Name: Mexican Street Corn Soup: A Flavorful & Easy Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 6 ears of fresh corn, husked; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large yellow onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat); 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth, if preferred); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese, plus more for garnish; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish; 2 tablespoons lime juice, plus lime wedges for serving; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; Optional toppings: avocado slices, sour cream, hot sauce

Mexican Street Corn Soup: Prepare to be transported to the vibrant streets of Mexico with every spoonful of this creamy, smoky, and utterly irresistible soup! Forget everything you thought you knew about corn soup; this is a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Have you ever wished you could enjoy the deliciousness of elote without the mess? Well, now you can!

Elote, or Mexican Street Corn, is a beloved snack sold by vendors throughout Mexico. Grilled corn on the cob is slathered in mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice – a truly unforgettable combination. This soup captures all those iconic flavors in a comforting and easy-to-eat format. It's a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.

People adore Mexican Street Corn Soup for its incredible depth of flavor. The sweetness of the corn is perfectly balanced by the smoky char, the tang of lime, and the salty, crumbly cheese. It's a symphony of textures, too, from the creamy broth to the pops of corn kernels. Plus, it's incredibly versatile! Enjoy it as a light lunch, a satisfying appetizer, or even a hearty main course. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So, grab your ingredients, and let's bring the taste of Mexico to your table!

Ingredients:

6 ears of fresh corn, husked
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)
4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth, if preferred)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese, plus more for garnish
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
2 tablespoons lime juice, plus lime wedges for serving
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional toppings: avocado slices, sour cream, hot sauce

Preparing the Corn

Okay, let's get started! The first thing we need to do is get that amazing corn flavor going. We're going to char the corn, which really brings out its sweetness and adds a smoky depth to the soup. Trust me, this step is worth it!

Char the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you don't have a grill, you can use a gas stovetop burner or even your broiler. Lightly brush the husked corn with olive oil.
Grilling Method: Place the corn directly on the grill grates and grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are lightly charred and slightly softened. You want some nice black spots, but don't burn them completely!
Stovetop Method: If using a gas stovetop, place the corn directly over the flame, turning frequently, until charred. This will be quicker than grilling, so keep a close eye on it.
Broiler Method: If using a broiler, place the corn on a baking sheet and broil for about 5-7 minutes, turning halfway through, until charred. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Cool and Cut: Once the corn is charred, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Then, using a sharp knife, carefully cut the kernels off the cob. Try to get as close to the cob as possible to get all that delicious corn "milk." Set the kernels aside.

Making the Soup Base

Now that we have our beautifully charred corn, it's time to build the flavor base of our soup. This involves sautéing some aromatics and spices to create a rich and savory foundation.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Garlic and Bell Pepper: Add the minced garlic and chopped red bell pepper to the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and the bell pepper is slightly softened. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Spice it Up: If you're using jalapeño, add it to the pot along with the chili powder and smoked paprika. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to bloom the spices and release their flavors. This will really enhance the overall taste of the soup.

Simmering the Soup

This is where the magic happens! We'll combine the charred corn, broth, and spices and let everything simmer together to create a creamy and flavorful soup.

Add Corn and Broth: Add the charred corn kernels to the pot along with the vegetable broth (or chicken broth). Stir well to combine.
Simmer: Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This simmering time is crucial for developing a rich and complex flavor.

Blending and Finishing

To achieve that creamy, velvety texture we're looking for, we'll need to blend the soup. You can use an immersion blender or a regular blender, but be very careful when blending hot liquids!

Blend the Soup: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (in batches, if necessary) or use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, be sure to vent the lid to prevent pressure from building up.
Return to Pot: If you used a regular blender, return the blended soup to the pot.
Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and 1/2 cup of crumbled cotija cheese. Heat gently over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. Do not boil!
Season to Taste: Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but you can't take it away!

Serving and Garnishing

Finally, the best part – serving and enjoying your delicious Mexican Street Corn Soup! Get creative with your toppings to make it extra special.

Ladle into Bowls: Ladle the soup into bowls.
Garnish: Garnish with additional crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Optional Toppings: For extra flavor and texture, consider adding avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
Serve Immediately: Serve the soup immediately while it's hot and creamy.

Tips and Variations

Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño to your liking. If you're sensitive to heat, you can omit it altogether.
Vegan Option: To make this soup vegan, use vegetable broth, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and omit the cotija cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Smoked Corn: For an even smokier flavor, try using smoked corn on the cob.
Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Freezing: The soup can also be frozen for longer storage. However, the texture may change slightly after thawing.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It's a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of Mexican street corn in a warm and comforting soup. Don't be afraid to experiment with different toppings and variations to make it your own. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Mexican Street Corn Soup isn't just another soup recipe; it's a vibrant, flavorful experience that brings the taste of summer right to your bowl, no matter the season. The creamy texture, the smoky char of the corn, and the zesty kick of lime and chili powder all combine to create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It's quick, easy, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, making it a must-try for anyone looking to add a little sunshine to their meal. But the best part? It's incredibly versatile! For a heartier meal, consider adding shredded chicken or black beans. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds extra richness, while a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese provides a salty, tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the corn. If you're feeling adventurous, try topping it with crispy tortilla strips for added crunch or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat. Serving suggestions are endless. This soup is fantastic as a starter for a Mexican-themed dinner, a light lunch on a warm day, or even a comforting dinner on a chilly evening. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish tacos for a complete and satisfying meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a vibrant salad with a citrus vinaigrette. And don't forget the garnishes! Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime are the perfect finishing touches. I truly believe this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It's a simple yet sophisticated dish that's perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. The beauty of this Mexican Street Corn Soup lies in its adaptability. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your own personal preferences. Want it spicier? Add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Prefer a smoother texture? Blend a portion of the soup before adding the toppings. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own! I've tried countless variations over the years, and each one has been a delicious adventure. The key is to start with high-quality ingredients and let your creativity guide you. I'm so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Mexican street corn in a comforting soup form. It's a dish that's close to my heart, and I know it will bring joy to your table as well. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. And most importantly, don't forget to share your experience! I'd love to hear your thoughts, see your creations, and learn about any variations you come up with. Tag me in your photos on social media and let me know what you think. Happy cooking! I can't wait to see what you create! This recipe is a guaranteed winner, and I know you'll love it as much as I do. Enjoy!