Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe

Ingredients

Corn and Peppers

The key to creating a delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad lies in the ingredients used, particularly the corn and peppers.

Corn is one of the main attractions in this recipe, providing natural sweetness and creaminess. There are several types of corn that can be used, including:

Fresh corn: This is the most preferred type of corn for Mexican Street Corn Salad, as it provides the best texture and flavor.
Canned corn: While canned corn is a convenient option, it lacks the sweetness and texture of fresh corn.

The peppers in this recipe add a burst of color and a spicy kick. There are two main types of peppers used:

Jalapeños: These peppers have a moderate level of heat and provide a classic flavor to the dish.
Diced green chilies: These peppers add a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the corn perfectly.

Other key ingredients in this recipe include:

Olive oil: This is used for sautéing the onions and garlic at the beginning of the recipe.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a fresh, herbal flavor that pairs well with corn and peppers.
Lime juice: This adds a tangy, citrusy flavor to balance out the sweetness of the corn.

In summary, the key ingredients in Mexican Street Corn Salad are high-quality corn, peppers (preferably jalapeños and diced green chilies), olive oil, onions, garlic, cilantro, and lime juice. These ingredients come together to create a delicious, flavorful salad that is perfect for summer.

1 cup cooked corn kernels

Ingredients: To make a delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad, you will need the following ingredients.

The star ingredient of this salad is corn, and we are using 1 cup of cooked corn kernels. These can be fresh or frozen, but make sure they are thawed first. You can also use canned corn if that’s what you have on hand.

Mexican Street Corn Salad is not just about the corn, though! It’s a combination of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more. In addition to the corn kernels, we’ll also need:

1 cup diced red bell pepper, adding a sweet crunch to our salad
1 cup diced red onion, which adds a punch of flavor and texture
2 cups cooked black beans, providing protein and fiber to the dish
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for a burst of fresh flavor and a pop of color
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice, adding a tangy and refreshing touch
1 teaspoon ground cumin, bringing a warm and earthy flavor to the party
Salt and pepper to taste, because you can never have too much of a good thing!

Now that we’ve got all our ingredients ready to go, let’s talk about the preparation. To make this Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe, follow these easy steps:

(Your instructions here)

1 red bell pepper, diced

The ingredient list for this delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad includes a variety of vibrant and flavorful components that come together to create a truly authentic and mouthwatering dish.

The first ingredient we’ll focus on is the 1 red bell pepper, diced.

A red bell pepper adds a pop of color and sweetness to the salad, its crunchy texture providing a nice contrast to the creamy elements. To dice the bell pepper, start by cutting off the top and bottom ends to create stability.

Next, slice the pepper in half lengthwise, then cut out the seeds and membranes, taking care not to puncture the surrounding flesh.

Now, lay one of the pepper halves flat on the cutting board and slice it into thin strips, working your way down the length of the pepper. Continue this process with the remaining bell pepper half.

Finally, cut the strips into small, uniform pieces to complete the dicing process.

The resulting diced red bell pepper is now ready to be added to the Mexican Street Corn Salad recipe, bringing its sweet and crunchy goodness to the dish.

1 green chile pepper, diced

The green chile pepper is a fundamental ingredient in many Mexican dishes, including the popular Mexican Street Corn Salad recipe.

Diced green chile peppers are commonly used to add flavor and heat to salsas, salads, and other savory dishes.

The dicing of the green chile pepper refers to cutting it into small cubes, typically about 1/4 inch in size.

This process helps to release the flavor compounds contained within the pepper, allowing them to be evenly distributed throughout the salad.

In the context of Mexican Street Corn Salad, diced green chile peppers are often combined with other ingredients such as grilled corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and feta cheese.

The heat level of the diced green chile pepper can vary depending on the type of pepper used and individual tolerance for spice.

In general, milder green peppers, such as Anaheim or poblano peppers, are preferred for this recipe to provide a subtle yet pleasant flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

When selecting a green chile pepper, it’s essential to choose one that is firm and has no signs of softness or mold, ensuring optimal freshness and flavor.

The diced green chile pepper should be added towards the end of preparation to preserve its texture and prevent overcooking, which can result in a loss of heat and flavor.

Onion, Garlic, and Cilantro

The star ingredients in a delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad are a mix of fresh, flavorful components that come together to create a mouth-watering dish.

Here are some key ingredients used in this recipe:

Onion:A medium-sized onion is a crucial component, providing sweetness and a punch of flavor. When sautéed until translucent, it adds depth to the salad.
Garlic:A clove or two of minced garlic is added to enhance the flavor profile. Garlic’s pungency complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Cilantro:This fragrant herb adds freshness and a distinct taste. Chopped cilantro sprinkled on top brings visual appeal and fragrance to the dish.

