Mexican Street Corn Soup

this RECIPE

Introduction to Mexican Street Corn Soup

As a busy mom and passionate home cook, I know how essential it is to find quick and delicious meals that bring everyone together. That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Mexican Street Corn Soup. This vibrant soup is a delightful blend of flavors, combining tender chicken and sweet corn with zesty seasonings. It’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need something comforting yet impressive. This recipe is not only quick to make but also packs a punch of flavor that will make your loved ones rave about dinner. Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Soup

This Mexican Street Corn Soup is as delightful to prepare as it is to enjoy. With just 45 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy nights. Plus, the blend of sweet corn, tender chicken, and zesty spices dances on your taste buds, turning ordinary meals into extraordinary ones. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up a restaurant-quality dish that warms the heart and nourishes the soul.

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Soup

Let’s gather all the vibrant ingredients that will elevate your Mexican Street Corn Soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Olive oil: This golden goodness helps to sauté the aromatics, creating a flavorful base.
• Red onion: A sweeter variety, it brings a lovely depth and a splash of color to the soup.
• Jalapeño: For that kick! You can adjust the heat by leaving some seeds in or using a milder pepper.
• Garlic: Adds an aromatic element that’s hard to resist; fresh is best for maximum flavor.
• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, they cook quickly and shred easily for a hearty fill.
• Fire-roasted frozen corn: Sweet and smoky, this instant flavor enhancer is a game changer. Fresh corn works too!
• Diced green chiles: These give a nice hint of heat and richness; the canned variety is quick and convenient.
• Tajín seasoning: A delightful tangy twist, featuring chili, lime, and salt. If you don’t have this, try a dash of chili powder and lime juice.
• Ground cumin: This spice introduces warmth and earthiness, a must for Mexican cuisine.
• Chili powder: Adds additional depth and heat; a classic flavor in soups.
• Table salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
• Chicken stock or broth: The soul of the soup; using low-sodium options allows you to control the saltiness.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: For creaminess and a bit of tang; this also helps to cool down the spice.
• Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture; feel free to substitute with cheddar if you prefer.
• Lime juice: This fresh squeeze of citrus brightens the dish and balances the flavors.
• Cilantro: Fresh herbiness that adds a pop of color and flavor, but feel free to skip if you’re not a fan.
• Queso fresco: Crumbled on top for an authentic Mexican touch; it offers a creamy texture and nice saltiness.

All the exact measurements are at the bottom of the article and available for printing. Gather these goodies, and let’s get cooking!

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Base

Start by warming that luscious olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. As the oil shimmers, toss in the diced red onion and jalapeño. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, making your mouth water! Sauté these for about 3–4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent. At this point, it’s time to add the minced garlic. Let it cook for another 30 seconds, just enough for that fragrant essence to bloom. Remember, burnt garlic can be bitter, so keep an eye on it! This aromatic base is the foundation for a sensational soup that enhances the sweetness of corn and the heartiness of chicken.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Corn

Now, it’s time to bring in the stars of our show! Carefully lay the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the pot, along with the fire-roasted frozen corn and those zingy diced green chiles. The mix of flavors is simply irresistible! Season generously with the Tajín, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together, ensuring everything is well-coated and well-seasoned. Next, pour in your chicken stock, giving the soup a sense of depth and richness. This combination is where the magic happens! You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how quickly this dish comes together.

Step 3: Simmer for Flavor

Once your mixture reaches a gentle boil, turn down the heat and let it simmer. Cover the pot and allow it to cook for 25 minutes. This simmering time is crucial as it lets the flavors blend beautifully, creating a harmonious taste sensation. It gives the chicken enough time to absorb all the delightful spices too. This is when you can take a moment to breathe in the delicious aroma wafting through your home. What’s not to love about that?

Tips for Success

• Make sure to let the soup cool before transferring to airtight containers for freezing.
• For extra flavor, try roasting your corn on a stovetop grill before adding it to the soup.
• Don’t skimp on the lime juice; it brightens the soup wonderfully!
• Garnish generously with cilantro and queso fresco for that authentic touch.
• Prep your ingredients in advance to save time during busy weeknights.

Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven: A sturdy pot is essential; you can also use a deep skillet.
• Cutting board and knife: For chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients; any cutting surface will do.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise ingredient amounts; a simple kitchen scale can work.
• Spoon or spatula: For stirring and mixing; even a wooden spoon will suffice.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for black beans or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian take.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for an extra layer of smokiness and heat.
• Coconut Cream: Substitute sour cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free, tropical twist on this Mexican Street Corn Soup.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or mint if cilantro isn’t your favorite, adding a fresh touch.
• Cheese Choices: Try different cheeses like crumbled feta or pepper jack for varied flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the soup with warmed tortillas or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious broth.
• For a refreshing touch, serve alongside a simple avocado salad drizzled with lime.
• A chilled glass of mango or lime agua frescas complements the flavors perfectly.
• Top bowls with extra cilantro and a wedge of lime for bright presentation.

FAQs about Mexican Street Corn Soup

Can I make Mexican Street Corn Soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. The flavors only get better as they meld together. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to serve!

Can I freeze Mexican Street Corn Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to three months. Just let it cool completely and transfer to airtight containers. I often label them with the date to keep track, making meal prep even easier!

What if my family doesn’t like spicy food?
No worries! You can control the heat by adjusting the jalapeño, removing all seeds, or leaving it out entirely. This Mexican Street Corn Soup will still be rich and satisfying without the spice.

How can I make this soup healthier?
To lighten it up, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Additionally, you can cut back on the cheese. The soup remains creamy and delicious without sacrificing flavor!

What can I serve with Mexican Street Corn Soup?
I love pairing this soup with crusty bread or warm tortillas. A refreshing side salad or some guacamole makes it a complete meal the whole family will love!

Final Thoughts

Making this Mexican Street Corn Soup is more than just cooking a meal; it’s about creating joyful moments with your loved ones. The comforting blend of flavors warms the soul and brings a smile to everyone’s face. Each bite is a celebration of rich spices, sweet corn, and tender chicken, all coming together in harmony. I hope you find as much joy in preparing and enjoying this soup as I do. It’s a wonderful dish that whispers warmth in every spoonful, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Happy cooking!

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