ADVERTISEMENT

Mexican Street Corn Soup: A Cozy Twist on Classic Elote

If you’ve ever had the pleasure of tasting elote – the popular Mexican street corn – you already know how addictively delicious it is. Picture it: sweet corn, charred to perfection, smothered in creamy mayonnaise, tangy lime, salty cheese, and a sprinkle of zesty chili powder. Elote is the kind of dish that has people lining up at food trucks and street corners, eager to get their hands on a warm, savory snack that’s bursting with bold, vibrant flavors. But what if you could take those same beloved flavors and transform them into a comforting, soul-warming soup? That’s exactly what this Mexican Street Corn Soup does. It takes all the smoky, tangy, and creamy elements of traditional elote and brings them into a cozy, bowl-worthy dish that will become your new go-to for cozy evenings and family dinners.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Mexican Street Corn Soup: A Cozy Twist on Classic Elote

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

🌽🔥 Mexican Street Corn Soup is here to bring you the flavors of elote in a whole new way! Creamy, savory, and full of flavor, this soup combines roasted corn, tangy lime, chili, and a rich, cheesy base for the ultimate comfort dish. 🧀🍲 It’s the perfect cozy meal for any day of the week, packed with bold flavors that will make your taste buds dance! 💃🍴

#StreetCornSoup #EloteInABowl #ComfortFoodFix #MexicanDelights #SoupSeason #CornGoodness #MexicanCuisine #CheesySoup #FlavorfulBites #CozyMeals

  • Total Time: 48 mins

Ingredients

  1. Olive Oil (1 tbsp)
    The olive oil will serve as the base for sautéing the onions, garlic, and jalapeños. It adds a subtle richness and helps bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
  2. Red Onion (1 small)
    Red onion adds sweetness and a mild sharpness to the soup. It cooks down to a tender texture that adds depth to the flavor profile of the soup.
  3. Jalapeño (1 medium)
    The jalapeño provides a moderate amount of heat and a slight fruity flavor that complements the richness of the soup. Adjust the amount based on your preferred spice level.
  4. Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
    Garlic is essential for any savory dish, and in this recipe, it enhances the overall depth of flavor, adding a savory punch to the base of the soup.
  5. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (2 – 12 oz each)
    The chicken breasts are a key ingredient in making the soup hearty and satisfying. They’ll be shredded into bite-sized pieces, adding protein and a tender texture.
  6. Fire-Roasted Corn (1 – 12 oz package)
    Fire-roasted corn is the star of this soup. It adds smoky, charred flavor that mimics the essence of street corn. If you can’t find fire-roasted corn, you can use regular frozen corn, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor. You can also grill fresh corn to achieve that fire-roasted taste.
  7. Diced Green Chiles (1 – 4 oz can)
    Green chiles contribute a mild heat and a slightly tangy flavor. They add an extra layer of complexity to the soup without overwhelming the other ingredients.
  8. Tajín Seasoning (1 tbsp)
    Tajín seasoning is a flavorful combination of chili powder, lime, and salt. It’s the perfect seasoning to add a little tangy kick to the soup and echo the flavors of traditional elote.
  9. Ground Cumin (2 tsp)
    Cumin is another essential spice in Mexican cuisine. It has a warm, earthy flavor that adds a bit of smokiness and richness to the soup.
  10. Chili Powder (2 tsp)
    Chili powder brings a deep, savory heat to the soup, enhancing the overall flavor without making it overwhelmingly spicy.
  11. Table Salt (½ tsp)
    Salt is necessary to balance and enhance the flavors of the soup, bringing all the ingredients together.
  12. Ground Black Pepper (¼ tsp)
    Pepper adds a hint of spice and a touch of warmth that complements the other seasonings in the soup.
  13. Chicken Stock or Broth (4 cups or 32 oz)
    The chicken stock is the base of the soup, providing richness and depth of flavor. You can use low-sodium chicken broth for a lighter version or regular broth for a fuller taste.
  14. Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt (2 cups)
    The sour cream (or Greek yogurt, for a healthier alternative) adds creaminess to the soup. It creates a luscious, velvety texture that makes each spoonful feel like a comforting indulgence.
  15. Monterey Jack Cheese (½ cup, shredded)
    Monterey Jack cheese adds a mild, creamy flavor that melts beautifully into the soup. It enhances the soup’s richness without overpowering the other flavors.
  16. Lime Juice (from 1 lime)
    Lime juice provides the necessary tang and brightness to balance the richness of the sour cream and cheese. It’s the finishing touch that really brings all the flavors to life.
  17. Cilantro (¼ cup, chopped)
    Cilantro adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the richness of the soup. It also adds a pop of color, making the dish even more visually appealing.
  18. Queso Fresco (½ cup, crumbled)
    Queso fresco is a mild, crumbly cheese that’s typically used to garnish Mexican dishes. It adds a salty, creamy element that finishes the soup beautifully.
  19. Lime Wedges and Chopped Cilantro (for garnish)
    These garnishes are optional, but they elevate the presentation and add an extra layer of flavor when served.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base
    Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the small red onion and jalapeño, sautéing for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to release its aroma.
  2. Cook the Chicken
    Add the chicken breasts to the pot, along with the fire-roasted corn and green chiles. Stir in the Tajín seasoning, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together to evenly coat the chicken and vegetables with the spices.
  3. Simmer the Soup
    Pour in the chicken stock and bring the soup to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.
  4. Shred the Chicken
    After 25 minutes, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
  5. Add Creaminess
    Stir in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Continue to simmer the soup on low heat for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the soup to become rich and creamy.
  6. Add Lime and Cilantro
    Stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro. The lime juice will add a fresh, tangy kick, while the cilantro provides a pop of color and flavor.
  7. Serve and Garnish
    Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled queso fresco, additional cilantro, and lime wedges for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Corn Variations:
    • If you can’t find fire-roasted corn, you can grill fresh corn on the cob and cut the kernels off. This will give you that smoky flavor you’re looking for.
    • You can also use frozen corn if fresh corn isn’t in season. Just sauté it in a pan to get a little char before adding it to the soup.
  • Adjusting the Spice Level:
    • For a milder version, use fewer jalapeños or remove the seeds before adding them to the soup.
    • If you like more heat, add extra jalapeño or toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra chili powder.
  • Make It Vegetarian:
    • Skip the chicken and replace it with beans (black beans or pinto beans work well) for a vegetarian version. This will still give you a hearty soup with plenty of flavor.
  • Creamy Texture:
    • If you want your soup to be extra creamy, you can blend a portion of it using an immersion blender. This will give the soup a smooth texture while still keeping some corn chunks for added texture.
  • Author: Rosa
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 33 mins