The choice of onion, garlic, and cilantro can make or break this recipe, as they are fundamental to Mexican Street Corn Salad’s character. Freshness is paramount, so choose ingredients with vibrant colors and minimal browning for optimal flavor.

1 small red onion, diced

The star ingredient in this Mexican Street Corn Salad recipe is a small red onion, which adds a punch of flavor and crunch to the dish.

Diced into small, uniform pieces, the onion will distribute its sweetness and pungency throughout the salad, complementing the other ingredients perfectly.

The key to getting the best results from your red onion is to use a small one, rather than a large or medium-sized onion.

This ensures that you end up with a decent amount of onion without overpowering the rest of the dish with too much flavor.

Make sure to dice the red onion finely, so that it’s evenly distributed throughout the salad and doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb.

If you want to get really authentic, use a Morada or other sweet onion variety, which is specifically bred for its sweet flavor and crunchy texture.

2 cloves garlic, minced

The ingredients for this delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad recipe include a variety of flavorful components that come together to create a tasty and refreshing dish.

Here are the specific ingredients you’ll need:

2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears of corn)
1 cup diced red bell pepper
1 cup diced cucumber
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
2 cloves garlic, minced (as detailed below)
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
1 lime, juiced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
8 ounces Mexican crema or sour cream (see notes)
Shredded cheese, such as queso fresco, Oaxaca cheese, or Monterey Jack (optional)

Now, let’s take a closer look at the minced garlic ingredient:

The 2 cloves of garlic needed for this recipe should be peeled and minced to release their flavorful compounds.

To mince the garlic, you can use a garlic press or chop it finely with a knife until it reaches a pulpy consistency.

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Cilantro is a key ingredient in many Mexican dishes, and in the case of this Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe, it adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

The 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro called for in this recipe may seem like a small amount, but trust us – it makes a big difference. Cilantro has a distinctive, slightly bitter flavor that’s balanced by its bright, citrusy undertones.

When chopping the cilantro, be sure to use only the leaves and stems of the plant, and avoid using any of the woody stalks. You can also bruise the leaves with your fingers or the flat side of a chef’s knife to release their oils and intensify their flavor.

Cilantro is a relatively delicate herb that’s prone to losing its flavor and texture quickly when exposed to heat, light, or moisture. To get the most out of it in this recipe, try to chop it just before adding it to the salad, and use it in small amounts to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.

Some people may be sensitive to the flavor of cilantro, so feel free to adjust the amount used in this recipe to taste. If you’re not a fan of cilantro at all, you can substitute it with parsley or basil – just be aware that these herbs have slightly different flavors and textures than cilantro.

Overall, the 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous flavor to this Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters!

Other Ingredients

The star ingredient of this recipe is Grilled Corn , also known as Elote. Fresh corn on the cob is grilled to perfection, then chopped and added to the salad.

Other key ingredients include Diced Red Bell Peppers and Diced Tomatoes, which provide a burst of color and flavor. The sweetness of these vegetables balances out the savory flavors in the dish.

The recipe also calls for Cilantro, a herb commonly used in Mexican cuisine to add freshness and depth to dishes. It’s often referred to as Mexican Parsley due to its citrusy flavor profile.

In addition to these ingredients, the salad includes Chopped Red Onion, which adds a pungent flavor and crunchy texture. The onion is a key component in many Mexican salads, including this one.

The dressing for the salad consists of a mixture of Lime Juice and Cumin, which provides a tangy and earthy flavor combination. These ingredients are commonly used in Mexican cuisine to add depth and brightness to dishes.

The recipe also includes other ingredients such as Salt and Black Pepper, which are used to season the salad. Other optional ingredients, such as Diced Jalapenos or Crumbled Queso Fresco, can be added to give the salad an extra kick of flavor.

1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped

The jalapeño pepper is a key ingredient in this recipe, adding a spicy kick to the salad.
Jalapeños are a type of chili pepper, specifically a cultivar of the species Capsicum annuum.
They are native to Mexico and Central America, where they have been cultivated for thousands of years.
The word “jalapeño” comes from the Nahuatl language, in which it is written as “xalapin,” meaning “onion water.”
This name refers to the fact that jalapeños were often pickled in a mixture of onions and vinegar.
Jalapeños are known for their spicy, slightly smoky flavor and their crunchy texture.
They have a moderate level of heat, with an Scoville heat unit (SHU) rating of 2,500-8,000.
This makes them suitable for use in a wide range of dishes, from salsas and sauces to salads and soups.
To prepare the jalapeño pepper for this recipe, simply seed it and finely chop it into small pieces.

