Get ready to warm up with a bowl of pure comfort with our Cream of Corn Soup recipe! This velvety soup is bursting with the sweet and savory flavors of corn, complemented by the richness of heavy cream and the subtle heat of chili oil. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening or looking for a delicious starter for your next dinner party, this soup is sure to impress. So let’s dive into the world of creamy goodness and discover how to make this delightful soup from scratch!
Ingredients:
Produce:
- 2 cups Corn, canned whole kernel
- 3 Shallots, medium
Canned Goods:
- 3 1/4 cups Vegetable broth
Baking & Spices:
- 1 pinch Cayenne pepper
- 1/8 tsp Chili oil
- Sea salt, to taste
Oils & Vinegars:
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
Dairy:
- 3/4 cup Heavy cream
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced shallots to the pot and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the canned corn kernels and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, season with a pinch of cayenne pepper and sea salt to taste, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let the soup cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the corn to soften.
- Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
- Return the soup to the pot over low heat and stir in the heavy cream and chili oil. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated through.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or cayenne pepper to taste.
- Once heated through and seasoned to perfection, ladle the Cream of Corn Soup into bowls and serve hot.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added texture and flavor, garnish each bowl of soup with a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or crispy bacon bits.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of white wine vinegar to brighten the flavors of the soup.
- Experiment with different spices and herbs such as smoked paprika, thyme, or cumin for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use fresh corn instead of canned corn?
A: Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels can be used in place of canned corn for a fresher and more vibrant flavor. Simply use about 4-5 ears of corn, husked and kernels removed, and cook them with the shallots before adding the vegetable broth.
Q: Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?
A: Yes, this Cream of Corn Soup is vegetarian-friendly as it uses vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It’s a perfect option for vegetarians looking for a comforting and satisfying soup.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if needed to adjust the consistency.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace the corn with diced zucchini or cauliflower florets for a lower carb option.
- Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream to reduce the carb content while adding a subtle coconut flavor.
- Skip the chili oil and use extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce to add heat without adding carbs.
Low-Carb Version:
- Substitute the corn with diced bell peppers or broccoli florets for a lower carb alternative.
- Use half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk instead of heavy cream to reduce the carb count while still maintaining creaminess.
- Omit the chili oil and cayenne pepper if desired, or use a small amount of diced jalapeños for a milder heat.
In conclusion, Cream of Corn Soup is a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for warming up on chilly days or serving as a flavorful starter for any meal. With its velvety texture, rich flavor, and subtle heat, this soup is sure to please even the pickiest of palates. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or as an elegant appetizer at your next gathering, Cream of Corn Soup is a versatile and delicious addition to any menu. So gather your ingredients, whip up a batch of this delightful soup, and savor the comforting goodness with every spoonful!
