Creamy corn soup heaven: the ultimate guide to making corn soup with cream style corn

Indulge in the comforting embrace of a velvety corn soup, crafted with the sweet essence of cream style corn. This culinary masterpiece is a symphony of flavors, perfect for warming up on a chilly day or as a side to your favorite meal. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the effortless steps of creating this culinary delight, ensuring a delectable outcome every time.

Ingredients

• 1 can (14.5 ounces) cream style corn, undrained
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Veggies: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté the onion, celery, and carrots until softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the Corn: Stir in the cream style corn and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

3. Pour in the Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk until well combined.

4. Season to Taste: Add salt and black pepper to taste.

5. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

6. Puree (Optional): For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a regular blender and puree until desired smoothness is achieved.

7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Corn Soup

• Use Fresh Veggies: For the best flavor, use fresh onion, celery, and carrots.
• Don’t Overcook: Simmer the soup just until the vegetables are tender to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Add Spices: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of paprika, cumin, or chili powder.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try topping the soup with sour cream, chopped bacon, or diced tomatoes.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegan Corn Soup: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the cheese topping.
• Spicy Corn Soup: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick.
• Creamier Corn Soup: Add an extra 1/2 cup of cream style corn or 1/4 cup of heavy cream.
• Corn Chowder: Add diced potatoes and bacon to the soup for a hearty chowder.

Benefits of Corn Soup

Corn soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Corn contains antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health.
• Good Source of Fiber: Cream style corn provides a good source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
• Low in Calories: A bowl of corn soup is relatively low in calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Wrapping Up

Creating a delectable corn soup using cream style corn is an effortless endeavor that yields a comforting and flavorful dish. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone meal or a side, this versatile soup is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Experiment with different variations and toppings to create a soup that perfectly suits your taste buds.

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen corn instead of cream style corn?

A: Yes, you can use frozen corn. Thaw it first and then puree it before adding it to the soup.

Q: How do I store leftover corn soup?

A: Store leftover corn soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.