and sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. By finding the right pairings for your Mexican street corn, you can enhance the taste and enjoyment of the dish and create a memorable culinary experience.