Mexican Street Corn Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms both body and soul, then you’ve come to the right place. This Mexican Street Corn Soup is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings the essence of elote into your kitchen. Picture yourself on a chilly evening, wrapped in your favorite blanket, savoring each spoonful of this creamy, spiced soup. It’s perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen.

What makes this dish so special? Well, it combines sweet corn, vibrant spices, and wholesome ingredients into a dish that everyone will love. Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe is easy to follow, ensuring you’ll shine like a pro!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a hearty meal in under 45 minutes.
• Family-Friendly: This soup is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its creamy texture and delightful flavor.
• Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance! This soup tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.
• Versatile Garnishes: Customize your bowl with toppings like lime wedges and cilantro for an extra pop of freshness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that make this Mexican Street Corn Soup truly special. You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store.

• 1 tbsp. olive oil
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• 1 medium jalapeño, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (12 oz.) skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• 1 (12 oz.) package fire-roasted frozen corn
• 1 (4 oz.) can diced green chiles
• 1 tbsp. Tajín seasoning
• 2 tsps. ground cumin
• 2 tsps. chile powder
• 1/2 tsp table salt
• 1/4 tsp finely ground black pepper
• 4 cups (32 oz.) chicken stock
• 2 cups sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Juice of one lime
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
• Lime wedges and chopped cilantro for garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or chickpeas for a meat-free option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more jalapeños or even some diced serrano peppers.
• Creamy twist: For an extra creamy texture, blend part of the soup before adding back the chicken.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped red onion and jalapeño, sautéing them until softened—about 3–4 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup! Afterward, throw in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Combine Main Ingredients

Stir in the chicken breasts, fire-roasted corn, diced green chiles, Tajín seasoning, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. This is where all those delicious flavors start coming together!

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Pour in the chicken stock and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 25 minutes. This allows all those wonderful ingredients to mingle perfectly.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Carefully remove the chicken from the pot once cooked through. Shred it using two forks before returning it back into the pot. Shredding ensures every bite has tender chicken goodness!

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Mix in sour cream (or Greek yogurt), shredded cheese, lime juice, and chopped cilantro into your soup. Let it simmer on low until everything is heated through—this adds rich creaminess and bright flavor!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your Mexican Street Corn Soup topped with crumbled queso fresco along with lime wedges and extra cilantro for garnish. Each bowl is sure to bring smiles around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Mexican Street Corn Soup

Making the perfect Mexican Street Corn Soup is easier than you think! Here are some tips to help you elevate your dish:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup. Opt for fresh corn when in season, or high-quality frozen corn if not.

• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder soup, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño before cooking. This simple step allows you to control the heat without sacrificing flavor.

• Experiment with cheeses: While Monterey Jack cheese adds creaminess, you can also try using pepper jack for an extra kick or a dairy-free cheese option to accommodate dietary preferences.

• Blend for creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, consider blending half of the soup before adding the shredded chicken back in. This will create a velvety base that enhances the overall mouthfeel.

• Make it vegan-friendly: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or black beans and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. This way, everyone can enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Soup

Serving up your Mexican Street Corn Soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this delightful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped scallions: These add a fresh crunch and mild onion flavor that complements the soup perfectly.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado provides a rich texture and balances out the spices, making each bite indulgent.
• Crushed tortilla chips: A sprinkle of crunchy tortilla chips on top adds texture and a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes, spices, and herbs makes for a great accompaniment that soaks up all that delicious broth.
• Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, and lime juice offers a vibrant side full of protein and fiber.
• Grilled Veggies: Charred vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus on the grill bring out their natural sweetness and add depth to your meal.
• Cornbread Muffins: Soft and buttery cornbread muffins are perfect for dipping into your soup while enhancing that sweet corn flavor.

Enjoy your cozy evenings with this heartwarming Mexican Street Corn Soup – it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mexican Street Corn Soup is perfect for meal prep! It stores beautifully, making it a great option for busy weeknights or to have on hand for unexpected guests. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If possible, keep toppings separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy reference!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about our Mexican Street Corn Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I make Mexican Street Corn Soup without chicken?

Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version.

What makes this the best Mexican Street Corn Soup?

This recipe combines vibrant spices, sweet corn, and creamy textures that capture the essence of traditional elote. It’s comforting, easy to prepare, and sure to impress your family and friends!

How do I store leftover Mexican Street Corn Soup?

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Follow our storage tips above for optimal freshness!

Can I freeze Mexican Street Corn Soup?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Mexican Street Corn Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings everyone together. Whether you’re cooking for family or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup is sure to delight. Give it a try and savor every spoonful—happy cooking!