Mexican Street Corn Soup Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a comforting and flavorful dish, look no further than this Mexican Street Corn Soup. This delightful recipe captures the essence of traditional street corn, or elote, by combining sweet corn with rich spices and creamy goodness. Start your culinary journey with this easy-to-follow recipe that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Not only is this soup hearty and satisfying, but it also offers a vibrant medley of flavors that will impress your family and friends alike. In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, this Mexican Street Corn Soup is an excellent option for anyone looking to explore the joys of cooking with fresh ingredients. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Soup

  • Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
  • Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Fresh Sweet Corn: Use either frozen or fresh corn kernels for a sweet crunch that’ll enhance the soup’s texture.
  • Onion: Choose a medium onion; finely chopped to provide a base flavor in the broth.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add a pungent aroma; use three to four cloves minced for optimal flavor.
  • Poblano Pepper: This mild pepper adds depth without overwhelming heat; roast it before dicing for enhanced smokiness.
  • Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk lends creaminess; it balances the spices beautifully while keeping the soup dairy-free.

For the Seasoning:

  • Cumin: A teaspoon of ground cumin adds an earthy note that complements the sweetness of the corn.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients—chop the onion and poblano pepper while mincing the garlic.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about two minutes.

Step 3: Add Poblano Pepper

Add diced poblano pepper to the pot and continue to sauté for another five minutes until softened.

Step 4: Incorporate Corn

Stir in the fresh sweet corn along with cumin. Cook everything together for an additional two minutes.

Step 5: Pour in Coconut Milk

Slowly pour coconut milk into the pot while stirring gently. Allow it to simmer on low heat for about ten minutes so flavors meld nicely.

Step 6: Blend Smooth (Optional)

For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer to a blender in batches before returning it back to heat.

Transfer to bowls and garnish with cilantro or cheese before serving!

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce leads to better flavor; try using seasonal corn if available.
  • Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of poblano pepper based on your heat preference; jalapeño could be substituted for more kick.
  • Add Toppings Wisely: Enhance presentation with toppings like crumbled feta cheese or avocado slices but keep them light to not overpower flavors.

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Soup

This Mexican Street Corn Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

  • Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
  • Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
  • Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the soup base in advance. Cook all ingredients except for the corn toppings and blend them together. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days before serving.
  • Storing: Leftover Mexican Street Corn Soup can be stored in the fridge for up to five days. Use an airtight container for best results, ensuring it remains fresh and flavorful.
  • Reheating: To reheat, transfer the soup to a pot and warm over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving again.

Suggestions for Mexican Street Corn Soup

Avoid Using Canned Corn

Using canned corn might seem convenient, but it can significantly alter the flavor and texture of your Mexican Street Corn Soup. Fresh corn on the cob provides a sweetness and crunch that canned alternatives simply cannot match. When preparing your soup, opt for fresh corn whenever possible. Not only does it enhance the taste, but it also adds a vibrant color to your dish. If fresh corn is out of season, consider using frozen corn as a second option. It will retain more natural flavors compared to canned varieties, ensuring your soup remains delicious and authentic.

Don’t Skip the Charring Process

Charring the corn is a crucial step that many home cooks overlook when making Mexican Street Corn Soup. This technique adds a smoky depth to the soup and enhances its overall flavor profile. You can achieve this by grilling or broiling the corn until it develops a nice char. The caramelization brings out natural sugars and creates a delightful contrast with the creamy broth. Skipping this step may leave your soup tasting flat and less exciting. Make sure to take the time to properly char your corn for a really authentic taste.

Overlooking Seasoning

Proper seasoning is vital for a flavorful Mexican Street Corn Soup. Many people forget to adjust their spices after blending the soup, which can lead to bland results. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust with salt, pepper, lime juice, or even chili powder as needed. Remember that flavors often develop as they cook, so make adjustments gradually to avoid overpowering your dish. A well-seasoned soup should have layers of flavor that balance sweetness from the corn with acidity from lime juice and heat from spices.

Not Balancing Creaminess

While creaminess is essential in Mexican Street Corn Soup, overdoing it can make the dish too heavy. Striking a balance between creaminess and freshness is key. Consider using half-and-half or sour cream instead of heavy cream to maintain richness without overwhelming the palate. You can also add vegetable broth for a lighter base while still keeping that creamy texture intact. This approach allows you to enjoy all the comforting elements of traditional recipes without feeling weighed down after eating.

FAQs

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for Mexican Street Corn Soup?

To make authentic Mexican Street Corn Soup, you will need fresh corn on the cob, vegetable broth or chicken broth, cream (or half-and-half), lime juice, cilantro, cotija cheese, and spices like chili powder and cumin. Start by preparing the corn; you’ll want to char it first for added flavor. Gather all these ingredients before you begin cooking; having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Can I make Mexican Street Corn Soup vegan?

Absolutely! To create a vegan version of Mexican Street Corn Soup, substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives. Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for that rich texture without dairy. For cheese, opt for nutritional yeast or any vegan cheese available in stores. Ensure that your vegetable broth is free from animal products as well. With these substitutions, you can enjoy a deliciously creamy and satisfying vegan soup.

How long does Mexican Street Corn Soup last in the fridge?

Mexican Street Corn Soup generally lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat until heated through; avoid boiling as this may alter its creamy consistency. If you’re planning on storing leftovers, consider keeping garnishes like cheese and cilantro separate until serving time to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze Mexican Street Corn Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Mexican Street Corn Soup! However, keep in mind that freezing may change its texture slightly due to separation of cream components upon thawing. To freeze successfully, let your soup cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on low heat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering Mexican Street Corn Soup involves attention to detail—from selecting fresh ingredients to balancing flavors perfectly. Avoid common pitfalls such as using canned corn or skipping essential steps like charring for maximum flavor impact. Proper seasoning is key; always taste before serving! By following these suggestions and tips outlined above, you’ll create an exceptional dish that captures all the delightful elements of this beloved street food classic while accommodating various dietary needs like veganism if desired. Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting treat!

 

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Mexican Street Corn Soup


  • Author: Cecilia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Mexican Street Corn Soup is a vibrant and comforting dish inspired by the beloved street food, elote. This creamy soup combines sweet corn kernels with aromatic spices, creating a delightful explosion of flavors in every spoonful. The richness of coconut milk balances the warmth from roasted poblano peppers and the earthiness of cumin, making it an ideal meal for any occasion—be it a weeknight dinner or festive gathering. With minimal prep time, you can whip up a hearty bowl in just under 30 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs and cheese for an added touch, and enjoy a nutritious dish that will impress family and friends alike.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh sweet corn (frozen or fresh)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 poblano pepper, diced
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients by chopping the onion and poblano pepper, and mincing the garlic.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
  3. Add diced poblano pepper; sauté for an additional 5 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in sweet corn and cumin; cook for another 2 minutes.
  5. Pour in coconut milk; simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes.
  6. For a creamier texture, blend the soup using an immersion blender or a regular blender in batches.
  7. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro or cheese.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Opt for fresh corn when available for enhanced sweetness and crunch. Adjust spice levels by modifying the amount of poblano pepper or adding jalapeño for more heat. Experiment with toppings such as crumbled feta cheese or avocado slices to elevate your dish.

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Cecilia

Pro Chef & Blogger

Welcome to my culinary corner, where passion meets the plate! I’m a chef with a love for creating delicious and inspiring dishes. Here, I’ll share my best recipes, tips, and tricks to help you bring a taste of magic into your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find something to ignite your passion for cooking. Join me on this flavorful journey and let’s make every meal memorable. Happy cooking.

Cecilia