Discover the flavors of guam: how to cook authentic corn soup with guam tradition

Corn soup, a beloved dish in Guam, is a symphony of flavors that embodies the vibrant spirit of the island. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will empower you to recreate this culinary masterpiece in the comfort of your own home. So, let’s embark on this gastronomic adventure and learn how to make corn soup Guam style!

Ingredients:

• 6 ears of fresh corn, husked and kernels removed
• 1 large white onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons of butter
• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup of finely chopped cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Corn:

• Remove the kernels from the corn cobs using a sharp knife.
• Set aside the kernels in a large bowl.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

• Melt the butter in a large stockpot over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened and translucent.

3. Add the Corn and Broth:

• Pour the corn kernels into the stockpot and stir to combine with the aromatics.
• Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

4. Simmer:

• Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the corn is tender.

5. Puree the Soup:

• Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
• Return the pureed soup to the stockpot.

6. Add the Cream and Cheese:

• Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Garnish and Serve:

• Ladle the corn soup into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Corn Soup:

• For a sweeter soup, use sweet corn. For a more savory soup, use field corn.
• If you don’t have fresh corn, you can use frozen corn kernels. Just thaw them before using.
• Add a touch of spice by adding a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper.
• Serve the soup with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Variations:

• Crab Corn Soup: Add 1 cup of cooked crab meat to the soup.
• Shrimp Corn Soup: Add 1 cup of cooked shrimp to the soup.
• Vegetable Corn Soup: Add 1 cup of diced carrots, celery, and bell peppers to the soup.

Health Benefits of Corn Soup:

Corn soup is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It is a good source of:

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin A
• Folate
• Fiber
• Potassium

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make corn soup up to 3 days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

Q: Can I freeze corn soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze corn soup for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: Can I substitute milk for heavy cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute milk for heavy cream. However, the soup will be less rich and creamy.

Q: Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
A: Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This will make the soup vegetarian.

Q: How can I thicken the soup?
A: If you want a thicker soup, you can add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the soup before blending.