Mexican Street Corn Soup Recipe Charred Corn And Cilantro Drizzle

I’ve found the perfect answer for those weeknights when I crave something exciting but time is short. This mexican street corn soup recipe Charred Corn and Cilantro Drizzle delivers that incredible aroma of smoky, sweet charred corn and bright lime right into your kitchen. If you’re looking for healthy recipes for dinner that genuinely satisfy, this mexican street corn soup recipe is a fantastic choice. It brings vibrant, family-friendly flavors to your table with minimal fuss. For busy families, this soup is a true lifesaver, making weeknight meals feel special without the usual effort.

What You’ll Need for Mexican Street Corn Soup

Gathering your ingredients for this mexican street corn soup recipe Charred Corn and Cilantro Drizzle is simple. Fresh, high-quality items make all the difference, but I’ve included some smart swaps to keep it easy and budget-friendly for your family-friendly meal. This is one of my go-to easy dinner ideas, and this mexican street corn soup recipe delivers every time.

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (950ml): The foundation for a rich, hearty soup. For a healthier option, I often reach for low-sodium broth.
• 2 (15 oz) cans corn, drained, or 3 cups fresh/frozen (approx. 425g): For natural sweetness and that essential char. Organic corn adds a noticeably sweeter flavor.
• 1 tbsp olive oil (15ml): For charring the corn and sautéing aromatics.
• 1 small onion, diced (approx. 100g): Provides a sweet, aromatic base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (approx. 10g): Deepens the flavor profile. (You can use 1 tsp pre-minced garlic in a pinch!)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (120ml): Creates a wonderfully creamy texture. (Milk or light coconut milk works for a lighter version).
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (approx. 10g): Essential for brightness and for the vibrant drizzle.
• 2 tbsp lime juice (30ml): Adds a tangy, zesty kick that brightens the entire dish. Freshly squeezed is a must!
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (2.5g): Provides a gentle warmth without too much heat.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Balances all the flavors.

For the Charred Corn and Cilantro Drizzle:

• 2 tbsp cotija cheese, crumbled (approx. 15g): For a salty, tangy counterpoint. (Parmesan cheese can be used if cotija isn’t available).
• 1 tbsp lime juice (15ml): Enhances the drizzle’s zestiness.
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro (approx. 8g): Adds fresh, vibrant color and flavor.
• 1 tbsp olive oil (15ml): Binds the drizzle and adds a silken finish.

When sweet corn is in season during summer, grab fresh ears for the best flavor! Otherwise, high-quality frozen corn works beautifully for this easy dinner idea. Always prioritize fresh cilantro and lime for that essential vibrant taste in this amazing mexican street corn soup recipe Charred Corn and Cilantro Drizzle.

Step-by-Step Method Made Simple

Whipping up this cozy mexican street corn soup recipe Charred Corn and Cilantro Drizzle is truly straightforward. Follow these steps for a delicious, hearty meal that feels much fancier than the effort it takes.

1. Char the Corn (5-7 minutes): Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add corn and cook, stirring occasionally, until kernels are slightly charred and tender-crisp. You’ll hear them sizzle and start to brown. Remove about half of the charred corn and set aside; this will be for a lovely texture contrast at the end.
2. Sauté Aromatics (3-5 minutes): Add the diced onion to the same pot. Cook, stirring, until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and chili powder, cooking for another minute until you can smell their fragrant aroma. If the pot looks too dry, splash in 1-2 tablespoons of broth to prevent burning.
3. Simmer the Soup (10 minutes): Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich base.
4. Blend for Creaminess (5 minutes): Carefully transfer about 2 cups (475ml) of the hot soup to a heat-safe blender, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until the soup is smooth and creamy. Return the blended portion to the pot with the remaining soup. For a faster method, skip blending and just enjoy a chunkier soup!
5. Finish & Season (5 minutes): Stir in the heavy cream (or milk for a healthier twist), lime juice, and the reserved charred corn. Heat through gently until just warmed, about 2-3 minutes; do not boil. The soup should look rich and slightly thickened. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste until the flavors sing. If it’s lacking flavor, a squeeze more lime juice or a pinch more chili powder can awaken the taste buds.
6. Prepare Cilantro Drizzle: In a small bowl, combine the crumbled cotija cheese, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, 1 tbsp lime juice, and 1 tbsp olive oil. Mix these ingredients well until you have a vibrant green, tangy topping. Serve the mexican street corn soup hot, garnished generously with this zesty cilantro drizzle and extra fresh cilantro for a truly appealing finish.

