This Mexican Street Corn Soup is a delightful twist on the classic street food favorite. With vibrant flavors from fresh corn on the cob, this soup is perfect for gatherings, cozy dinners, or as a comforting lunch. The combination of spices and creamy ingredients creates a rich and satisfying dish that pays homage to traditional Mexican cuisine while being easy to prepare at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Delight: This soup captures the essence of Mexican street corn with every bite, making it a flavor-packed experience.
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you can whip up this soup in just an hour, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh corn enhances the taste significantly compared to frozen or canned options, ensuring a burst of flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it hot for dinner or chill it for a refreshing appetizer; this soup fits any occasion beautifully.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy texture and zesty notes make it an inviting dish that guests will love.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking experience and helps achieve the best results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick pot or cast iron Dutch oven
- Tongs
- Blender or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick pot or cast iron Dutch oven: Ideal for even heat distribution, which helps in achieving that perfect char on the corn.
- Blender or food processor: Necessary for pureeing the soup to a smooth consistency, ensuring all flavors meld together beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1/4 cup olive or vegetable oil
- 6 cups fresh corn kernels (from 8-10 shucked cobs; save 6 stripped cobs for simmering)
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1/4 teaspoon ancho chili powder (adjust based on heat preference)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
For Flavor Enhancement
- 2 large garlic cloves, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
For Creaminess
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated dry/aged Cotija cheese (plus extra for garnish; substitute with Parmesan or Romano if needed)
For Freshness and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
- 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons chopped cilantro (divided)
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Soup
Step 1: Heat the Base
Heat oil in a large, nonstick pot or cast iron Dutch oven until shimmering.
– Add corn kernels, chopped onion, ancho chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
– Cook over medium-high heat while stirring frequently until onions are soft and corn is lightly charred in spots (about 8-10 minutes).
Step 2: Add Garlic and Broth
Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
– Remove 1-1/2 cups of the corn mixture from the pot and set aside.
– Stir in broth along with the reserved stripped corn cobs. Scrape up any brown bits from the bottom.
– Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 20 minutes.
Step 3: Remove Corn Cobs
Use tongs to carefully remove the corn cobs from the pot and discard them.
Step 4: Puree the Soup
Stir sour cream and Cotija cheese into the soup mixture.
– Transfer soup in batches to a blender or food processor to puree until smooth.
Step 5: Final Touches
Return pureed soup to pot. Gently reheat if necessary.
– Stir in half (3/4 cup) of the reserved corn mixture, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Season with salt, pepper, and more chili powder as needed.
Step 6: Serve
Toss remaining reserved corn with lime zest and chopped cilantro.
– Serve hot topped with spoonfuls of this corn mixture along with additional Cotija cheese for garnish. Enjoy your delicious Mexican Street Corn Soup!
How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Soup
Serving Mexican Street Corn Soup can elevate your dining experience. This flavorful soup pairs well with various toppings and accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors.
Add a Flavorful Garnish
- Cotija Cheese: Sprinkle extra Cotija cheese on top for a creamy, salty finish.
- Chopped Cilantro: A fresh touch of cilantro adds brightness and a hint of herbal flavor.
- Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze in fresh juice.
Pair with Crunchy Toppings
- Tortilla Chips: Crushed tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch and texture contrast.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the soup’s flavors and adds richness.
Enjoy with Bread
- Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins pair wonderfully with the corn flavors.
How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Soup
To achieve the best version of Mexican Street Corn Soup, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn on the cob provides the best flavor; frozen or canned corn won’t deliver the same taste.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference for a personalized kick.
- Blend Smoothly: Ensure you puree the soup until smooth for a velvety texture that enhances enjoyment.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lime juice during cooking for balanced flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Soup
Complementing your Mexican Street Corn Soup with delightful side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some perfect options to consider:
- Guacamole: A creamy avocado dip that pairs perfectly with the soup’s flavors.
- Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and lime dressing.
- Spanish Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with spices complements the soup nicely.
- Grilled Shrimp Tacos: Light and flavorful tacos that add protein and zest to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies enhance the meal’s color and nutrition profile.
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, and spices mirrors the soup’s essence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Mexican Street Corn Soup, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.
- Using Frozen or Canned Corn: Fresh corn is key for the best flavor. Always opt for fresh corn on the cob instead of frozen or canned varieties.
- Overcooking the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter. Add it only after the onions are soft and cook it just until fragrant.
- Skipping the Broth Scraping Step: Don’t forget to scrape up the brown bits from the pot after adding broth. This step adds depth to your soup’s flavor.
- Not Adjusting Seasoning: Tastes can vary based on ingredients. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust with salt, pepper, and chili powder as needed.
- Neglecting Garnishes: Garnishes enhance both flavor and presentation. Don’t skip adding extra Cotija cheese and cilantro before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The soup will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Mexican Street Corn Soup
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- The soup can be kept for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Mexican Street Corn Soup
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequent questions about making Mexican Street Corn Soup:
What is Mexican Street Corn Soup?
Mexican Street Corn Soup is a creamy, flavorful dish inspired by traditional elote. It uses fresh corn, spices, and garnishes for a delicious meal.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and keep all other ingredients the same for a vegetarian version of Mexican Street Corn Soup.
How spicy is this soup?
The spiciness level can vary based on how much ancho chili powder you add. Start with less if you prefer a milder flavor, then adjust according to your taste.
What can I use instead of Cotija cheese?
If Cotija cheese is unavailable, Parmesan or Romano cheese can be excellent substitutes that still provide a similar salty flavor.
Can I customize the toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to add avocado slices, jalapeños, or even tortilla strips for crunch along with the Cotija cheese and cilantro.
Final Thoughts
Mexican Street Corn Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different toppings or spice levels according to your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Mexican Street Corn Soup
Mexican Street Corn Soup is a vibrant and comforting dish inspired by the beloved street food elote. This creamy soup brings together fresh corn, aromatic spices, and rich ingredients to create a delightful experience that’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. With its smooth texture and zesty finish, it captures the essence of traditional Mexican cuisine while being simple enough for weeknight meals. Serve it hot with your favorite toppings like Cotija cheese and fresh cilantro for an inviting touch that will impress family and friends alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves about 6 people
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 8-10 cobs)
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 2 large garlic cloves
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Cotija cheese (plus more for garnish)
- Lime juice and zest
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pot until shimmering. Add corn, onion, ancho chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until onions are soft and corn is lightly charred.
- Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant. Remove a portion of the corn mixture, then add the broth along with reserved stripped corn cobs. Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Discard corn cobs, puree the soup until smooth, then stir in sour cream and Cotija cheese.
- Mix in lime juice, zest, and half of the reserved corn mixture. Season to taste.
- Serve hot topped with additional corn mixture and Cotija cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
