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Sopa De Elote

By Jennifer Adams | June 09, 2026
Sopa De Elote
Soups

Sopa De Elote

Prep20 min
Cook40 min
Total60 min
Serves4
Sopa De Elote
Warm Sopa De Elote

Sopa De Elote, or Mexican corn soup, is a staple of my childhood. Growing up in a Guadalajara family in San Antonio, I remember my grandmother making this soup for special occasions and family gatherings. The smell of roasted corn and onions would fill the house, and we'd all gather around the table to enjoy a warm, comforting bowl.

As I grew older, I began to appreciate the simplicity and elegance of this soup. It's a dish that's deeply rooted in Mexican culture, and yet, it's also incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a main course, a side dish, or even as a starter. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make.

In this recipe, I'll show you how to make authentic Sopa De Elote, just like my grandmother used to make. We'll start with the basics: roasted corn, onions, and garlic. Then, we'll add some chicken broth, cream, and a touch of cumin. Finally, we'll finish it off with some fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Mexican cuisine, or for anyone who's looking for a delicious and comforting soup. So, let's get started!

One of the things I love about Sopa De Elote is the way it brings people together. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering or a dinner party, this soup is sure to be a hit. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make in large quantities, so you can feed a crowd without breaking a sweat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
  • It's a great way to use up fresh corn and onions.
  • The soup is comforting and delicious, making it perfect for cold winter nights.
  • It's a versatile dish that can be served as a main course, side dish, or starter.
  • The recipe is easy to scale up or down, making it perfect for large or small gatherings.
  • It's a great way to introduce people to Mexican cuisine.
  • The soup is relatively healthy, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great Sopa De Elote is to start with high-quality ingredients. You want to use fresh, sweet corn, and flavorful onions and garlic. Then, you want to roast them in the oven until they're tender and lightly caramelized. This brings out the natural sweetness of the corn and adds a depth of flavor to the soup.

Another important factor is the ratio of corn to liquid. You want to use enough chicken broth to cover the corn, but not so much that the soup becomes too thin. And then, you want to add just enough cream to give it a rich, creamy texture.

Finally, the seasoning is crucial. You want to use a combination of cumin, salt, and pepper to give the soup a bold, savory flavor. And then, you want to finish it off with some fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice to add a bright, freshness to the dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Sopa De Elote, you'll need a few simple ingredients. First, you'll need some fresh corn, onions, and garlic. Then, you'll need some chicken broth, cream, and cumin. Finally, you'll need some fresh cilantro and lime juice to finish it off. You can find all of these ingredients at your local grocery store, and they're relatively inexpensive.

One of the most important ingredients in this recipe is the corn. You want to use fresh, sweet corn that's in season. If you can't find fresh corn, you can use frozen corn as a substitute. Just be sure to thaw it first and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

  • 4 cups (600g) fresh corn kernelsYou can use fresh or frozen corn for this recipe. If using frozen, thaw it first and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
  • 2 large onions, dicedYou want to use a sweet onion for this recipe, such as Vidalia or Maui. They have a naturally sweet flavor that will caramelize nicely when roasted.
  • 3 cloves garlic, mincedYou can use more or less garlic depending on your personal preference. Just be sure to mince it finely so it distributes evenly throughout the soup.
  • 2 cups (475ml) chicken brothYou can use low-sodium chicken broth for this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the amount of salt you add to the soup accordingly.
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy creamYou can use half-and-half or whole milk as a substitute for heavy cream. Just be sure to adjust the amount of cream you add to the soup accordingly, as it will affect the richness and texture of the final dish.
  • 1 tsp (5g) ground cuminYou can use more or less cumin depending on your personal preference. Just be sure to add it towards the end of cooking, as it can become bitter if it's cooked for too long.
  • 1/2 tsp (2g) saltYou can use more or less salt depending on your personal preference. Just be sure to taste the soup as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
  • 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepperYou can use more or less pepper depending on your personal preference. Just be sure to add it towards the end of cooking, as it can become bitter if it's cooked for too long.
  • 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh cilantroYou can use more or less cilantro depending on your personal preference. Just be sure to chop it finely so it distributes evenly throughout the soup.
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) lime juiceYou can use more or less lime juice depending on your personal preference. Just be sure to add it towards the end of cooking, as it can become bitter if it's cooked for too long.
Ingredients for Sopa De Elote

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy pot or Dutch ovenRoasting panImmersion blender or regular blenderWhiskMeasuring cups and spoonsInstant-read thermometer

How to Make Sopa De Elote

  1. 1
    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2
    Place the corn, onions, and garlic on a roasting pan and roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
  3. 3
    Remove the roasting pan from the oven and let it cool slightly.
  4. 4
    Transfer the roasted vegetables to a large heavy pot or Dutch oven and add the chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  5. 5
    Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the soup has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded together.
  6. 6
    Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until it's smooth.
  7. 7
    Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the soup has heated through and the cream has been fully incorporated.
  8. 8
    Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  9. 9
    Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice.
  10. 10
    Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional cilantro and lime wedges if desired.