Whether you’re craving something for a casual weeknight dinner, a family get-together, or a festive meal with friends, this soup delivers. It has all the satisfaction of a hearty meal, while still offering the bright, punchy flavors that make Mexican street food so special. The creamy texture, combined with the slight heat from jalapeños and the smoky undertones from fire-roasted corn, is nothing short of irresistible. And best of all, it’s a cinch to make. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up this show-stopping soup in no time.

The Appeal of Mexican Street Corn Soup

What makes Mexican Street Corn Soup so appealing? For starters, it brings together some of the most irresistible flavors in Mexican cuisine. The richness of sour cream or Greek yogurt, the mild heat of jalapeño, the smokiness of roasted corn, and the tang of fresh lime all combine into a bowl of comfort that can transport you straight to the streets of Mexico City or any vibrant Mexican market. It’s the kind of soup that warms your soul while simultaneously waking up your taste buds with bold, zesty flavors. Whether served as a meal in itself or as a side dish, this soup never fails to impress.

But beyond its bold and satisfying flavors, the texture of this soup is what really makes it special. The creamy base, enriched with sour cream or Greek yogurt, creates a velvety smooth consistency that perfectly balances the crunchiness of the corn. The shredded chicken adds a hearty touch, making it filling enough for a main course. The soft and tender vegetables, like onions and jalapeños, bring a mild heat and complexity that elevate the soup. And then, just when you think it can’t get any better, you add a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime – finishing touches that add freshness, brightness, and just the right amount of tang.

In short, Mexican Street Corn Soup is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, inviting them to savor a comforting, flavorful experience that’s both familiar and exciting.

Ingredients Breakdown for Mexican Street Corn Soup

Before you begin preparing this delicious soup, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to create this incredible dish. These ingredients are easy to find at most grocery stores and will give you the best flavors and textures possible. Here’s everything you need to make this comforting soup:

