Elote Ramen

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elote Ramen is a fun and flavorful fusion that elevates traditional ramen to a new level. The sweet and smoky charred corn is a perfect complement to the creamy sauce, while the chili powder and lime add a bright kick. The combination of textures—creamy, crunchy, and tender—makes this dish irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile: you can customize it with your favorite toppings like cilantro, cheese, or avocado for an extra burst of flavor. If you’re a fan of both ramen and elote, this dish will quickly become a new favorite!

Ingredients

• 2 packages ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packet)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• 1/4 cup grated Cotija cheese (or Parmesan as a substitute)

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Lime wedges (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the ramen noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions (usually 3-4 minutes). Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.

2. Prepare the corn: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the corn and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is charred and lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Make the creamy sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the smoked paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the heavy cream, mayonnaise, and lime juice to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.

4. Combine the noodles and sauce: Add the cooked ramen noodles to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the noodles evenly with the creamy mixture.

5. Add the corn: Stir in the charred corn, Cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro (if using). Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

6. Serve: Divide the Elote Ramen into bowls, garnishing with additional Cotija cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 2

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: For a heartier meal, top your Elote Ramen with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a fried egg.

• Vegetarian version: This recipe is already vegetarian, but for a vegan option, you can substitute the mayonnaise and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan mayo.

• Spicy version: If you like your food spicier, add a few slices of fresh jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the ramen.

• Extra toppings: Try adding avocado slices, extra lime, or even a sprinkle of chili powder on top for more flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Elote Ramen can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to bring the noodles back to life. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before sautéing to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Cotija?

Yes, if you can’t find Cotija cheese, you can use grated Parmesan or even feta cheese as a substitute.

3. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! To add spice, you can use chili flakes, hot sauce, or even fresh jalapeños. Stir these in during the sauce-making process for an extra kick.

4. Can I make Elote Ramen ahead of time?

While the noodles and sauce can be prepared ahead of time, the corn tastes best when it’s freshly charred. If you’re prepping ahead, cook and store the noodles, sauce, and corn separately, then combine them just before serving.

5. Can I use instant ramen noodles for this recipe?

Yes, instant ramen noodles will work well for this recipe. Just discard the seasoning packet and cook the noodles according to the package instructions.

6. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the ramen. Sauté them with the corn for extra flavor.

7. Is this dish gluten-free?

This dish is not gluten-free because of the ramen noodles, which contain wheat. However, you can substitute gluten-free noodles if needed.

8. How do I get the corn to char properly?

To get a good char, make sure your skillet is hot and that you don’t overcrowd the corn. Let the corn cook undisturbed for a minute or two before stirring to allow the edges to brown.

9. Can I make this dish spicier without using hot peppers?

Yes, you can add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to the sauce to give it an extra kick without the need for fresh peppers.

10. Can I use a different type of noodle for Elote Ramen?

Yes, you can substitute traditional ramen noodles with other types of noodles like udon or rice noodles for a different texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Elote Ramen is a delightful and creative dish that combines the best of Mexican street food with the comforting goodness of ramen. The creamy, tangy, and spicy sauce paired with the charred corn creates a dynamic flavor profile that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a ramen lover or someone who enjoys trying new and exciting dishes, Elote Ramen offers a unique, satisfying experience. With a variety of ways to customize and serve it, this fusion dish is perfect for anyone looking to add a little spice to their dinner rotation.

Elote Ramen

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Elote Ramen is a fusion dish that combines the bold flavors of Mexican street corn (elote) with the comfort of ramen. It features tender noodles, roasted corn, a creamy sauce, and traditional Mexican seasonings, offering a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Sautéing, Boiling
• Cuisine: Fusion, Mexican
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1. 2 packages ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packet)
   
   2 tablespoons butter
   
   1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
   
   1 tablespoon olive oil
   
   1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
   
   1/4 teaspoon chili powder
   
   1/2 cup heavy cream
   
   1/4 cup mayonnaise
   
   2 tablespoons lime juice
   
   1/4 cup grated Cotija cheese (or Parmesan as a substitute)
   
   1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
   
   1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
   
   Salt and pepper, to taste
   
   Lime wedges (for serving)

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Instructions

Cook the ramen noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions (usually 3-4 minutes). Once cooked, drain the noodles and set aside.

1. Prepare the corn: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the corn and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is charred and lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Make the creamy sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the smoked paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the heavy cream, mayonnaise, and lime juice to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
3. Combine the noodles and sauce: Add the cooked ramen noodles to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the noodles evenly with the creamy mixture.
4. Add the corn: Stir in the charred corn, Cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro (if using). Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Serve: Divide the Elote Ramen into bowls, garnishing with additional Cotija cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Add protein: For a heartier meal, top your Elote Ramen with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a fried egg.
• Vegetarian version: Substitute the mayonnaise and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan mayo for a vegan option.
• Spicy version: Add fresh jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce for extra heat.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 30mg