How to Make a Mexican Cilantro and Roasted Corn Soup
If you’re looking for a flavorful and comforting dish, a Mexican cilantro and roasted corn soup is an excellent choice. This vibrant soup combines the sweetness of roasted corn with the fresh and zesty notes of cilantro, resulting in a deliciously satisfying meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make this delightful soup at home.
Ingredients
- 4 cups corn, fresh or frozen
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, minced (optional for spice)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
1. Roast the Corn
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the corn evenly on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a little olive oil, season with salt, and roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the corn is slightly caramelized. This roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the corn.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and jalapeño pepper (if using), cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients
Add the roasted corn to the pot along with the ground cumin. Stir everything together for a minute to combine the flavors. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Blend the Soup
Once the soup has simmered for about 10 minutes, remove it from the heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. You can blend it completely smooth or leave some chunks for texture.
5. Add Cilantro and Lime
Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a splash of cream or coconut milk at this stage.
6. Serve
Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra cilantro, lime wedges, or even a dollop of sour cream. This soup pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for the Best Mexican Cilantro and Roasted Corn Soup
- For added depth of flavor, consider using smoked paprika in place of cumin.
- For a heartier version, add black beans or diced tomatoes.
- If you love more heat, feel free to add more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
This Mexican cilantro and roasted corn soup is not just a treat for your taste buds, but it’s also packed with nutrients and comforting warmth. Perfect for chilly nights or as a delicious starter for a gathering, this recipe is easy to whip up and sure to impress.