Mexican Street Corn Soup, also known as "elote soup," is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings the vibrant taste of traditional Mexican street corn right to your table. With its creamy texture and bold spices, this soup is perfect for cozy nights or any occasion when you crave something warm and comforting. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines sweet corn, aromatic spices, and a touch of creaminess, making each spoonful a true indulgence.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 350
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
Why Make This Mexican Street Corn Soup
Making Mexican Street Corn Soup is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic street food experience in a new form. This soup captures the essence of elote (Mexican street corn) with a creamy base and zesty flavors. It’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, allowing you to serve a satisfying meal without an all-day effort. Furthermore, you can customize it to suit your taste by adjusting spices or adding extra toppings. The combination of corn’s sweetness and the warmth of chili powder and cumin creates a comforting dish that everyone will love.
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Soup
Creating this scrumptious soup is a breeze. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty pot of soup ready to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Directions:
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Step 1: Sautéing the Aromatics
In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
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Step 2: Mixing in the Corn
Add the corn, vegetable broth, chili powder, and cumin to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Step 3: Cooking the Soup
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Step 4: Finishing the Soup
Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the mixture in batches to a blender. Once smooth, stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a bright, refreshing touch!
How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Soup
This soup is perfect as a starter or a main dish. Pair it with warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with avocado slices or crumbled feta for extra creaminess and flavor. It’s an excellent option for casual dinner parties or family gatherings.
How to Store Mexican Street Corn Soup
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If you’d like to freeze the soup, keep it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Mexican Street Corn Soup
- For a smoky flavor, consider adding diced smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the mix.
- If you like a bit of heat, diced jalapeños can spice things up!
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative.
Delicious Variations
- Spicy Black Bean Version: Add a can of black beans at the same time as the corn for added protein and flavor.
- Coconut Curry Twist: Substitute the vegetable broth with coconut milk and add curry powder for a unique flavor profile that’s tropical and tasty.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in some shredded cheese, like Monterey Jack or queso fresco, before serving for an even creamier soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use frozen or canned corn instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen or canned corn works well and saves time. Just make sure to drain and rinse canned corn before using. -
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option or coconut cream for a dairy-free version. -
Is there a way to make this soup vegan?
Yes, simply replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a nut milk and use vegetable broth. -
How can I adjust the spice level?
Start with less chili powder and cumin, then gradually add to your taste. For more heat, consider adding more spices or fresh hot peppers. -
Can I make the soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup stores well and often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop.
Conclusion
Mexican Street Corn Soup is a flavorful and warming dish that is sure to impress anyone at your table. Its creamy texture and spicy notes evoke the vibrant flavors of Mexico, making it a must-try recipe for any occasion. With easy preparation and delightful variations, this soup is a meal you’ll want to return to again and again. So grab your ingredients, and let’s bring a taste of the street to your kitchen! Enjoy every comforting bowl!
