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Creamy Mexican Street Corn Soup (Esquites Inspired)

Close-up of a bowl of vibrant yellow mexican street corn soup topped with cotija cheese, chili powder, and cilantro.
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Capture the comforting, zesty flavor of Mexican street corn in a rich, creamy soup. This recipe brings the taste of elote or esquites into a satisfying bowl.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 3 cups frozen or fresh corn kernels
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ancho chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Mexican crema
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • For Garnish: 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
  • For Garnish: Tajín seasoning or chili powder
  • For Garnish: Chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and ancho chili powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the corn kernels. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes.
  4. Remove about 1 cup of the corn mixture and set aside. This reserved corn will add texture later.
  5. Carefully transfer the remaining soup mixture to a blender, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
  6. Return the pureed soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the mayonnaise or crema, heavy cream, lime juice, and lime zest. Heat gently, but do not boil.
  7. Stir the reserved whole corn kernels back into the soup. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
  8. Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish generously with crumbled cotija cheese, a sprinkle of Tajín or chili powder, and fresh cilantro.

Notes

  • For a smoky flavor boost, char about 1 cup of fresh corn kernels in a dry skillet before adding them to the soup base.
  • You can substitute chicken broth for vegetable broth if you prefer a non-vegetarian base.
  • If you want a thinner soup, add a splash more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Nutrition

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