What To Know
- Creamy, comforting, and bursting with sweet corn flavor, cream of corn soup is a classic dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal or as a base for other soups and stews.
- Roast the corn kernels in the oven before adding them to the soup for a deeper flavor.
- Add a jalapeño pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick of heat.
Creamy, comforting, and bursting with sweet corn flavor, cream of corn soup is a classic dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal or as a base for other soups and stews. While canned versions are convenient, nothing beats the homemade version, which is surprisingly easy to make. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to make cream of corn soup that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Gathering Your Ingredients
To make a delicious cream of corn soup, you’ll need:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
Preparing the Corn
If using fresh corn, remove the kernels from the cob. If using frozen corn, thaw it before using.
Sautéing the Onion
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter or heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Adding the Corn and Broth
Stir in the corn kernels and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn bright yellow. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
Simmering and Pureeing
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the corn is tender. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a regular blender and puree until smooth.
Thickening the Soup
Return the pureed soup to the pot and add the flour. Whisk constantly until the soup thickens to your desired consistency. If the soup is too thick, add more broth; if it’s too thin, add more flour.
Adding the Cream
Stir in the heavy cream or milk. This will add a rich and creamy texture to the soup.
Seasoning to Taste
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of dried thyme or oregano for extra flavor.
Serving the Soup
Ladle the creamy corn soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Tips for a Perfect Cream of Corn Soup
- For a sweeter soup, use sweet corn kernels.
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender. Just be sure to work in batches and blend until smooth.
- To make a vegan version, use vegetable broth and plant-based milk or cream.
- Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or kidney beans for a protein-packed twist.
- For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
Variations on Cream of Corn Soup
- Roasted Corn Soup: Roast the corn kernels in the oven before adding them to the soup for a deeper flavor.
- Spicy Corn Soup: Add a jalapeño pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick of heat.
- Cheesy Corn Soup: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese for a creamy and cheesy twist.
- Corn and Potato Soup: Add diced potatoes to the soup for a thicker and more filling meal.
- Corn and Zucchini Soup: Use a combination of corn and zucchini for a refreshing and flavorful soup.
Information You Need to Know
- Can I make cream of corn soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup up to 3 days ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
- Can I freeze cream of corn soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What can I serve with cream of corn soup?
Cream of corn soup pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a salad.