2 tablespoons lime juice

Lime juice is a key ingredient in many Mexican recipes, including the classic street corn salad. Freshly squeezed or bottled, lime juice adds a burst of citrus flavor and helps to balance the richness of other ingredients. In this recipe, 2 tablespoons of lime juice are used to bring together the flavors of the grilled corn, onions, cotija cheese, and herbs.

The acidity in lime juice also helps to break down the starches in the corn, making it easier for the flavors to meld together. Additionally, the citrus flavor complements the natural sweetness of the corn, creating a delicious and harmonious taste experience. In some cases, lime juice can be used as a marinade or dressing, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

It’s worth noting that the type of lime used can impact the flavor of the dish. Key limes, which are more sour than Tahiti limes, are often preferred for their unique and intense citrus flavor. However, in many recipes, including this Mexican street corn salad, a combination of both types or just Tahiti lime juice may be used.

To incorporate lime juice into your Mexican street corn salad, simply squeeze 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice over the mixture after it’s been seasoned with salt and pepper. Alternatively, you can mix the lime juice into the dressing ingredients before tossing them with the salad. Either way, be sure to adjust the amount of lime juice according to your personal taste preferences.

The versatility of lime juice in Mexican cuisine is a testament to its importance as an ingredient. From tacos and soups to salads and salsas, lime juice adds depth, brightness, and flavor to countless dishes. Its ability to enhance flavors, balance acidity, and add aroma makes it an essential component of many recipes.

1 teaspoon ground cumin

Cumin is a crucial ingredient in many Mexican dishes, including the popular Mexican Street Corn Salad. One teaspoon of ground cumin is typically added to this recipe to give it its authentic flavor and aroma. Cumin has a warm, earthy taste that complements the sweetness of corn, the tanginess of lime juice, and the spiciness of chili peppers.

The cumin used in Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe is usually ground from cumin seeds, which are native to India but have become an integral part of Mexican cuisine. The seeds contain a compound called cuminaldehyde that gives them their distinctive flavor and aroma. When ground into a fine powder, the cumin seeds can be easily incorporated into dishes like salads, soups, and stews.

In the context of the Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe, the cumin adds depth and warmth to the dish. It pairs well with the natural sweetness of corn, the tanginess of lime juice, and the spiciness of chili peppers. The combination creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is characteristic of traditional Mexican cuisine.

It’s worth noting that the use of cumin in Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe is not just limited to its flavor profile. Cumin also has health benefits that make it an excellent addition to this dish. Cumin contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help protect against chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

To get the most out of your cumin, be sure to store it properly in a cool, dry place. Ground cumin can lose its flavor and aroma quickly if exposed to heat or moisture. It’s also essential to use high-quality cumin seeds that are freshly ground to ensure maximum flavor and potency.

In summary, one teaspoon of ground cumin is an essential ingredient in Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe. Its warm, earthy flavor complements the sweetness of corn, tanginess of lime juice, and spiciness of chili peppers, making it a harmonious addition to this dish. With its health benefits and ability to add depth and warmth to the recipe, cumin is an excellent choice for anyone looking to create authentic Mexican cuisine.

Salt and pepper to taste

When it comes to adding flavor to our Mexican Street Corn Salad, two essential ingredients come into play: salt and pepper. These two seasonings may seem simple, but they’re crucial in bringing out the natural flavors of the other ingredients in the salad.

The term “to taste” is a bit subjective, as it implies that the amount of seasoning added will vary depending on individual preferences. However, when cooking with salt and pepper, it’s often more about finding the right balance than adding an exact measurement.

Salt, in particular, plays a significant role in enhancing flavors. It acts as a preservative, tenderizes food, and even affects our perception of sweet and sour tastes. When using salt to season your Mexican Street Corn Salad, keep in mind that different types of salt have varying levels of coarseness. For example, flaky sea salt adds a more delicate texture and flavor compared to kosher salt. Experiment with different salts to find the one you like best.

Pepper, on the other hand, is often used in tandem with salt to create balance. While it’s primarily known for its sharpness, pepper also contains antioxidants that can help protect against certain health conditions. When using black or white pepper in your Mexican Street Corn Salad, remember that a little goes a long way. The delicate flavor of the peppers won’t overpower the other ingredients, but they’ll add depth and complexity to the dish.

