Ingredients
Scale
- 12 large hard-boiled eggs, peeled
- 1 cup fresh or frozen (thawed) corn kernels
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt)
- 1/4 cup finely crumbled Cotija cheese, plus 2 tbsp for garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon Tajín Clásico seasoning (or chili powder blend)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro, divided
Instructions
- Step 1: Slice the hard-boiled eggs in half lengthwise and carefully scoop the yolks into a medium bowl. Set the egg white halves aside on a serving platter. Mash the yolks completely with a fork until smooth.
- Step 2: Heat a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and dry-roast them for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly charred and softened. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Step 3: Add the mayonnaise, lime juice, and Tajín seasoning to the mashed yolks. Mix until the filling is smooth and creamy. Stir in half of the crumbled Cotija cheese and 1 tablespoon of the chopped cilantro.
- Step 4: Gently fold the roasted corn kernels into the yolk mixture. Taste the filling and adjust seasoning, adding a pinch of salt if necessary (Cotija is salty, so usually none is needed).
- Step 5: Use a piping bag fitted with a star tip (or simply a small spoon) to fill the reserved egg white halves evenly with the Elote mixture. Garnish each deviled egg with the remaining crumbled Cotija cheese and a sprinkle of the remaining fresh cilantro. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.
Notes
- For maximum freshness, store the plain egg white halves and the prepared filling separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days, assembling them just before serving.
- If chilled for more than an hour, remove the plated deviled eggs from the refrigerator 15 minutes before serving to ensure the filling texture is optimally creamy and easy to enjoy.
- Enhance the Elote theme by serving these alongside thinly sliced watermelon sprinkled with extra Tajín seasoning for a balanced sweet, spicy, and savory appetizer spread.
- Don't skip dry-roasting the corn kernels; this crucial step caramelizes the starches, deepens the corn's natural sweetness, and provides the authentic smoky char texture necessary for true Elote flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American