Expert Tips

  • Use fresh, sweet corn for the best flavor.
  • Don't over-roast the vegetables, as this can make the soup bitter.
  • Adjust the amount of cream to your liking, depending on how rich and creamy you want the soup to be.
  • Add the cumin towards the end of cooking, as it can become bitter if it's cooked for too long.
  • Use an immersion blender to puree the soup, as this will help to create a smooth and creamy texture.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a bright and fresh flavor.
  • Serve with crusty bread or tortilla chips for a fun and filling snack.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not roasting the vegetables long enough, resulting in a lack of flavor and texture.
  • Over-roasting the vegetables, resulting in a bitter flavor.
  • Not adjusting the seasoning as needed, resulting in a soup that's too salty or too bland.
  • Not using enough cream, resulting in a soup that's too thin and watery.
  • Not pureeing the soup enough, resulting in a chunky and unappetizing texture.
  • Not garnishing with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, resulting in a lack of brightness and freshness in the flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Add some diced chicken or shrimp to make the soup more substantial.
  • Use different types of corn, such as frozen or canned, for a different flavor and texture.
  • Add some diced bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Use coconut milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a creamier and richer soup.
  • Add some heat with diced jalapenos or serrano peppers.
  • Use different types of broth, such as vegetable or beef, for a different flavor profile.
  • Add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a different flavor and aroma.

What to Serve With Sopa De Elote

Sopa De Elote is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. You can serve it as a main course, side dish, or starter. It's also a great option for a casual gathering or potluck.

Some ideas for serving Sopa De Elote include:

Serve with crusty bread or tortilla chips for a fun and filling snack.

Pair with a green salad or grilled chicken for a light and refreshing meal.

Use as a base for other soups, such as creamy tomato or butternut squash.

Serve with crusty bread or tortilla chipsPair with a green salad or grilled chickenUse as a base for other soups, such as creamy tomato or butternut squashAdd some diced chicken or shrimp for added proteinGarnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a bright and fresh flavor

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Sopa De Elote can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To refrigerate, let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.

To freeze, let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer. When you're ready to reheat, simply thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it over low heat until it's warm and creamy.

Reheating Sopa De Elote is easy. Simply heat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's warm and creamy. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause the soup to become too hot and watery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of corn is best for Sopa De Elote?

Fresh, sweet corn is the best type of corn for Sopa De Elote. You can use frozen or canned corn as a substitute, but fresh corn will give the best flavor and texture.

Can I make Sopa De Elote ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Sopa De Elote ahead of time. Simply prepare the soup according to the recipe, then let it cool to room temperature. Transfer the soup to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Can I add other ingredients to Sopa De Elote?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to Sopa De Elote. Some ideas include diced chicken or shrimp, diced bell peppers or zucchini, and fresh herbs such as parsley or basil. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning and cooking time as needed.

Is Sopa De Elote spicy?

No, Sopa De Elote is not spicy. However, you can add diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to give it a kick of heat if you prefer.

Can I serve Sopa De Elote as a main course?

Yes, you can serve Sopa De Elote as a main course. Simply add some crusty bread or tortilla chips on the side, and you've got a filling and satisfying meal.

Can I make Sopa De Elote in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make Sopa De Elote in a slow cooker. Simply prepare the soup according to the recipe, then transfer it to the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours.

Can I freeze Sopa De Elote?

Yes, you can freeze Sopa De Elote. Simply let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.

How do I reheat Sopa De Elote?

To reheat Sopa De Elote, simply heat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's warm and creamy. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause the soup to become too hot and watery.

The Full Recipe
Recipe Card
Sopa De Elote

Sopa De Elote

Make authentic Mexican Sopa De Elote with this easy recipe, featuring roasted corn, onions, and a touch of cream. Perfect for summer nights or special occasions.

Prep20 min
Cook40 min
Total60 min
Serves4
Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 cups (600g) fresh corn kernels
  • 2 large onions, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups (475ml) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 1 tsp (5g) ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp (2g) salt
  • 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper
  • 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) lime juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place the corn, onions, and garlic on a roasting pan and roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
  3. Remove the roasting pan from the oven and let it cool slightly.
  4. Transfer the roasted vegetables to a large heavy pot or Dutch oven and add the chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the soup has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded together.
  6. Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until it's smooth.
  7. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the soup has heated through and the cream has been fully incorporated.
  8. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  9. Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice.
  10. Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional cilantro and lime wedges if desired.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)

250Calories
10gProtein
30gCarbs
15gFat