Mexican Street Corn Soup is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of street corn right to your kitchen. With the magic of a slow cooker, this creamy soup simplifies your cooking routine while delivering a rich and satisfying meal. Ideal for cozy dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, this recipe showcases the vibrant tastes of Mexican cuisine in a comforting form.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With less than 10 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it!
- Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a deliciously creamy and savory profile.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish or served alongside your favorite sides.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome vegetables and lean protein, it’s a nutritious choice.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family dinners or entertaining guests. Everyone will love it!
Tools and Preparation
Preparing Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup is straightforward, but having the right tools makes the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large saute pan
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over several hours.
- Large saute pan: Essential for sautéing vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker; enhances flavor depth.
- Chef’s knife: A good quality knife ensures precise chopping, making prep quick and safe.
Ingredients
- 1 white onion, diced
- 1 poblano pepper or jalapeno pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, diced or minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 cups frozen corn
- 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, diced
- 2 tbsp adobo sauce
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese or creme fraiche
- 6 slices of Turkey Bacon
- 2 limes (optional for garnish)
- cilantro (optional for garnish)
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese
How to Make Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Heat a large saute pan over medium heat. Once hot:
1. Add olive oil or avocado oil.
2. Sauté the diced onion, poblano or jalapeno pepper, and garlic for about 3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; sauté for another few minutes to release their flavors.
4. Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In your slow cooker:
1. Add frozen corn, diced potatoes, chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, chicken breast, and chicken broth.
2. Mix everything well to ensure even distribution.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
Set your slow cooker on low heat:
1. Cook for 6–8 hours until the chicken is tender.
Step 4: Finish with Creaminess
In the last 30 minutes of cooking:
1. Stir in cream cheese or creme fraiche until melted and well combined.
Step 5: Prepare Turkey Bacon
While the soup finishes cooking:
1. Cook Turkey Bacon on the stovetop or in the oven until it reaches your desired crispiness.
Step 6: Serve It Up!
Once cooked:
1. Serve hot with crumbled Turkey Bacon on top.
2. Garnish with cotija cheese, fresh lime juice, and cilantro if desired.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste if needed!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup
Serving Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup can elevate your meal experience. This creamy soup pairs well with various toppings and sides, making it versatile for any occasion.
Toppings
- Turkey Bacon Crumbles: Crispy Turkey Bacon adds a smoky flavor and texture contrast to the soup.
- Cotija Cheese: Sprinkle this crumbly cheese on top for a salty bite that complements the sweetness of the corn.
- Fresh Lime Juice: A squeeze of lime brightens the flavors and enhances the overall taste of the soup.
- Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds an herbal note that balances the richness of the soup.
Accompaniments
- Tortilla Chips: Serve with crunchy tortilla chips for dipping or sprinkling on top for added crunch.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture that pairs beautifully with the soup’s creaminess.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or yogurt adds creaminess and tang, enhancing each spoonful.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup
To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will provide better flavor compared to frozen ones. Opt for fresh corn when in season.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more chipotle peppers or jalapeños based on your preference.
- Blend for Smoothness: If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender before serving to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 15 minutes after cooking helps meld flavors together for a richer taste.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Mexican Rice: This seasoned rice complements the soup’s flavors and adds heartiness. Try cooking it with broth instead of water for extra flavor.
- Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread offers a slightly sweet contrast and is perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Guacamole: This creamy dip adds richness and freshness, making it a great pairing with the spicy elements of the soup.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add a smoky flavor that complements the creamy soup nicely.
- Quesadillas: Cheese quesadillas make an excellent side; their gooey texture pairs well with the hearty soup.
- Chips and Salsa: A classic combo, adding chips with fresh salsa can provide delightful crunchiness alongside your warm bowl of soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup.
- Skipping the Sauté Step: Many people skip sautéing the onions and peppers, but this step enhances the flavor. Always take time to sauté them before adding to the slow cooker.
- Not Using Enough Liquid: If you don’t add enough broth, your soup may turn out too thick or dry. Ensure you measure the chicken broth accurately for a creamy texture.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting your soup before serving is crucial. Don’t hesitate to adjust salt and spices as needed for optimal flavor.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can lead to dryness. Aim for 6-8 hours on low, and check for doneness towards the end of cooking.
- Forgetting Garnishes: Garnishes like lime juice and cilantro elevate the dish. Always remember to add these fresh toppings just before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating to avoid condensation.
Freezing Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of the container, as soup expands when frozen.
Reheating Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup.
Can I make Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace chicken with beans or additional vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add more heat, consider using additional chipotle peppers or adding jalapeños. You can also include a dash of hot sauce before serving.
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh corn, you’ll need about 4 cups of kernels. Add them during the last hour of cooking for best results.
What should I serve with Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, a side salad, or even quesadillas for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different proteins or vegetables based on your preferences. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep! Give this easy recipe a try today!
Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup, a creamy and savory dish that captures the essence of traditional street corn right in your kitchen. This easy-to-make recipe requires minimal prep time and lets your slow cooker do all the work, resulting in a rich soup that’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. With vibrant ingredients like sweet corn, hearty potatoes, and tender chicken, this soup is a delightful crowd-pleaser. Top it off with crispy turkey bacon, cotija cheese, and fresh lime for an extra burst of flavor. Whether you’re serving it at family gatherings or enjoying it as a comforting weeknight meal, this soup will surely satisfy your cravings.
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 white onion, diced
- 1 poblano pepper or jalapeno pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, diced or minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 cups frozen corn
- 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, diced
- 2 tbsp adobo sauce
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese or creme fraiche
- 6 slices of Turkey Bacon
- 2 limes (optional for garnish)
- cilantro (optional for garnish)
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese
Instructions
- Sauté diced onion, poblano or jalapeño pepper, and minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until softened. Stir in chili powder and cumin for 2 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Transfer the sautéed mixture to a slow cooker. Add the frozen corn, diced potatoes, chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, chicken breast, and chicken broth. Mix well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours until the chicken is tender.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in cream cheese until melted and combined.
- Cook turkey bacon separately until crispy.
- Serve hot topped with crumbled turkey bacon, cotija cheese, fresh lime juice, and cilantro if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg