Mexican Street Corn Soup Recipe

Introduction

Mexican Street Corn Soup, also known as “Sopa de Elote,” is a creamy, flavorful, and comforting soup inspired by the beloved Mexican street food, Elote. The soup captures the essence of grilled corn slathered in creamy mayonnaise, spicy chili powder, and tangy lime, but in a warm, soothing bowl. With its perfect blend of sweet corn, smoky spices, and a touch of creaminess, Mexican Street Corn Soup is a perfect dish for those who crave bold, vibrant flavors.

This dish brings the street food experience to a whole new level by transforming the familiar flavors of Elote into a deliciously rich soup. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or serve up something special at a gathering, this soup offers an easy and delightful way to enjoy the taste of Mexican street corn in a bowl. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through making this savory soup that’s sure to be a hit at your next meal.

Why You’ll Love Mexican Street Corn Soup

• Creamy and Flavorful: The soup is creamy without being overly rich, thanks to the perfect balance of corn, cream, and seasonings. It brings a depth of flavor that’s both satisfying and comforting.
• Sweet and Smoky: With the sweetness of fresh corn combined with the smokiness of chili powder and the tang of lime, this soup offers an irresistible combination of flavors.
• Easy to Make: Despite its rich and complex flavors, this soup is surprisingly easy to prepare and doesn’t require any advanced cooking techniques. A few simple steps will have you enjoying a delicious soup in no time.
• Customizable: This soup can be adapted to your taste by adjusting the spice level or adding extras like crumbled bacon, cilantro, or even grilled chicken for extra protein.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, a BBQ, or as part of a Mexican-themed meal, Mexican Street Corn Soup is a versatile and crowd-pleasing option that will wow your guests.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 300-350 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 18-20g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 5-7g
• Fiber: 4-6g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Mexican Street Corn Soup:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4-5 ears of corn) or frozen corn
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lime, juiced
• Optional: 1 cup cotija cheese or feta cheese, crumbled
• Optional: Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Optional: Crumbled bacon for garnish
• Optional: Tortilla chips for serving

Special Equipment

While you don’t need specialized equipment to make this soup, using the right tools will make the process more efficient:

1. Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A large, heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for making this soup. It allows enough space to sauté vegetables and simmer the broth, all while ensuring even heat distribution.
2. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for dicing the onions and mincing the garlic. It will also help you to cut the kernels off the cob if using fresh corn.
3. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A wooden spoon or spatula is perfect for stirring the soup, ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to making sure the spices and liquids are perfectly balanced in the soup.
5. Blender or Immersion Blender: To create a smooth, creamy texture, a blender or immersion blender is necessary. You can blend the soup completely or leave it slightly chunky, depending on your preference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Corn

Start by preparing your corn. If using fresh corn, husk the ears and remove the silk. Use a sharp knife to carefully slice off the kernels, discarding the cob. You’ll need about 6 cups of corn kernels, which is typically the yield from 4-5 ears of corn. If you’re using frozen corn, measure out 6 cups.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.

This step helps build a flavor base for the soup, infusing the butter with aromatic flavors before adding the corn and liquid.

3. Add the Corn and Broth

Next, add the prepared corn kernels to the pot, stirring them into the onions and garlic. Let them cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the corn to lightly brown and develop some flavor. Then, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This simmering process helps soften the corn and meld the flavors together.

4. Blend the Soup (Optional)

Once the soup has simmered, you have the option to blend it for a smoother texture. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Puree until smooth, then return the soup to the pot.

If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend just half of the soup or skip this step entirely. Some people love the texture of whole corn kernels mixed with the creamy base.

5. Add Cream and Seasonings

Once the soup is blended to your liking, stir in the heavy cream, mayonnaise, and sour cream. These ingredients create the rich, creamy texture that makes this soup so indulgent. Add the smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder, stirring to combine. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.

The addition of mayonnaise gives the soup a creamy, tangy edge reminiscent of the street food’s signature flavor. The spices and creaminess come together to create a soup that’s both comforting and full of personality.

6. Finish with Lime Juice and Cheese

Once the soup is fully combined, add the juice of one lime to brighten the flavors. Stir in the lime juice and let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to come together.

If you’re using crumbled cotija or feta cheese, add it to the soup at this stage, stirring gently to incorporate. The cheese will add a salty, tangy element that complements the sweetness of the corn and the spice of the chili powder.

7. Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with your favorite toppings. Fresh cilantro, crumbled bacon, and extra cotija cheese are all excellent choices. You can also add a few tortilla chips on the side or crumbled on top for added crunch.

For a more intense flavor, serve with additional lime wedges so guests can squeeze more lime juice into the soup before eating.

Tips for Perfect Mexican Street Corn Soup

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you like your soup spicier, add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less chili powder and omit the cayenne.
• Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn, when in season, provides a naturally sweet and tender texture that’s hard to beat. However, if fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn works just fine and still delivers great flavor.
• Blend for Creaminess: For a super-smooth soup, blend it completely. If you prefer a little more texture, blend only half of the soup or leave it as is for a chunkier, heartier version.
• Make It Ahead: Mexican Street Corn Soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup may thicken upon standing, so you may want to add a little extra broth or cream when reheating.
• Make It Vegan: To make this soup vegan, swap out the heavy cream and mayonnaise for coconut milk or a plant-based cream, and use a dairy-free sour cream substitute. You can also skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Variations of Mexican Street Corn Soup

• Spicy Mexican Street Corn Soup: Add extra heat with a sliced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to increase the spice level and give it a more authentic street food vibe.
• Grilled Mexican Street Corn Soup: For an added smoky flavor, grill the corn before adding it to the soup. This will bring a charred flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
• Chicken Mexican Street Corn Soup: To make this soup more substantial, add shredded cooked chicken to the soup. This is especially great for using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken.
• Crispy Mexican Street Corn Soup: For a crunchy twist, top the soup with crispy tortilla strips or serve it with some fried jalapeño slices.

Storage and Shelf Life

This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even better the next day. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra broth or cream if the soup thickens too much.

Mexican Street Corn Soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Mexican Street Corn Soup

• Grilled Shrimp Tacos: Light and flavorful, grilled shrimp tacos are a great complement to the creamy, hearty soup.
• Mexican Rice: A side of fluffy Mexican rice pairs perfectly with the soup, soaking up the rich flavors while adding texture to the meal.
• Queso Fundido: Melted cheese with chorizo, served with warm tortillas, makes for a delicious and indulgent side dish to go with the soup.
• Avocado Salad: A fresh avocado salad with a zesty lime dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.

Wine Pairing

To complement the smoky, spicy flavors of Mexican Street Corn Soup, pair it with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp beer like a Mexican lager or pale ale. The acidity and lightness of these beverages balance the creaminess of the soup beautifully.

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Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Soup brings the bold, vibrant flavors of Mexican street food right into your kitchen in a comforting, creamy soup form. With its rich corn base, smoky chili powder, tangy lime, and creamy texture, this soup is sure to impress anyone who loves Mexican cuisine. Easy to make, full of flavor, and completely customizable, Mexican Street Corn Soup is a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether served as a main dish, appetizer, or as part of a Mexican feast, this soup will leave you satisfied and craving more.