A Delicious Journey: Elote Soup

Introduction

As a fan of vibrant flavors and hearty dishes, I recently made Elote Soup for my family, and it was an instant hit! Inspired by the beloved Mexican street food known as elote, this soup captures the essence of grilled corn with a comforting twist. My family loved the creamy texture and the delightful blend of spices, and it quickly became a favorite in our household. The combination of the rich vegan crema and the toppings made each bowl feel like a festive celebration. If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful dish, this Elote Soup will not disappoint!

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 package (160 grams) frozen roasted corn, thawed
• 2 ribs diced celery
• 1 medium diced onion
• 4 cups vegan chicken broth
• 2 cups plant milk
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ancho chili powder
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Tajín seasoning
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Crema:

• 1/2 cup vegan sour cream
• 1/3 cup vegan mayo
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• Salt to taste

For Serving:

• Vegan cotija cheese
• Lime wedges
• Chopped cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños
• Tortilla strips

Instructions

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and celery, and sauté for about 5-8 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
2. Add Spices and Corn: Stir in the garlic, thawed corn, dried oregano, ancho chili powder, and Tajín seasoning. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Simmer: Pour in the vegan chicken broth and plant milk. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for about 25 minutes, allowing the corn to soften and the flavors to develop.
4. Blend: Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, blend about half of the soup until smooth. This will give the soup a creamy texture while retaining some of the whole corn for added bite.
5. Reheat: Add the blended portion back into the pot and heat the soup through, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a generous dollop of crema. Garnish with vegan cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and tortilla strips for added crunch.
7. Enjoy!: This Elote Soup is a flavorful and satisfying vegan dish that captures the essence of Mexican street corn.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4-6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 220 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

How to Serve

• Bowls: Serve the soup in individual bowls for a comforting presentation.
• Crema: Drizzle the crema generously on top.
• Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings, including:
• Vegan cotija cheese
• Lime wedges
• Chopped cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños
• Crunchy tortilla strips

Additional Tips

1. Corn Choice: If fresh corn is in season, use it instead of frozen for an even sweeter flavor.
2. Blending Options: Adjust the blending step according to your texture preference—blend more for a creamier soup, or less for a chunkier one.
3. Spice Level: Customize the heat by adding more jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce if desired.
4. Creaminess: For a richer soup, consider adding a splash of coconut cream or cashew cream.
5. Storage: This soup keeps well in the fridge, so make a double batch for easy meals throughout the week.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Elote Soup: Add diced jalapeños during the sautéing step for a spicier kick.
• Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a fresh flavor twist.
• Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika for a subtle smoky taste reminiscent of grilled corn.
• Cheesy Twist: Mix in a handful of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Creamy Avocado: Blend in ripe avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Bread: Serve with crusty bread or corn tortillas on the side for a hearty meal.
• Salad Side: A simple green salad with a lime vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
• Themed Dinner: Create a Mexican-themed dinner night by serving the soup alongside tacos or quesadillas.
• Garnish Variety: Offer a selection of garnishes so guests can customize their soup to their liking.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Elote soup freezes well; store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of plant milk if the soup thickens too much.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

• Yes! Fresh corn will add a sweeter flavor and is perfect if it’s in season.

1. Is this soup gluten-free?

• Yes, as long as you use gluten-free vegan mayo and ensure the broth is gluten-free.

1. How can I make this soup spicier?

• Add more jalapeños or include a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

1. Can I make the crema ahead of time?

• Absolutely! The crema can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

1. What plant milk works best?

• Almond, oat, or soy milk are great options, but use your favorite plant milk for the best flavor.

1. Can I substitute the vegan chicken broth?

• Yes, you can use vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.

1. What can I use instead of vegan sour cream?

• You can substitute with cashew cream or plain non-dairy yogurt for a similar texture.

1. How do I thicken the soup?

• You can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to thicken it, or blend more of the soup.

1. Is this recipe nut-free?

• Yes, if you use a nut-free plant milk and vegan mayo, the soup can be made nut-free.

1. How can I make this recipe lower in calories?
   • Reduce the amount of avocado oil and use a lighter plant milk to lower the calorie count.

Conclusion

Elote Soup is a delightful, comforting dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn to your kitchen. With its creamy texture, rich spices, and a variety of toppings, it’s perfect for any occasion—from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings. This vegan twist on a classic will not only satisfy your taste buds but also warm your heart. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering, this soup is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. So grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a bowl of deliciousness!

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