Mexican Street Corn Soup

This Mexican Street Corn Soup captures the essence of elote, transforming it into a delicious and hearty dish. Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings, this soup is a symphony of flavors with fire-roasted corn, tender chicken, and a blend of spices. It’s creamy and satisfying, making it an ideal meal at any time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in under an hour, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
• Flavor Packed: With ingredients like Tajín seasoning and fire-roasted corn, every spoonful bursts with authentic Mexican flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with bread for a complete meal that suits various occasions.
• Crowd Pleaser: This creamy soup is sure to impress family and friends at gatherings or potlucks.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more jalapeño or serve it with your favorite toppings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having everything ready will make the preparation of your Mexican Street Corn Soup effortless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly and allowing all flavors to meld beautifully.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when preparing vegetables, speeding up your prep time.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your soup.

Ingredients

To make this flavorful Mexican Street Corn Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 1 medium jalapeño, seeded and diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (12 oz.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 (12 oz.) package fire-roasted frozen corn (or fresh corn)
• 1 (4 oz.) can diced green chiles
• 1 tbsp Tajín seasoning
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp table salt
• ¼ tsp finely ground black pepper
• 4 cups (32 oz.) chicken stock or low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups sour cream (full-fat) or Greek yogurt (full-fat)
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Juice of one lime
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• ½ cup crumbled queso fresco

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

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

Step 2: Add Chicken and Seasonings

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

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 25 minutes. This allows the chicken to fully cook while melding all flavors together.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken breasts from the pot. Use two forks to shred them into bite-sized pieces before returning them to the pot.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Stir in sour cream, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Let the soup simmer on low heat for another 3 minutes until well combined and creamy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with crumbled queso fresco for added texture and flavor before enjoying!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Soup

Serving Mexican Street Corn Soup is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making it a complete meal. Here are some ideas to make your dining experience even better.

Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens up the soup and adds a zesty kick.
• Crumbled Queso Fresco: Sprinkle on top for a creamy texture and mild flavor contrast.

Accompaniment Suggestions

• Corn Tortillas: Serve warm, these can be used to scoop up the soup.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips add texture and can be enjoyed on the side or as a topping.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado enhances the richness of the soup.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Soup

Perfecting your Mexican Street Corn Soup can elevate it from good to great. Here are some tips to consider.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn off the cob will provide the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more jalapeño or chili powder according to your preference.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
• Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheese varieties like Cotija or Pepper Jack for unique flavors.

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 excellent choices.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the soup’s flavors.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad with black beans, corn, red onion, and lime dressing adds nutrition and color.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled until charred provide a smoky contrast to the creamy soup.
4. Chips & Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with spicy salsa create a delightful appetizer before diving into the soup.
5. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole offers an indulgent dip that pairs perfectly with each spoonful of soup.
6. Fried Plantains: Sweet, caramelized plantains add an unexpected sweetness that balances the savory soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican Street Corn Soup is easy, but a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfect every time.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Always monitor cooking time. Remove the chicken as soon as it’s cooked through to avoid dryness.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season adequately! Add spices gradually and taste as you go to achieve the right flavor balance.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen corn and chicken. Good ingredients make a significant difference in taste.
• Not Blending Properly: If you prefer a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before adding it back. This enhances the creaminess without losing texture.
• Ignoring Garnishes: Don’t skip garnishes like cilantro and queso fresco. They add fresh flavors and elevate your soup’s presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Mexican Street Corn Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring every minute until hot, usually around 3-5 minutes.
• Stovetop: Place soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Mexican Street Corn Soup that might help you on your culinary journey.

What can I substitute for chicken in Mexican Street Corn Soup?

You can use turkey or beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with vegetable broth and omit any meat. You can add more beans or vegetables for protein and texture.

How do I make my Mexican Street Corn Soup spicier?

To increase spiciness, add more diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper while cooking. Taste as you go!

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh corn will give your soup a delightful sweetness. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly.

How do I store leftovers of Mexican Street Corn Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Soup captures all the deliciousness of elote in a comforting bowl. It’s perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends. Feel free to customize by adding beans, adjusting the spice level, or experimenting with toppings. Enjoy making this versatile dish!