Mexican Street Corn Soup
Introduction
Mexican Street Corn Soup, inspired by the beloved street food elote, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of corn with a variety of spices and herbs. This creamy soup is not only comforting but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect option for weeknight dinners or gatherings. With a combination of fresh ingredients, this recipe captures the essence of Mexican cuisine in a warm and satisfying bowl.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Sweet Corn – 4 cups, fresh or frozen
Onion – 1 medium, chopped
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Red Bell Pepper – 1, diced
Jalapeño – 1, seeded and chopped (optional for spice)
Vegetable Broth – 4 cups
Coconut Milk – 1 cup (or heavy cream for a richer flavor)
Lime Juice – 2 tablespoons
Cilantro – 1/4 cup, chopped
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Queso Fresco – for garnish
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time – 30 minutes
Total Time – 50 minutes
Yield – 6 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Corn
Remove the kernels from the corn cobs using a sharp knife. If using frozen corn, measure out the appropriate amount and set it aside.
Cook the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, and jalapeño, and sauté until the onions are translucent.
Add the Corn
Stir in the corn kernels (fresh or frozen) and cook for a few minutes until the corn is tender and slightly caramelized.
Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in vegetable broth, then add cumin, chili powder, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to the desired consistency, or transfer it in batches to a regular blender. Blend until smooth.
Stir in Dairy
Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in heavy cream or coconut milk for added richness. Heat through without boiling.
Serve the Soup
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with toppings such as cilantro, crumbled queso fresco, and lime wedges.
Notes
Fresh Corn
Using fresh corn will give the soup a sweeter flavor and a better texture compared to frozen corn.
Spice Level
Adjust the amount of jalapeño and chili powder according to your preferred spice level.
Vegan Option
To make this soup vegan, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and check that the vegetable broth is vegan.
Leftovers
This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stove.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy the soup with tortilla chips or a side of crusty bread for a heartier meal.
Cook techniques
Roasting Corn
Roasting enhances the natural sweetness of the corn. It can be done in an oven or on a grill until the kernels are slightly charred.
Sautéing Vegetables
Sautéing onions, garlic, and spices in oil brings out their flavors and adds depth to the soup.
Blending
Blending cooked ingredients creates a creamy texture for the soup. This technique can be done using an immersion blender or a standard blender.
Simmering
Simmering the soup allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and delicious dish.
Garnishing
Garnishing with fresh ingredients like cilantro, lime, or cheese adds visual appeal and a burst of flavor to each bowl of soup.
FAQ
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen corn can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh corn in this recipe.
How can I make the soup spicier?
You can add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat in the soup.
Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
Yes, you can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk or nut-based cheeses.
How long does the soup last in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Conclusion
Enjoying Mexican Street Corn Soup brings the vibrant flavors of street food into your home. This delightful dish is not only comforting but also versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste. Enhance your dining experience by serving it as a starter or a main dish, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Mexican Street Corn
This classic side dish combines charred corn on the cob with a vibrant blend of mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime for a fresh and zesty accompaniment.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
A hearty soup made with shredded chicken, tortillas, and a rich tomato-based broth, garnished with avocado and crispy tortilla strips for a delightful twist.
Black Bean and Corn Salad
A refreshing salad that pairs black beans, corn, bell peppers, and avocado with a tangy lime dressing, making it a perfect side for any meal.
Chili Verde
A flavorful green chili made with pork and tomatillos, simmered to perfection and served with warm tortillas for a comforting and satisfying dish.
Quesadillas with Spinach and Cheese
Crispy tortillas filled with melted cheese and spinach, served with salsa or guacamole for a quick and delicious meal or appetizer.
