Mexican Street Corn Soup

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This Mexican Street Corn Soup transforms the beloved flavors of elote (Mexican street corn) into a hearty, comforting soup. The recipe combines fire-roasted corn with tender chicken, creating a rich and satisfying dish that captures all the zesty, creamy elements of traditional street corn. What makes this soup special is its blend of authentic Mexican seasonings like Tajín with creamy elements like sour cream and queso fresco, creating layers of flavor that honor the original street food while offering a new way to enjoy it. Perfect for those who love Mexican flavors but want them in a cozy, spoonable format, this soup brings together the best of comfort food and street food traditions.
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Updated on Sun, 23 Feb 2025 17:41:53 GMT
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Mexican Street Corn Soup transforms the beloved flavors of elote into a warm, comforting bowl that captures all the magic of street food. This hearty soup combines fire-roasted corn with tender chicken and aromatic spices in a creamy, cheese-enriched broth that's brightened with lime and fresh cilantro. Each spoonful delivers the perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and creamy elements that make Mexican street corn so irresistible.

Last week, I served this at a family gathering, and my nephew, who usually avoids soup, asked for seconds. The empty pot spoke volumes about its appeal across generations.

Essential Elements

  • Fire-roasted corn: Provides essential smoky flavor
  • Fresh jalapeño: Adds perfect heat level
  • Tajín seasoning: Creates authentic Mexican flavor
  • Tender chicken: Adds hearty protein
  • Sour cream: Creates silky texture
  • Fresh lime: Brightens all flavors
  • Quality cheese: Both Monterey Jack and queso fresco add depth
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Creating Perfect Soup

Base Building:
Sauté aromatics until properly softened. This foundation creates depth of flavor throughout the soup.
Layering Flavors:
Add seasonings gradually, allowing each to bloom in the heat. Build complexity with each addition.
Protein Perfection:
Cook chicken gently for tenderness. Shred into bite-sized pieces for ideal texture.
Final Balance:
Finish with creamy elements and fresh garnishes for perfect presentation.

My grandmother always said soup should be a complete meal in a bowl. This recipe proves her right with its perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and comfort.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this satisfying soup with warm tortillas or crusty bread for dipping. Add a fresh green salad with citrus vinaigrette for contrast. For special occasions, start with guacamole and chips.

Creative Variations

Experiment with different corn preparations like grilling fresh corn for extra smokiness. Try using rotisserie chicken for convenience, or make it vegetarian by substituting vegetables and vegetable stock.

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Storage Success

Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to prevent cream from separating. Add fresh garnishes just before serving.

After perfecting this recipe through countless batches, I've found that success lies in the details - the proper charring of the corn, the gentle addition of dairy, and the balance of seasonings. Whether you're craving comfort food or missing street corn, this soup delivers all the flavors you love in a warm, satisfying bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, but add the dairy components (sour cream and cheeses) when reheating to prevent curdling. The base soup can be made up to 3 days ahead.
→ What can I substitute for fire-roasted corn?
Regular frozen corn works, but for best flavor, char fresh corn on the grill or in a cast-iron skillet. You'll need about 5 medium ears of corn.
→ Can I make this vegetarian?
Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Add extra corn or black beans for substance.
→ Is Tajín seasoning necessary?
While it adds authentic flavor, you can substitute with a mixture of chili powder, lime zest, and salt if needed.
→ How spicy is this soup?
The heat level is moderate but adjustable. Remove jalapeño seeds for less heat, or add more for extra spiciness.

Mexican Street Corn Soup

A creamy, comforting soup inspired by Mexican street corn (elote), featuring fire-roasted corn, tender chicken, and classic Mexican seasonings.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
33 Minutes
Total Time
48 Minutes

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Mexican-American

Yield: 6 Servings

Dietary: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Base Ingredients

01 1 tablespoon olive oil
02 1 small red onion
03 1 medium jalapeno
04 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 2 (12 oz.) skinless, boneless chicken breasts
06 1 (12 oz.) package fire-roasted frozen corn
07 1 (4 oz.) can diced green chiles

→ Seasonings

08 1 tablespoon Tajin seasoning
09 2 teaspoons ground cumin
10 2 teaspoons chile powder
11 1/2 teaspoon table salt
12 1/4 teaspoon finely ground black pepper

→ Liquids and Dairy

13 4 cups (32 oz.) chicken stock
14 2 cups full-fat sour cream
15 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

→ For Finishing

16 Juice of one lime
17 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
18 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
19 Lime wedges and additional chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Step 01

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

Step 02

Add chicken, fire-roasted corn, and green chiles to the pot. Season with Tajín, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 03

Pour in chicken stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer, cover, and cook for 25 minutes.

Step 04

Remove chicken and shred into bite-sized pieces, then return to pot.

Step 05

Stir in sour cream, Monterey Jack cheese, lime juice, and cilantro. Simmer on low for another 3 minutes.

Step 06

Serve topped with queso fresco crumbles, lime wedges, and additional chopped cilantro.

Notes

  1. Can use fresh charred corn (about 5 medium ears) instead of frozen
  2. Fire-roasted corn provides best flavor
  3. Greek yogurt can substitute for sour cream
  4. Can be made dairy-free with appropriate substitutions

Tools You'll Need

  • Dutch oven or large pot
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 465
  • Total Fat: 31 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 21 g
  • Protein: 25 g