Mexican Street Corn Soup

Bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn, or elote, right to your kitchen with this comforting and creamy Mexican Street Corn Soup! Bursting with the flavors of charred corn, spicy peppers, creamy cheese, and a hint of lime, this soup is perfect for cool nights or as a tasty appetizer for any Mexican-inspired meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of elote, the popular Mexican street food made with grilled corn, mayonnaise, lime, and chili powder, you’re going to fall in love with this soup. It’s everything you love about Mexican street corn in a creamy, spoonable form that’s quick to make and sure to impress!

Key Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this irresistible Mexican Street Corn Soup:

• Corn – Fresh or frozen works here. Fresh corn offers a more robust flavor, but frozen is a fantastic option for convenience.
• Heavy cream or milk – Adds a rich, velvety texture to the soup.
• Chicken or vegetable broth – Forms the base of the soup, bringing out the savory flavors.
• Cotija cheese – A crumbly, salty Mexican cheese that adds depth to the dish.
• Jalapeños or serrano peppers – For a spicy kick; adjust to your preference!
• Garlic and onion – Essential for that delicious, aromatic base.
• Lime juice and zest – Provides brightness to balance out the creaminess.
• Chili powder and smoked paprika – Adds smoky heat and that signature elote flavor.

Pro Tip: If you can’t find Cotija cheese, you can substitute it with feta or even Parmesan for a similar tangy flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to whip up a bowl of Mexican Street Corn Soup that’s sure to wow!

Step 1: Char the Corn

To achieve that delicious, smoky flavor reminiscent of grilled street corn:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little oil and spread the corn kernels in a single layer.
2. Let the corn cook without stirring for about 3–4 minutes until it starts to char, then stir and repeat until most kernels are slightly blackened.

Pro Tip: Charring the corn is optional, but it gives an authentic smoky taste. If you’re in a hurry, you can skip this step and use regular cooked corn.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, and peppers of choice, cooking for another minute to let the spices bloom.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Corn

1. Pour in the broth and add the charred corn.
2. Bring the soup to a simmer, then let it cook for about 10–15 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 4: Blend for Creaminess

1. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy, or leave a few chunks if you prefer texture.
2. Stir in the heavy cream or milk for added richness.

Pro Tip: If you like a thicker soup, add a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina (corn flour) while it simmers to thicken it up.

Step 5: Finish with Toppings

1. Stir in the lime juice and zest, tasting and adjusting as needed.
2. Top each bowl with Cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, a sprinkle of chili powder, and extra charred corn kernels for garnish.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican Street Corn Soup pairs beautifully with:

• Warm tortillas or tortilla chips for dipping.
• A light Mexican salad with avocado and tomatoes.
• Grilled chicken or shrimp if you want to make it a full meal.

Pro Tip: For a vegan version, use plant-based cream or coconut milk and replace the Cotija cheese with a vegan alternative.

Make It Your Own

Here are a few variations to try:

• Spicy Lover’s Twist: Add extra jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
• Cheesy Bliss: Stir in extra shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a thicker, cheesier soup.
• Chunky Style: Instead of blending, keep the soup chunky for more of a stew-like texture.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Soup is warm, satisfying, and loaded with flavor. It’s a dish that’s sure to please any crowd, whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as a cozy family meal. Try it today and experience a taste of Mexican street food right at home!