With the first whiff of this creamy Mexican Street Corn Soup, I’m transported straight to vibrant street markets where laughter, music, and the tantalizing scent of grilled corn swirl around you. It’s a simple yet dazzling dish that brings warmth and joy, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Beyond its comforting flavors, this recipe boasts quick prep time and a delightful blend of textures, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste. Trust me, once you try this soup, you'll crave the essence of Mexico right at your kitchen table! Are you ready to discover how easy it is to whip up this delicious bowl of happiness?
What makes this soup a must-try?
Rich, Creamy Goodness: This Mexican Street Corn Soup is a comforting blend of flavors, featuring fire-roasted corn and creamy cheese for that perfect indulgent touch.
Quick Preparation: With only a 45-minute total time, you can serve up a delicious, homemade meal without the fuss of complicated cooking.
Versatile Recipe: Whether it's a family dinner or a friendly gathering, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Add extra toppings like avocado or tortilla chips for a personal twist!
Healthful Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken and fresh veggies, it offers a delightful balance of nutrients, making it a guilt-free treat.
Vibrant Flavor: The spices elevate your taste buds, reminiscent of lively street markets and fun-filled memories. Pair it with a side of easy homemade tortillas for an authentic experience!
Mexican Street Corn Soup Ingredients
• Discover the essentials for a delightful bowl of comfort.
For the Soup Base
• Olive oil – a splash of richness to sauté the veggies.
• Diced red onion – adds a subtle sweetness while enhancing flavor depth.
• Jalapeño – brings a gentle heat; feel free to adjust for spice preference.
• Garlic – infuses the soup with an irresistible aroma.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – lean protein that makes this soup hearty.
• Fire-roasted corn – delivers a smoky sweetness, key to an authentic taste.
• Diced green chiles – add a pop of flavor and mild spiciness.
• Tajín seasoning – a perfect balance of lime and spice, amplifying the soup's zest.
• Cumin – adds a warm earthiness that rounds out the dish.
• Chili powder – introduces a slight kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Salt – brings out the flavors and ties the ingredients together.
• Black pepper – adds just the right amount of warmth.
For Creaminess and Garnish
• Chicken stock – the liquid gold that forms the soup's base, ensuring rich flavor.
• Sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt – for a luxurious creaminess that's totally irresistible.
• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese – melts beautifully, adding cheesy goodness to every spoonful.
• Lime juice – a squeeze of freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Chopped cilantro – vibrant herbs that enhance the soup's freshness.
• Crumbled queso fresco – adds a light, tangy contrast on top, making it extra special.
This fabulous Mexican Street Corn Soup is as much a delight to make as it is to enjoy!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 cup of diced red onion and 1 diced jalapeño to the pot, sautéing until they soften, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the base of your Mexican Street Corn Soup to come alive.
Step 2: Combine Chicken and Corn
Next, add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 4 cups of fire-roasted corn, and 1 cup of diced green chiles to the pot. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of Tajín seasoning, 2 teaspoons of cumin, 2 teaspoons of chili powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined, creating a flavorful mixture in your soup.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in 4 cups of chicken stock and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. This step is crucial for infusing flavor and ensuring your chicken is juicy for your Mexican Street Corn Soup.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the pot and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, mixing it into the soup and allowing it to absorb all those delicious flavors.
Step 5: Add Creaminess
Stir in ½ cup of sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt, 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and ¼ cup of chopped cilantro. Let the Mexican Street Corn Soup simmer on low heat for another 3 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld together while the soup becomes irresistibly creamy.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with crumbled queso fresco for a delightful texture contrast. For an extra pop of color and flavor, garnish with additional chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. Your vibrant Mexican Street Corn Soup is now ready to be enjoyed!
What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn Soup
This delightful soup is just the beginning of a flavorful feast that will warm your heart and nourish your soul.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips: The perfect vessel for scooping, these chips add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
- Avocado Toast: Slices of buttery avocado on toasted bread create a creamy bite that pairs wonderfully with the spice of the soup.
Adding a tangy twist, invigorating lime juice enhances both elements. Together, they celebrate the vibrant flavors of the recipe.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the soup while adding a wholesome touch to your meal.
- Grilled Street Corn: Keep the theme alive with this sweet and smoky side that berths comfort and nostalgia in every bite.
Serve with freshly squeezed lime to bring a zesty freshness that elevates the flavor experience.
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh condiment made with tomatoes, onions, and herbs brightens the soup and adds a delightful burst of flavor.
- Margaritas: A classic pairing! The citrusy notes of a refreshing margarita provide a perfect contrast to the hearty richness of the Mexican Street Corn Soup.
