Esquites Facts for Kids

Esquites being fried in butter

Esquites is a yummy Mexican snack, often called elote en vaso (which means "corn in a cup"). You can find it sold at shops and market stalls all over Mexico. The name esquites comes from an old language called Nahuatl, and it means "toasted corn."

What is Esquites?
- How is Esquites Made?
- How to Enjoy Esquites
Esquites Around the World
- Mexican Corn in Other Countries
Images for kids
See also

What is Esquites?

Esquites is usually made from corn that is fully grown, not super fresh or dried. First, the corn kernels are boiled in salty water until they are tender.

How is Esquites Made?

After boiling, the corn kernels are gently cooked in butter. Other tasty ingredients are added, like onions, a little bit of chopped pequin chiles (for a tiny kick!), a special herb called epazote, and more salt. This mix is cooked until it's just right.

How to Enjoy Esquites

Esquites is served hot in small cups, making it easy to eat on the go. People love to add different toppings to make it even more delicious! You can squeeze fresh lime juice on top, sprinkle some chile powder or hot sauce, add a pinch of extra salt, and often a dollop of mayonnaise. Each bite is a mix of savory, tangy, and sometimes spicy flavors!

Esquites Around the World

This popular corn snack isn't just loved in Mexico!

Mexican Corn in Other Countries

In Iran, people enjoy a similar dish called "Mexican corn" (ذرت مکزیکی, zorrat mekziki).
In Bulgaria, it's known as "corn in cup" (царевица в чашка, tsarevitsa v chashka).

It just goes to show how much people everywhere love a good corn snack!