The Ultimate Guide to Mexican Street Corn Soup

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Mexican Street Corn Soup is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish inspired by the beloved street food, elote. If you love the zesty, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors of traditional Mexican street corn, this soup takes all those elements and transforms them into a cozy, comforting meal. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or a side dish, this soup is sure to impress with its perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and vibrant seasonings.

The History of Elote and Its Influence on Mexican Cuisine

Elote, or Mexican street corn, has long been a staple in Mexican cuisine. Traditionally, it consists of grilled corn slathered with a mixture of mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice, creating a bold and zesty flavor. This street food is commonly found in markets and roadside vendors across Mexico. Over time, elote has influenced many modern dishes, including soups, dips, and casseroles. Mexican Street Corn Soup is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of elote in a warm, comforting bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Soup

• Bursting with Flavor: This soup is packed with smoky fire-roasted corn, zesty lime, and rich sour cream for a bold taste.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients come together quickly, making this a great weeknight meal.
• Hearty & Satisfying: Loaded with shredded chicken and cheese, it’s a filling, comforting bowl.
• Perfect for Any Season: Whether it’s a chilly winter night or a summer gathering, this soup is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Soup

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need a combination of fresh, canned, and pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:

Soup Base:

• 1 tbsp. olive oil – Helps to sauté the aromatics.
• 1 small red onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 medium jalapeño, finely chopped – Provides a touch of heat.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Gives a robust flavor to the base.

Main Ingredients:

• 2 (12 oz.) skinless, boneless chicken breasts – Adds protein and heartiness.
• 1 (12 oz.) package fire-roasted frozen corn – Gives a smoky, grilled flavor.
• 1 (4 oz.) can diced green chiles – Adds mild heat and tanginess.
• 1 tbsp. Tajín seasoning – Enhances the zest and spice of the soup.
• 2 tsp. ground cumin – Brings a warm, earthy flavor.
• 2 tsp. chili powder – Adds depth and slight smokiness.
• 1/2 tsp. table salt – Balances the flavors.
• 1/4 tsp. finely ground black pepper – Adds a mild spice.

Broth & Creamy Elements:

• 4 cups (32 oz.) chicken stock – Forms the base of the soup.
• 2 cups sour cream (or full-fat Greek yogurt) – Makes the soup rich and creamy.
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese – Adds mild, melty cheesiness.
• Juice of one lime – Brightens up the soup with acidity.
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro – Gives a fresh, herby finish.
• 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco – Adds a creamy, tangy topping.

Garnish:

• Lime wedges
• Chopped cilantro

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Add the red onion and jalapeño, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the onions soften. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Seasonings

Place the chicken breasts, fire-roasted corn, and green chiles into the pot. Sprinkle in Tajín, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to evenly coat the ingredients with the seasonings.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken stock, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for 25 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.

Step 5: Add Creamy Elements

Stir in the sour cream, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, lime juice, and cilantro. Let it simmer on low heat for 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled queso fresco, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Mexican Street Corn Soup

• Use Fire-Roasted Corn: This gives the soup its signature smoky flavor. If you can’t find it frozen, try grilling fresh corn.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Add more or less jalapeño or chili powder to control the heat.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk or cashew cream for sour cream and use dairy-free cheese.
• Add Extra Toppings: Avocado, tortilla strips, or hot sauce are great additions.

Serving and Storing Mexican Street Corn Soup

Serving Suggestions:

This soup pairs well with:

• Warm corn tortillas
• Mexican rice
• A side of guacamole and chips

Storing Leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients except the sour cream, cheese, and lime juice to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then stir in the remaining ingredients before serving.

Is Mexican Street Corn Soup Spicy?

It has a mild spice level. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the jalapeño and chili powder.

Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?

Absolutely! Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. You can also add black beans or chickpeas for extra protein.

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How to Make This Soup Vegan or Dairy-Free

To make this soup vegan, start by replacing the chicken stock with vegetable broth to maintain the savory depth without using animal products. Instead of chicken, opt for canned chickpeas or black beans, both of which provide ample protein and a satisfying texture. If you want extra heartiness, diced mushrooms or zucchini work wonderfully in this dish.

For the creamy element, swap sour cream for dairy-free yogurt or cashew cream. Cashew cream is an excellent alternative because it mimics the silkiness of traditional dairy. Many brands also offer vegan cheese alternatives that melt beautifully into the soup. Garnish with nutritional yeast or vegan queso fresco to get the full effect of the authentic dish.

This modified version retains the rich, smoky, and zesty flavors while making it suitable for plant-based diets. The best part is that the seasonings remain the same, ensuring the soup remains just as delicious!

Pairing Suggestions for Mexican Street Corn Soup

Pairing this soup with the right side dishes enhances its flavor and turns it into a full meal. One classic option is warm corn tortillas, which are perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. The combination of soft tortillas and rich soup creates a comforting experience.

For a heartier meal, serve the soup with Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice. The mild, aromatic rice balances the bold flavors of the soup while adding a pleasant texture.

If you love contrasting textures, enjoy the soup with a side of fresh guacamole and tortilla chips. The creamy guacamole and crispy chips provide a satisfying crunch and complement the soup’s smokiness. Other great pairings include grilled shrimp tacos, black bean salad, or spicy elote-style corn on the cob for an added burst of authentic flavors.

Health Benefits of Corn-Based Soups

Corn is a nutrient-dense ingredient, making this soup not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Corn is naturally rich in fiber, which supports digestive health by promoting regularity. It’s also a great source of B vitamins, including folate, which is essential for energy production and cell function.

Additionally, corn contains antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote eye health and may reduce the risk of macular degeneration. This soup is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities.

To make this soup lower in fat, you can substitute full-fat Greek yogurt for sour cream, which maintains the creaminess while providing a boost of protein and probiotics. Adding extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach enhances the soup’s nutritional value, ensuring you get a well-rounded meal in every bowl.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Soup is the perfect fusion of comforting warmth and vibrant street food flavors. It’s creamy, smoky, tangy, and just the right amount of spicy. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to be a hit!

Try This Recipe!

If you make this Mexican Street Corn Soup, let us know in the comments and tag us on social media! Enjoy your flavorful, comforting bowl of elote-inspired goodness!