Make Ahead Options
These Mexican Street Corn Soup is perfect for busy weeknights and can be made ahead to save valuable time! To prepare in advance, you can chop the vegetables (onion, jalapeño, and garlic) and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can cook the soup base (steps 1-4) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just before serving, reheat the soup, stir in the creaminess with sour cream, cheese, and lime juice (steps 5-6), and enjoy a bowl that's just as delicious as freshly made! This way, you can savor the vibrant flavors of Mexican Street Corn Soup without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Mexican Street Corn Soup
Fridge: Store any leftover Mexican Street Corn Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it's completely cooled down before sealing.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that the texture may slightly change upon thawing.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Additional Tips: If the soup thickens in the fridge, add a splash of chicken stock or water while reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
Tips for the Best Mexican Street Corn Soup
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh corn kernels or high-quality fire-roasted corn for a sweeter, more vibrant flavor in your Mexican Street Corn Soup.
Tweak the Heat: Adjust the jalapeño based on your spice tolerance—remove the seeds for a milder soup if preferred.
Don’t Skip the Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer long enough for the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall richness of your dish.
Perfect Creaminess: Stir in the sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving to achieve that creamy texture without curdling in the pot.
Garnish Generously: Add plenty of queso fresco and cilantro on top for an appealing presentation and a burst of fresh flavor in every bite.
Mexican Street Corn Soup Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful soup to suit your family's preferences and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the creaminess with coconut milk and a dairy-free cheese option for a luscious twist.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas or a medley of sautéed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a hearty, meat-free option.
- Spicy Kick: Add an extra jalapeño or some diced habanero for those who crave a fiery flavor in every spoonful.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle peppers to deepen the smoky undertones in your soup for a robust experience.
- Chickpea Version: Swap out the chicken for 1 can of chickpeas, adding protein while making it vegetarian-friendly.
- Herb Boost: Infuse fresh herbs like oregano or thyme during cooking for an aromatic flavor that elevates the soup's essence.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in chopped spinach, kale, or diced tomatoes for added nutrition and color - a perfect way to sneak in greens!
- Toppings Galore: Experiment with toppings like crispy tortilla strips, a dollop of guacamole, or roasted pepitas for delightful crunch and contrast!
Let each bowl of this Mexican Street Corn Soup bloom with flavors uniquely tailored to your taste buds!
Mexican Street Corn Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best corn for this soup?
Absolutely! When selecting fire-roasted corn, look for bright yellow and sweet kernels; avoid any with dark spots or a mushy texture. If using fresh corn, aim for ears with plump kernels that are firm and juicy. You can roast the corn yourself for that smoky flavor by grilling or broiling until slightly charred.
How should I store my leftover Mexican Street Corn Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing. This helps maintain the flavors and prevents spoilage. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a bit of water or stock to adjust the consistency if needed.
Can I freeze Mexican Street Corn Soup?
Very! You can freeze this soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. To do this, let the soup cool down, then portion it out and remove as much air as possible from the bags. Ensure to label the containers with the date. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it on the stovetop, stirring frequently until hot.
What should I do if my soup turns out too thick?
No worries! If your soup is thicker than you'd like, simply add a splash of chicken stock or water while reheating. Stir it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency. You can adjust seasoning if necessary to maintain the flavor balance.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This Mexican Street Corn Soup is flexible. For dairy-free, you can substitute sour cream and cheese with their plant-based alternatives. If you have any allergies, be sure to read labels to avoid allergens in processed ingredients like chicken stock or Tajín seasoning. Always consider your personal dietary needs when preparing your delicious soup!
Deliciously Creamy Mexican Street Corn Soup Recipe at Home
Equipment
- large pot or Dutch oven
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing veggies
- 1 cup diced red onion adds sweetness
- 1 jalapeño for heat
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts lean protein
- 4 cups fire-roasted corn for smoky sweetness
- 1 cup diced green chiles for flavor
- 2 teaspoons Tajín seasoning for zest
- 2 teaspoons cumin adds earthiness
- 2 teaspoons chili powder for kick
- ½ teaspoon salt to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper to taste
For Creaminess and Garnish
- 4 cups chicken stock for soup base
- ½ cup sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt for creaminess
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese for cheesy goodness
- 1 tablespoon lime juice for freshness
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro for garnish
- ¼ cup crumbled queso fresco for garnish
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Soup
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sauté 1 cup of diced red onion and 1 diced jalapeño for 3-4 minutes. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 4 cups of fire-roasted corn, and 1 cup of diced green chiles. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of Tajín seasoning, 2 teaspoons of cumin, 2 teaspoons of chili powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well.
- Pour in 4 cups of chicken stock and bring to a vigorous boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes.
- Remove cooked chicken from pot, shred into bite-sized pieces, and return to pot. Mix well.
- Stir in ½ cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt, 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and ¼ cup of chopped cilantro. Simmer for another 3 minutes.
- Ladle soup into bowls, top with crumbled queso fresco and additional cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.
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