These Mexican Street Corn Tostadas are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. Inspired by the traditional Mexican street food known as "elote," this dish transforms the classic corn on the cob into a handheld delight. The crispy tostada shell serves as a sturdy base, topped with creamy refried black beans, a zesty street corn mixture, and garnished with crumbled cotija cheese and a sprinkle of Tajín. Ready in just 25 minutes, it's a perfect dish for summer nights, casual dinners, or when you're craving something quick yet full of flavor.
Full Recipe:
For the Homemade Tostadas:
8 corn tortillas
1 tablespoon avocado oil
Kosher salt, to taste
For the Mexican Street Corn:
3 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6 large ears; canned works too)
1/4 cup finely diced red onion
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
1/2 cup full fat mayonnaise
Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
1/2 teaspoon Tajín seasoning (or to taste)
1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
For Assembly:
1 (14 oz) can refried black beans
Additional cotija cheese and Tajín for topping (optional)
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare Tostada Shells: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Lightly brush both sides of each corn tortilla with avocado oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.
Bake Tostadas: Place the prepared tortillas on the baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. If they aren't crispy after 10 minutes, add 2–3 more minutes. Leave them in the oven with the door open to keep warm.
Cook Corn: While the tortillas are baking, heat a medium skillet over medium heat with a splash of avocado oil. Add the fresh corn kernels and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Prepare Street Corn Mixture: In a bowl, combine the cooked corn, mayonnaise, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, Tajín seasoning, and crumbled cotija cheese. Mix well and adjust seasoning to taste.
Warm Refried Beans: In a small pot or microwave, warm the refried black beans until heated through.
Assemble Tostadas: Spread a layer of the warm refried beans over each crispy tortilla. Top generously with the street corn mixture. Garnish with additional cotija cheese and a sprinkle of Tajín if desired.
Calories: Approximately 285 kcal
Carbohydrates: ~35g
Protein: ~8g
Fat: ~12g
Saturated Fat: ~2g
Cholesterol: ~10mg
Sodium: ~400mg
Fiber: ~5g
Sugar: ~5g