Mexican Street Corn Soup

This Mexican Street Corn Soup is a delightful way to experience the vibrant flavors of street corn in a warm, comforting bowl. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in, this soup combines sweet corn, tender chicken, and zesty spices. Each spoonful is a burst of flavor that brings joy to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this soup in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of Tajin seasoning, lime juice, and fresh cilantro creates an irresistible taste.
• Comfort Food: Creamy and hearty, it’s the perfect dish to warm you up on chilly days.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish; it pairs well with various meals.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from corn, it’s both satisfying and healthy.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking more enjoyable. Below are essential kitchen tools you’ll need for making this Mexican Street Corn Soup.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly and holding larger quantities.
• Sharp knife: Ensures you can easily chop vegetables and meat with precision.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for perfecting flavors.

Ingredients

This Mexican Street Corn Soup is inspired by elote, bringing all those bold, zesty flavors into a cozy, comforting bowl. It’s like eating favorite street food with a spoon.

Produce

• 1 small red onion
• 1 medium jalapeno
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• juice of one lime
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Protein

• 2 (12 oz.) skinless, boneless chicken breasts

Frozen Goods

• 1 (12 oz.) package fire-roasted frozen corn (or fresh corn or other frozen corn)

Canned Goods

• 1 (4 oz.) can diced green chiles

Spices & Seasonings

• 1 tbsp. Tajin seasoning
• 2 tsps. ground cumin
• 2 tsps. chile powder
• 1/2 tsp table salt
• 1/4 tsp finely ground black pepper

Dairy

• 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

Toppings

• 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
• lime wedges and chopped cilantro for garnish

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

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: Combine Ingredients

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 25 minutes.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

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

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Stir in the sour cream, Monterey Jack cheese, lime juice, and cilantro. Simmer on low for another 3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the soup topped with queso fresco crumbles, lime wedges, and chopped cilantro. Enjoy your delicious Mexican Street Corn Soup!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Soup

Serving Mexican Street Corn Soup is all about enhancing its robust flavors while providing a comforting experience. Here are some delightful ways to serve this zesty soup that will impress your family and friends.

With Fresh Toppings

• Lime Wedges: Squeeze a fresh lime wedge over the soup for a burst of citrus flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
• Chopped Cilantro: Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for a refreshing herbal note that brightens each spoonful.
• Crumbled Queso Fresco: This creamy cheese adds a rich texture and balances the heat from the jalapeño.

Pairing with Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy Tortilla Chips: Serve your soup with crispy tortilla chips for that delightful crunch, perfect for dipping or sprinkling on top.
• Spicy Nacho Chips: For an extra kick, offer spicy nacho chips that add another layer of flavor to your meal.

Accompanying with Bread

• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery garlic breadsticks make a great addition, perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
• Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are a fantastic side that complements the soup’s savory flavors.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Soup

Perfecting your Mexican Street Corn Soup can elevate it from good to exceptional. Follow these tips to enhance your cooking experience.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh corn and herbs can significantly improve the soup’s flavor profile. Freshness makes a noticeable difference.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, consider removing the seeds from the jalapeño before adding it to the pot.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the Tajín and cumin amounts based on your taste preferences to create a personalized flavor.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen the flavors even more. Just be mindful not to overcook any added ingredients.
• Top with Avocado: Adding slices of avocado just before serving can create a creamy contrast that enhances each bite.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It tastes even better the next day!

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Soup

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

1. Guacamole: Creamy and flavorful, guacamole is perfect for scooping up with tortilla chips alongside your soup.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices can enhance the meal and provide a hearty accompaniment to the soup.
3. Elote Salad: A fresh salad inspired by traditional elote adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the rich soup.
4. Black Bean Salad: A simple black bean salad offers protein and fiber while adding vibrant colors to your meal presentation.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth and nutrition, complementing the bold flavors of the soup beautifully.
6. Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo adds zing and freshness; serve it on top or as a side dip to enjoy with chips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Soup, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F and remove it promptly.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Neglecting spices can lead to bland soup. Make sure to use Tajín, cumin, and chili powder for that authentic flavor.
• Not Using Fire-Roasted Corn: Regular corn lacks the smoky flavor. Opt for fire-roasted corn or grill fresh corn for added depth.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale ingredients can ruin your dish. Always check your vegetables and herbs for freshness before cooking.
• Rushing the Simmering Process: Skipping the simmer can affect flavors. Allow the soup to simmer adequately to develop a rich taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Street Corn Soup?

Mexican Street Corn Soup is a creamy, flavorful dish inspired by elote, featuring corn, spices, and toppings like cheese and lime.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with beans or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a delicious vegetarian version.

How spicy is Mexican Street Corn Soup?

The spice level depends on how much jalapeño you add. For less heat, remove the seeds or reduce the amount used.

Can I customize toppings for my soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or even hot sauce for extra flavor according to your taste preferences.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use coconut yogurt instead of sour cream and omit cheese or choose dairy-free alternatives available in stores.

Conclusion

This Mexican Street Corn Soup offers a delightful blend of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients and toppings according to your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a cozy meal that captures the essence of street food!