Mexican Street Corn Soup

Mexican Street Corn Soup is a rich and delicious dish. It draws inspiration from Elote, a favorite Mexican street food. This soup has roasted corn, creamy cheese, and a touch of spice. It’s the perfect comfort food for any season. Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter meal or a fresh summer dish, this soup is a must-try.

Mexican Street Corn Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Creamy: Cheese, sour cream, and milk create an ultra-creamy soup.

  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.

  • Full of Flavor: Loaded with smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors.

  • Customizable: Can be made vegetarian, spicy, or even keto-friendly!

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 cups corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin

  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

  • 1 cup milk or heavy cream

  • 1/2 cup sour cream

  • 1 cup Cotija cheese (or feta)

  • 1 lime, juiced

  • Salt & pepper to taste

Garnishes:

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped

  • Crumbled Cotija cheese

  • Lime wedges

  • Tajín seasoning (optional)

  • Jalapeño slices (optional)

Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-step Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Corn

  • If you’re using fresh corn, char the kernels in a dry skillet. Cook them over medium heat for around 5 minutes until they turn slightly brown.

  • If using canned or frozen corn, drain and pat dry before roasting.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  • Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.

  • Add diced onions and cook until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).

  • Stir in garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

  • Add the roasted corn and stir well.

  • Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.

  • Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes.

Step 4: Blend and Thicken

  • Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup (leave some chunks for texture).

  • Stir in the milk, sour cream, and half of the Cotija cheese.

  • Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 5: Season and Serve

  • Add lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste.

  • Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, Cotija cheese, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of Tajín.

Mexican Street Corn Soup

Tips for Making It Perfect

  • Char the Corn: This adds a smoky, street-style flavor.

  • Use High-Quality Cheese: Cotija gives the best authentic taste, but feta or Parmesan work too.

  • Don’t Over-Blend: A slightly chunky texture makes the soup more satisfying.

  • Adjust Thickness: Add more milk for a thinner soup or blend more for a creamier version.

You Can Try These Different Variations

Spicy Version

  • Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

  • Use spicy chili powder or cayenne pepper.

Vegan Version

  • Replace butter with olive oil.

  • Swap milk and sour cream for coconut milk and cashew cream.

  • Use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.

Protein-Packed Version

  • Add shredded chicken, cooked shrimp, or black beans.

Keto-Friendly Version

  • Use heavy cream instead of milk.

  • Skip the lime juice to reduce carbs.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280

  • Protein: 9g

  • Carbs: 35g

  • Fat: 14g

  • Fiber: 4g

  • Sugar: 7g

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Can I freeze Mexican Street Corn Soup?

Yes! Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stove.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with grilled chicken, tacos, quesadillas, or a fresh green salad.

Can I use frozen corn?

Absolutely! Just thaw and drain it before roasting.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Soup is a creamy, flavorful twist on the classic Elote that’s easy to make and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re craving something warm and comforting or looking for a dish to impress guests, this soup is a winner. Try different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy a bowl of street corn magic.