Mexican Street Corn Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying meal, this Mexican Street Corn Soup is just what you need! Inspired by the vibrant flavors of elote, this soup brings a taste of the streets right to your kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone can gather around a warm bowl of deliciousness. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even novice cooks will feel like culinary pros!

What makes this recipe truly special is its comforting blend of ingredients that come together to create something magical. You’ll love how it warms you from the inside out, all while packing a punch of flavor that leaves you wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: With straightforward steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll have this soup ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will enjoy the creamy texture and bold flavors—it’s a hit for both kids and adults!
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup keeps well, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
• Comforting flavors: Each spoonful is filled with the deliciousness of corn, spices, and creamy goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes cooking even more enjoyable! Here’s what you’ll need for this tasty Mexican Street Corn Soup:

• 1 tbsp. olive oil
• 1 small red onion
• 1 medium jalapeno
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (12 oz.) skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• 1 (12 oz.) package fire-roasted frozen corn (or fresh corn or other frozen corn)
• 1 (4 oz.) can diced green chiles
• 1 tbsp. Tajín seasoning
• 2 tsps. ground cumin
• 2 tsps. chile powder
• 1/2 tsp table salt
• 1/4 tsp finely ground black pepper
• 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
• Juice of one lime
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
• Lime wedges and chopped cilantro for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked beans for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or zucchini to boost the nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add some extra jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
• Creamy alternative: Swap sour cream with cashew cream for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped red onion and jalapeño. Cook until the onion softens—about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. This step not only builds flavor but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Next, add the chicken breasts, fire-roasted corn, and diced green chiles to the pot. Season everything with Tajín seasoning, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. These spices are key to achieving that authentic street corn flavor!

Step 3: Simmer Away

Pour in your chicken stock and bring it all to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 25 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

After simmering, remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the pot—this step ensures every spoonful has that delicious protein goodness!

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Stir in sour cream (or Greek yogurt), shredded Monterey Jack cheese, lime juice, and chopped cilantro into your soup mixture. Keep simmering on low for another few minutes until everything is heated through—this adds such richness and depth of flavor.

Step 6: Serve Up!

Finally, ladle your Mexican Street Corn Soup into bowls and top with crumbled queso fresco, lime wedges, and extra cilantro if desired. Enjoy every warm spoonful as you savor this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Mexican Street Corn Soup

Creating a bowl of this delicious Mexican Street Corn Soup can be even more enjoyable with a few helpful tips!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh produce will enhance the flavors of your soup. Fresh corn, if available, adds sweetness and crunch that frozen options can’t replicate.

• Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder soup, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño before adding it to the pot. This simple step allows you to control the spice level while still enjoying that signature flavor.

• Make it vegetarian: For a plant-based version, substitute chicken with black beans or chickpeas for protein. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to maintain depth of flavor without meat.

• Prep ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just warm it up when you’re ready to enjoy!

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to mix up the garnishes! Trying different cheeses or fresh herbs can add a unique twist each time you make it.

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Soup

This Mexican Street Corn Soup is not only hearty but also visually appealing! Serve it in beautiful bowls and sprinkle with vibrant garnishes for an enticing presentation.

Garnishes

• Fresh lime wedges: A squeeze of lime just before eating brightens the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
• Chopped cilantro: This herb not only adds color but also enhances the overall freshness of the dish.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado complements the soup’s texture and brings an extra layer of richness.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Sweet, fluffy cornbread makes a delightful pairing with this comforting soup, perfect for soaking up every last drop.
• Mexican quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with black beans, bell peppers, and a lime vinaigrette provides a nutritious balance to your meal.
• Tortilla chips with salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with a zesty salsa are great for dipping and add an exciting crunch alongside your creamy soup.
• Grilled vegetables: Seasoned grilled veggies like zucchini and bell peppers offer a smoky contrast that complements the soup beautifully.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’re set to enjoy your homemade Mexican Street Corn Soup in style!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mexican Street Corn Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or to serve at gatherings. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing the container to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

What is Mexican Street Corn Soup?

Mexican Street Corn Soup is a flavorful dish inspired by elote, featuring ingredients like fire-roasted corn, spices, and creamy elements that bring the taste of street food into a comforting bowl.

Can I substitute ingredients in Mexican Street Corn Soup?

Absolutely! You can use fresh corn instead of frozen, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or even swap out cheeses based on your preference. The flexibility of this recipe allows you to make it your own!

How long does Mexican Street Corn Soup last in the fridge?

When stored correctly in an airtight container, Mexican Street Corn Soup will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to cool it down before storing!

Is Mexican Street Corn Soup spicy?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted according to your taste! If you prefer less heat, you can reduce or omit the jalapeño or choose mild green chiles.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this cozy and vibrant Mexican Street Corn Soup! It’s truly a special recipe that brings together bold flavors and comforting warmth. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering with friends and family, I’m sure it will become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with me—you might inspire someone else to give this recipe a try!