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Mexican Street Corn Soup

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Mexican Street Corn Soup is a creamy, comforting dish inspired by elote, featuring sweet corn, Cotija cheese, lime, chili, and cilantro for a bold and zesty flavor experience.

Ingredients

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  • 1/4 cup olive or vegetable oil
  • 6 cups fresh corn kernels (from 8-10 shucked cobs)
  • 1 cup chopped yellow onion
  • 1/4 teaspoon ancho chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 large garlic cloves, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup grated dry Cotija cheese (or Parmesan/Romano)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
  • 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons chopped cilantro, divided

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Add corn kernels, onion, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until corn is lightly charred and onion is soft, about 8–10 minutes.
  3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Remove 1 1/2 cups of the corn mixture and set aside for garnish.
  5. Stir in broth and 6 stripped corn cobs. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
  6. Remove and discard the cobs. Stir in sour cream and Cotija cheese.
  7. Blend the soup in batches until smooth. Return to pot and gently reheat if needed.
  8. Stir in half the reserved corn mixture, lime juice, and 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  9. Toss remaining corn with lime zest and 2 teaspoons cilantro. Use as topping for each bowl.
  10. Serve soup hot, garnished with corn topping and additional Cotija cheese if desired.

Notes

  • For more heat, add jalapeño or poblano when sautéing onion.
  • To make it vegan, use dairy-free cheese and cashew cream.
  • Simmering the stripped corn cobs in broth enhances flavor naturally.
  • Soup can be served chilled for a refreshing summer version.
  • Can be made ahead and tastes better the next day.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipeeasily.com/mexican-street-corn-soup-recipe/