The corn should have golden-brown char marks, the soup will be slightly thickened after blending, and the cilantro drizzle will be a vibrant green, ready to elevate your meal. My kids actually love helping with the drizzle, which makes this quick meal even more family-friendly.

Perfect Occasions and Serving Inspiration

This vibrant mexican street corn soup recipe is perfect for any occasion! It makes a fantastic weeknight dinner, a comforting lunch, or an ideal dish for casual gatherings. It’s also superb for easy meal prep for busy families, ensuring quick, wholesome meals are always on hand.

• Serving Pairings: Enjoy with warm crusty bread, a simple green salad, or alongside grilled chicken or fish.
• Delicious Toppings: Garnish with extra crumbled cotija cheese, creamy sliced avocado, a dash of hot sauce, or crunchy tortilla strips.

Store leftover mexican street corn soup in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. I often double this recipe on Sunday; it truly simplifies our quick meals and lunches for the entire week.

Nutrition & Everyday Wellness Benefits

Embrace healthy eating with this satisfying soup! This hearty soup provides sustained energy and is a good source of vitamins from corn and lime. It’s a delicious and easy way to get your vegetables, fitting perfectly into healthy recipes for dinner plans.

• Hearty and Satisfying: Keeps you full longer with its creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Good Source of Fiber: Supports digestive health, primarily from the corn.
• Customizable for Lighter Options: Easily adapted for lower-calorie choices, supporting your wellness goals.
• Naturally Gluten-Free: (Always check your broth label to confirm.)
• Easy Meal Prep: An excellent choice for easy meal prep for busy families looking for convenient and healthy options.

Why This Recipe Works for You

This mexican street corn soup recipe truly works wonders for your lifestyle. It helps you save precious time without sacrificing flavor, encourages you to eat better with fresh ingredients, and fosters memorable family dinners around a comforting bowl.

• Budget-Friendly: Made with readily available pantry staples.
• Quick Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for quick meals.
• Easily Adaptable: Simple to adjust for various dietary needs, making it a truly family-friendly dish.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed favorite that everyone at your table will love.

Smart Upgrades and Adjustments

For a truly polished finish, remember this technique: don’t overcook the lime juice and cilantro. Add them towards the very end to preserve their vibrant freshness and bright flavors in your mexican street corn soup. This simple step makes a big difference.

• Flavor Variations: For deeper flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika. For smoky heat, a dash of chipotle powder.
• Diet Adaptations:
• Low-Carb: Reduce corn; add zucchini or bell peppers.
• Vegan: Use vegetable broth, full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream, and nutritional yeast.
• Kid-Friendly: Use less chili powder; offer fun toppings.

Reader Q&A

Can I prepare this Mexican street corn soup ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! This delicious mexican street corn soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld and deepen. Simply store it properly in an airtight container once cooled, and it will be ready to enjoy.

Is this soup good for meal prep?

It’s an excellent choice for easy meal prep for busy families. This soup reheats beautifully, making it perfect for portioning into individual containers for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. It holds its texture and flavor well.

What’s the best way to store Mexican street corn soup?

For best results, store your mexican street corn soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to store it longer, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Are there healthier substitutes for this recipe?

Yes, for a lighter version, you can certainly use skim milk or a plant-based milk (like unsweetened almond milk) instead of heavy cream. Also, consider adding more non-starchy vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers to your mexican street corn soup to boost nutrition.

Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh or frozen corn (thawed) works wonderfully for this mexican street corn soup recipe. The key is to ensure it’s charred well in the first step for that smoky depth. I often char frozen corn directly from the bag on busy nights for perfect results.

What can I serve with this Mexican street corn soup recipe?

This mexican street corn soup is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast. Warm tortillas or a quesadilla make a great accompaniment. For a fuller meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or black bean burgers.

Savor the vibrant, creamy, and zesty flavors of this easy mexican street corn soup for a comforting and healthy meal. Make this flavorful soup tonight, or add it to your easy meal prep rotation to enjoy quick meals all week!

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