  1. Olive Oil (1 tbsp)
    The olive oil will serve as the base for sautéing the onions, garlic, and jalapeños. It adds a subtle richness and helps bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
  2. Red Onion (1 small)
    Red onion adds sweetness and a mild sharpness to the soup. It cooks down to a tender texture that adds depth to the flavor profile of the soup.
  3. Jalapeño (1 medium)
    The jalapeño provides a moderate amount of heat and a slight fruity flavor that complements the richness of the soup. Adjust the amount based on your preferred spice level.
  4. Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
    Garlic is essential for any savory dish, and in this recipe, it enhances the overall depth of flavor, adding a savory punch to the base of the soup.
  5. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (2 – 12 oz each)
    The chicken breasts are a key ingredient in making the soup hearty and satisfying. They’ll be shredded into bite-sized pieces, adding protein and a tender texture.
  6. Fire-Roasted Corn (1 – 12 oz package)
    Fire-roasted corn is the star of this soup. It adds smoky, charred flavor that mimics the essence of street corn. If you can’t find fire-roasted corn, you can use regular frozen corn, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor. You can also grill fresh corn to achieve that fire-roasted taste.
  7. Diced Green Chiles (1 – 4 oz can)
    Green chiles contribute a mild heat and a slightly tangy flavor. They add an extra layer of complexity to the soup without overwhelming the other ingredients.
  8. Tajín Seasoning (1 tbsp)
    Tajín seasoning is a flavorful combination of chili powder, lime, and salt. It’s the perfect seasoning to add a little tangy kick to the soup and echo the flavors of traditional elote.
  9. Ground Cumin (2 tsp)
    Cumin is another essential spice in Mexican cuisine. It has a warm, earthy flavor that adds a bit of smokiness and richness to the soup.
  10. Chili Powder (2 tsp)
    Chili powder brings a deep, savory heat to the soup, enhancing the overall flavor without making it overwhelmingly spicy.
  11. Table Salt (½ tsp)
    Salt is necessary to balance and enhance the flavors of the soup, bringing all the ingredients together.
  12. Ground Black Pepper (¼ tsp)
    Pepper adds a hint of spice and a touch of warmth that complements the other seasonings in the soup.
  13. Chicken Stock or Broth (4 cups or 32 oz)
    The chicken stock is the base of the soup, providing richness and depth of flavor. You can use low-sodium chicken broth for a lighter version or regular broth for a fuller taste.
  14. Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt (2 cups)
    The sour cream (or Greek yogurt, for a healthier alternative) adds creaminess to the soup. It creates a luscious, velvety texture that makes each spoonful feel like a comforting indulgence.
  15. Monterey Jack Cheese (½ cup, shredded)
    Monterey Jack cheese adds a mild, creamy flavor that melts beautifully into the soup. It enhances the soup’s richness without overpowering the other flavors.
  16. Lime Juice (from 1 lime)
    Lime juice provides the necessary tang and brightness to balance the richness of the sour cream and cheese. It’s the finishing touch that really brings all the flavors to life.
  17. Cilantro (¼ cup, chopped)
    Cilantro adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the richness of the soup. It also adds a pop of color, making the dish even more visually appealing.
  18. Queso Fresco (½ cup, crumbled)
    Queso fresco is a mild, crumbly cheese that’s typically used to garnish Mexican dishes. It adds a salty, creamy element that finishes the soup beautifully.
  19. Lime Wedges and Chopped Cilantro (for garnish)
    These garnishes are optional, but they elevate the presentation and add an extra layer of flavor when served.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Soup

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the process of making this flavorful Mexican Street Corn Soup. Don’t worry – it’s simple and doesn’t take much time. Follow the steps below to create this comforting dish:

  1. Prepare the Base
    Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the small red onion and jalapeño, sautéing for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to release its aroma.
  2. Cook the Chicken
    Add the chicken breasts to the pot, along with the fire-roasted corn and green chiles. Stir in the Tajín seasoning, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together to evenly coat the chicken and vegetables with the spices.
  3. Simmer the Soup
    Pour in the chicken stock and bring the soup to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.
  4. Shred the Chicken
    After 25 minutes, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
  5. Add Creaminess
    Stir in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Continue to simmer the soup on low heat for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the soup to become rich and creamy.
  6. Add Lime and Cilantro
    Stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro. The lime juice will add a fresh, tangy kick, while the cilantro provides a pop of color and flavor.
  7. Serve and Garnish
    Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled queso fresco, additional cilantro, and lime wedges for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Final Thoughts on Mexican Street Corn Soup

This Mexican Street Corn Soup brings together all the flavors you love about elote but in a comforting, soup form that’s perfect for any time of the year. The combination of smoky corn, tender chicken, and creamy richness is guaranteed to please every palate. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or as a special dish for family and friends, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

With its vibrant flavors, easy preparation, and hearty texture, this Mexican Street Corn Soup offers a cozy yet exciting dining experience. It’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again, especially when you’re craving the bold, tangy flavors of Mexican street food in the form of a warm, nourishing bowl.

Enjoy the magic of Mexican street corn in this delicious soup that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish is bound to bring joy, comfort, and a little taste of Mexico to your table.

ADVERTISEMENT

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

ADVERTISEMENT