Mexican Street Corn Soup

This Mexican Street Corn Soup is a delightful twist on the traditional elote, capturing all of its bold and zesty flavors in a warm, comforting bowl. Perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or simply when you crave something cozy, this soup brings the spirit of street food right to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: This soup features a delicious blend of spices and ingredients that create a rich and vibrant taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, it’s simple enough for cooks of all levels.
• Comforting and Hearty: Filled with chicken and corn, it’s satisfying enough to be a main dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side or main course, perfect for any occasion.
• Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and holding all the ingredients comfortably.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot.

Ingredients

To make this flavorful Mexican Street Corn Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 1 tbsp. olive oil
• 1 small red onion
• 1 medium jalapeno
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Soup

• 2 (12 oz.) skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• 1 (12 oz.) package fire-roasted frozen corn (or fresh corn or other frozen corn)
• 1 (4 oz.) can diced green chiles
• 1 tbsp. Tajin seasoning
• 2 tsps. ground cumin
• 2 tsps. chile powder
• 1/2 tsp table salt
• 1/4 tsp finely ground black pepper

For Creaminess

• 4 cups (32 oz.) chicken stock (or low-sodium chicken broth)
• 2 cups sour cream (full-fat) (or Greek yogurt (full fat))
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For Finishing Touches

• juice of one lime
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
• lime wedges and chopped cilantro for garnish

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the onion and jalapeño, cooking until the onions soften, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Corn

Add the chicken, fire-roasted corn, and green chiles to the pot. Season with Tajín, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

Pour in the chicken stock and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and let the soup cook for 25 minutes.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces before returning it to the pot.

Step 5: Stir in Creaminess

Stir in sour cream (or Greek yogurt), Monterey Jack cheese, lime juice, and cilantro. Simmer on low for another 3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot topped with crumbled queso fresco, lime wedges, and chopped cilantro. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Mexican Street Corn Soup!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Soup

Mexican Street Corn Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Lime Wedges

• Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor that complements the soup’s richness.

Topped with Crumbled Cheese

• Garnish each bowl with crumbled queso fresco. This adds a creamy texture and enhances the authentic street corn taste.

Accompanied by Fresh Cilantro

• Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top before serving. It brightens the soup and adds freshness to every bite.

Paired with Tortilla Chips

• Offer crispy tortilla chips for dipping. They provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup and are perfect for scooping.

With Avocado Slices

• Add slices of ripe avocado as a garnish. Their creaminess balances the zesty flavors of the soup and adds healthy fats.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Soup

To ensure your Mexican Street Corn Soup reaches its full potential, consider these tips for enhancing flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh corn when in season for a sweeter flavor compared to frozen options.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of jalapeño and chili powder based on your spice preference.
• Experiment with Broths: Try using homemade chicken stock for richer flavor or vegetable broth for a lighter version.
• Incorporate Additional Veggies: Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
• Blend for Creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, blend half of the soup before adding back the shredded chicken.
• Serve Hot: Enjoy this soup hot to fully appreciate its warmth and comforting flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Soup

Pairing sides with your Mexican Street Corn Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement its bold flavors.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomato sauce and spices makes a satisfying companion.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole provides a rich contrast to the zesty soup, perfect for spreading on tortillas.
3. Chili Lime Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies seasoned with chili powder offer both health benefits and delicious flavors.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are great for soaking up the soup while adding a comforting touch.
5. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing black bean salad with lime dressing adds protein and crunch alongside the soup.
6. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Lightly spiced grilled shrimp skewers bring an elegant touch to your meal while enhancing its Southwestern flair.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa, beans, and spices work well as hearty yet healthy sides.
8. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a crunchy side that pairs wonderfully with the creamy soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can take your Mexican Street Corn Soup from good to great! Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your soup properly can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasonings as you go.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Remove it after 25 minutes, shred it, and return it to maintain moisture.
• Using low-quality corn: Cheap corn can lack flavor. Opt for fire-roasted frozen corn or fresh corn for a more robust taste.
• Ignoring the garnishes: Skipping toppings like queso fresco or cilantro diminishes the dish’s authenticity. Always add garnishes for that final touch of flavor.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Rushing the cooking process can prevent flavors from melding. Give your soup enough time to simmer for a rich taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe containers, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring often until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mexican Street Corn Soup.

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh corn adds great texture and flavor! Just make sure to cook it well before adding it to the soup.

Is this soup spicy?

The spice level depends on how much jalapeño you use. You can adjust the amount or remove the seeds if you prefer less heat.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Mexican Street Corn Soup, replace chicken with additional vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen when allowed to sit, so feel free to make it a day ahead and reheat before serving.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option while keeping that creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Soup is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize! Feel free to add extra veggies or adjust spices according to your taste. Try making it today and enjoy a comforting bowl filled with all the vibrant flavors of elote!