Mexican Street Corn Soup

This Mexican Street Corn Soup is a delightful comfort dish that encapsulates the vibrant flavors of elote, making it perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with friends. With its creamy texture and zesty finish, this soup will transport you to bustling street corners in Mexico. Ideal as a main course or a side dish, it combines easy preparation with bold taste, ensuring everyone will love it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of Tajin seasoning and lime juice creates an exciting flavor profile that dances on your palate.
• Comforting Texture: Creamy sour cream and cheese make each spoonful rich and satisfying, perfect for chilly days.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this soup can be on your table in under an hour.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a hearty main course or a delightful side dish to complement any meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with chicken, corn, and fresh herbs, this soup not only tastes great but also provides a wholesome meal.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes cooking much easier. Here are the essentials you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: This allows for even heat distribution while cooking the ingredients together, essential for developing flavors in your soup.
• Chef’s knife: A good quality knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving the soup without spills, helping you dish out generous portions easily.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful Mexican Street Corn Soup:

For the Soup Base

• 1 tbsp. olive oil
• 1 small red onion
• 1 medium jalapeno
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 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
• 4 cups (32 oz.) chicken stock (or low-sodium chicken broth)

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 2 cups sour cream (full-fat) (or Greek yogurt (full fat))
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Juice of one lime

For Garnish

• 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 the 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: Simmer 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 about 25 minutes.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot once cooked through. Shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks before returning it to the pot.

Step 5: Mix in Creaminess

Stir in the sour cream, Monterey Jack cheese, lime juice, and cilantro into the soup. Let it simmer on low for another 3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot topped with crumbled queso fresco, lime wedges, and additional chopped cilantro for garnish.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Mexican Street Corn Soup!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Soup

Serving Mexican Street Corn Soup is all about enhancing its vibrant flavors. This hearty dish can be enjoyed in various ways to please any palate.

Top It Off with Fresh Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a refreshing herbal note that brightens up the soup.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over each bowl for a zesty kick.
• Crumbled Queso Fresco: Provides a creamy texture and adds an authentic touch.

Pair with Crunchy Tortilla Chips

• Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside for dipping, adding a delightful crunch that complements the smooth soup.

Accompany with a Simple Salad

• Garden Salad: A light mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed with lime vinaigrette pairs well to balance the soup’s richness.

Enjoy with Cornbread

• Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread on the side enhances the corn theme and offers a comforting contrast.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Soup

Perfecting your Mexican Street Corn Soup can elevate this already amazing dish. Follow these tips for optimal results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to frozen options.
• Adjust Spice Level: Taste the soup as you cook and adjust jalapeño or spices to your preferred heat level.
• Simmer Properly: Allow the soup to simmer fully, which helps meld all flavors together beautifully.
• Shred Chicken Wisely: Shredding the chicken into bite-sized pieces ensures even distribution throughout the soup.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on garnishes; they add texture and flavor that enhance every spoonful.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Soup

Pairing side dishes with Mexican Street Corn Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes a perfect companion.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection add color and nutrition.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip brings richness, contrasting nicely with the soup’s flavors.
4. Black Bean Salad: A hearty salad featuring black beans, corn, and lime dressing adds protein.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide a filling side that complements the soup.
6. Crispy Tacos: Serve mini tacos filled with your choice of meat or vegetables for added crunch.
7. Zucchini Fritters: Lightly fried fritters offer a crispy option that pairs well with the creamy soup.
8. Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made from corn, tomatoes, and avocado enhances the corn theme in your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican Street Corn Soup can be an enjoyable experience, but there are some common mistakes you should watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough spices can lead to bland soup. Use the recommended amounts of Tajín, cumin, and chili powder for full flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Leaving the chicken in the pot too long can make it tough. Cook until just done, then shred and return it to the soup.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor broth can affect the soup’s overall taste. Opt for high-quality chicken stock or low-sodium options for better flavor.
• Ignoring texture: If you like a thicker soup, blend a portion before serving. This adds creaminess without changing the flavor profile.
• Not garnishing: Serving without toppings like queso fresco or cilantro removes layers of flavor. Don’t skip these final touches!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The soup will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the soup to an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot throughout, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Street Corn Soup?

Mexican Street Corn Soup is a flavorful dish inspired by elote, featuring sweet corn, spices, and creamy ingredients that deliver a comforting experience.

How can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Soup?

You can customize this soup by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Spice it up with extra jalapeños or adjust the cheese according to your taste preferences.

Can I make Mexican Street Corn Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with black beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. You can also add more corn for sweetness.

How do I store leftovers of Mexican Street Corn Soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Alternatively, freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Soup is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. You can adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Enjoy this comforting bowl of flavors that capture the essence of street food right at home!