Ultimately, when it comes to adding salt and pepper to taste, trust your instincts and experiment with different proportions until you find the perfect balance for your Mexican Street Corn Salad. The combination of these two seasonings will elevate the flavors in the salad and leave a lasting impression on anyone who tries it.

Instructions

Cook the Corn and Chill It

To cook the corn, start by rinsing 4-5 ears of fresh corn under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Next, dry the corn with a clean towel to prevent it from steaming instead of roasting.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the ears of corn on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving some space between each ear.

Drizzle the corn with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with salt to taste. You can also add any other seasonings you like, such as paprika or garlic powder, but be careful not to overpower the delicate flavor of the corn.

Roast the corn in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. The corn is done when it’s lightly charred and tender, with a slightly caramelized texture.

Once the corn is cooked, let it cool down to room temperature. You can speed up the cooling process by placing the ears of corn in an ice bath or by wrapping them in plastic wrap and refrigerating them for 30 minutes.

After the corn has cooled, you can remove the kernels from the cob using a sharp knife or a corn stripper. Be careful not to press too hard, as this can cause the kernels to break apart and become uneven.

Now that your corn is cooked and chilled, it’s ready to be used in your Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe! Simply chop the cooled corn into small pieces and add it to the salad along with any other ingredients you like, such as diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, or crumbled queso fresco.

Cook corn kernels until tender. Let cool to room temperature.

To make a delicious and flavorful Mexican Street Corn Salad, it’s essential to follow a series of instructions that ensure every ingredient is prepared correctly. The first step involves cooking corn kernels until they are tender. This process helps break down the starches in the corn, making it easier to digest and allowing its natural sweetness to shine through.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook corn kernels:

Cook fresh or frozen corn kernels in boiling water for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly softened. You can also use canned corn if you prefer.
Drain the cooked corn kernels to remove excess moisture, then let them cool to room temperature.

After cooling, the next step involves preparing the other ingredients for the Mexican Street Corn Salad. Some of these may include diced tomatoes, chopped onions, minced garlic, crumbled cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro or parsley. The quantities you use will depend on personal preference and the number of servings needed.

To assemble the salad, follow these steps:

In a large bowl, combine the cooled corn kernels with your chosen ingredients (tomatoes, onions, garlic, cheese, herbs).
Mix all the ingredients together gently to avoid crushing the corn or breaking down the other components.

Before serving, you can drizzle some lime juice over the salad for added flavor and a burst of freshness. You can also sprinkle additional cotija cheese on top if desired. This delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad is now ready to be enjoyed as a side dish or light lunch.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

This step is crucial in allowing the flavors to fully integrate and develop their depth, resulting in a more complex and satisfying taste experience.

The 30-minute refrigeration period is designed to give the ingredients sufficient time to meld together harmoniously.

During this time, the acidity from the lime juice will begin to break down the cell walls of the vegetables, releasing their natural flavors and enzymes that enhance the overall flavor profile of the salad.

The creaminess of the mayonnaise or sour cream will also start to seep into the other ingredients, binding them together and adding a richness to the dish.

As for the seasonings and spices, they will continue to infuse their unique flavors into the salad, contributing to its overall aroma and character.

In essence, refrigerating the Mexican Street Corn Salad for at least 30 minutes is essential in allowing the different ingredients to come together in perfect harmony, resulting in a delicious and well-balanced dish that showcases the best of Mexican cuisine.

This step also allows the flavors to mature and intensify, making the salad even more appetizing and enjoyable to eat.

Why Refrigeration is Important:

It allows the flavors to meld together harmoniously
Enhances the overall flavor profile of the salad
Binds the ingredients together with a creamy texture
Infuses the seasonings and spices into the salad for added aroma and character

Tips for Refrigerating:

Make sure to refrigerate the salad at a consistent temperature below 40°F (4°C)
Keep the salad covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent contamination and spoilage
Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes, but not more than 24 hours before serving

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Mexican Street Corn Salad is prepared to perfection, with flavors that are balanced and delicious.

Tips and Variations

Using Fresh Corn from the Farm

To get the most out of using fresh corn from the farm for a delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad, it’s essential to choose the right type of corn and handle it properly.

When selecting ears of corn, look for those with bright green husks and tightly wrapped kernels. The sweetness and tenderness of the corn will be directly proportional to its freshness and ripeness.

Tips

Store fresh corn in a cool, dry place or refrigerate it within a day or two of purchase. This will help maintain its quality and prevent spoilage.
Choose ears with slightly damp husks, as this is an indicator that they are freshly picked.

To prepare the corn for the Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe, shuck it by removing the leaves from each ear. Then, cut off one of the ends to create a flat surface and stabilize the ear while you grill or boil it.

Grilling Fresh Corn

Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F).
Shuck and prepare the corn as described above. Place each ear directly on the grill, turning occasionally until it’s lightly charred and tender (about 10-15 minutes).

If you prefer to boil the corn instead of grilling it, place each ear in a large pot filled with enough water to cover it. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce it to medium-low heat and simmer for about 5-10 minutes or until tender.

Peeling Corn Kernels

Once the corn is cooked (whether by grilling or boiling), let it cool slightly before handling it. You can either peel the kernels off with your fingers, a knife, or specialized corn peeler.
For the Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe, you’ll need about 2-3 cups of peeled and chopped corn kernels.

Variations and Add-ins

Add diced onions, bell peppers, jalapeños or other types of hot peppers for an extra kick of flavor.
Mix in crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese to give the salad a rich and tangy texture.
Add some chopped cilantro leaves for a fresh and herbaceous note.

Choose fresh corn when in season, with husks tightly wrapped around each ear.

To maximize flavor and texture, it’s essential to choose fresh corn when it’s in season. Look for ears with husks tightly wrapped around each ear, as this ensures that the kernels are protected from drying out and becoming bland. When selecting corn, avoid those with dry or yellow leaves, as they may be past their prime.

Some people swear by the taste of grilled corn, while others prefer it boiled. Here’s a tip for grilling corn: brush each ear with a little bit of oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper before throwing them on the grill. Rotate the ears every 5-7 minutes until they’re slightly charred and tender.

For boiling corn, follow these steps:

Cook the corn in boiling water for about 10-12 minutes, or until it’s tender but still crisp.
Drain the corn and immediately submerge it in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

An alternative method is to microwave the corn on high for 2-3 minutes, checking every minute to avoid overcooking. This method works well if you’re short on time or want a faster approach.

To add extra flavor to your Mexican Street Corn Salad, consider incorporating some of these variations:

Roasted corn: Toss the kernels with a little bit of oil and roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will caramelize the natural sugars in the corn and give it a nutty flavor.
Mexican-style street corn seasoning blend: Mix together chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful blend that adds depth to your salad.

When preparing the Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe, feel free to customize it with other ingredients like diced tomatoes, red onions, cilantro, avocado, lime juice, or crumbled queso fresco. This versatile recipe allows you to experiment and make it your own!

Grilled or roasted corn is a great alternative to boiled or steamed.

Grilling or roasting corn on the cob is an excellent way to add smoky flavor to your Mexican Street Corn Salad, especially if you’re looking for a break from traditional boiled or steamed corn. This method caramelizes the natural sugars in the corn, resulting in a rich and slightly charred taste that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

When grilling or roasting corn, make sure to cut it off the cob once it’s cool enough to handle. You can then chop or slice it into smaller pieces and add it to your salad along with the other ingredients. This will help you achieve a nice balance of flavors and textures throughout the dish.

To take your Mexican Street Corn Salad to the next level, try using different types of corn, such as Mexican street corn (also known as elote), which has a slightly sweeter flavor profile than regular corn. You can also experiment with various seasonings and spices to give your salad an extra boost of flavor.

One popular variation is to add some diced red onion or shallot to the salad for a punch of sweetness and crunch. This will not only add texture but also provide a nice contrast in flavor to the smoky corn. Simply sauté the onions with a bit of oil until they’re softened and then mix them into your salad.

Another great way to enhance your Mexican Street Corn Salad is by adding some diced jalapeño or serrano peppers for an extra kick of heat. This will add a nice spicy flavor that will complement the smoky corn and other ingredients perfectly. Just be sure to adjust the amount of heat to your liking, as some people prefer milder flavors.

You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as queso fresco or crumbled cotija, to give your salad a creamy and tangy flavor. Simply sprinkle the cheese over the top of the salad and serve immediately, so it doesn’t get soggy.

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Ignatius Thornfield

Recipe Connoisseur at myfab5.com

Ignatius Thornfield, the discerning Recipe Connoisseur behind this site, is a culinary aficionado dedicated to transforming pet dining into an art form. With an exquisite taste for flavors and a keen eye for nutritious combinations, Ignatius shares a curated collection of gourmet pet recipes. His site is a sanctuary for pet owners seeking to indulge their furry friends with delectable and health-conscious meals. Ignatius's expertise in the realm of pet cuisine is evident in the sophisticated and thoughtfully crafted content he presents. For those who appreciate the finer culinary experiences for their pets, Ignatius Thornfield's site is a treasure trove of gastronomic delights.

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