Corn Soup

Singaporean Corn Soup with Cheese Recipe

Region / culture: Singapore | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Corn soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any time of year. This creamy soup is made with sweet corn kernels, chicken broth, light cream, and a touch of cheese for added richness. It is a simple and satisfying recipe that is sure to please the whole family.

History

Corn soup has been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. Corn, also known as maize, is a staple food in many parts of the world and has been used in a variety of dishes for thousands of years. Corn soup is a simple and versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients, making it a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike.

Ingredients

3 cups frozen whole kernel corn or 6 fresh ears of corn
1 and a half cups chicken broth
1 cup milk or light cream
Some black and red pepper
Half a cup crumbled cheese

How to prepare

If using fresh corn, cook it in boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes until tender.
Drain the corn, keeping the cooking water. If using canned corn, drain and keep the liquid.
Melt the margarine in a large saucepan and cook the onion until it is soft.
Sprinkle in the flour, mixing well.
Cook for a couple of minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove the pan from heat and slowly pour in the milk, stirring to achieve a smooth consistency.
Add the corn kernels, along with salt and pepper to taste, and about 0.5 cup of the reserved liquid.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, stirring as the mixture thickens.
Simmer for a few minutes. Serve hot.

Variations

Add diced potatoes or carrots for extra texture and flavor.
Stir in some cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To add extra flavor to your corn soup, try sautéing some diced bacon or pancetta before adding the onion.

- For a thicker soup, you can blend some of the corn kernels with the broth before adding them to the soup.

- To make a vegetarian version of this soup, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

- For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the soup.

Serving Suggestions

Corn soup can be served as a starter or as a main dish. It pairs well with a crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

To achieve a smooth consistency, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it reaches your desired texture.

- For a chunkier soup, simply mash some of the corn kernels with a fork before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this soup.

- Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the light cream for a richer soup.

Make Ahead Tips

Corn soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish your corn soup with a sprinkle of crumbled cheese and a dash of black pepper for a beautiful presentation. Serve the soup in individual bowls with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Pairing Recommendations

Corn soup pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving the soup with a glass of sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover corn soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of corn soup contains approximately 250 calories. Calories are a measure of the energy content of food, and are important for maintaining a healthy weight.

Carbohydrates

One serving of corn soup contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and are essential for overall health.

Fats

One serving of corn soup contains approximately 12 grams of fat. Fat is an essential nutrient that helps the body absorb vitamins and minerals, and provides a source of energy.

Proteins

One serving of corn soup contains approximately 8 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, and is an important component of a healthy diet.

Vitamins and minerals

Corn soup is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Corn soup contains dairy (cheese and cream) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. It may also contain gluten if flour is used as a thickening agent.

Summary

Corn soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying and comforting meal that is perfect for any time of year.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Corn Soup. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mary who lived in the countryside. Mary was known for her amazing cooking skills, and she had prepared a delicious meal for us that day.

As we sat down to eat, she brought out a steaming pot of golden yellow soup that smelled absolutely divine. I took my first spoonful and instantly fell in love with the rich, creamy texture and the burst of sweet corn flavor. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before.

"Mary, this soup is absolutely amazing! I must have the recipe," I exclaimed.

Mary smiled and said, "Oh, it's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations. I'd be happy to teach you how to make it."

And so, that day, Mary taught me the secrets of making the most delicious Corn Soup I had ever tasted. She showed me how to carefully cut the fresh corn kernels from the cob, how to simmer them in a flavorful broth, and how to blend them into a creamy, velvety soup.

Over the years, I have made this Corn Soup countless times for my family and friends, and it has become one of my signature dishes. The recipe has evolved and changed as I added my own twists and variations, but the essence of that original recipe from Mary has always remained.

I remember the joy on my grandchildren's faces as they eagerly slurped up their bowls of Corn Soup, just like I used to do when I first learned to make it. It warms my heart to pass down this recipe to the next generation, knowing that it will continue to bring comfort and joy to our family for years to come.

In addition to Mary's recipe, I have also learned new variations of Corn Soup from other friends and family members over the years. Each person has their own unique twist on this classic dish, whether it's adding a hint of spice, a touch of cream, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

One of my favorite variations comes from my dear friend Sarah, who hails from the South and adds a generous dollop of butter to her Corn Soup for an extra rich and indulgent flavor. Another friend, Emily, likes to add a handful of crispy bacon bits on top for a salty crunch that perfectly complements the sweet corn.

I have collected all of these different recipes and techniques in my trusty old recipe book, which is filled with stained and dog-eared pages that tell the stories of my culinary journey. Each recipe is a treasure trove of memories and experiences, reminding me of the people and places that have shaped my love for cooking.

As I sit here in my cozy kitchen, stirring a pot of Corn Soup on the stove, I can't help but feel grateful for the many wonderful recipes that have come into my life. From Mary's original recipe to the creative variations of my friends and family, each dish tells a story and carries a piece of my heart within it.

And so, as I ladle out steaming bowls of Corn Soup for my loved ones to enjoy, I know that these simple yet delicious recipes will continue to bring us together, nourish our bodies and souls, and create lasting memories that will be cherished for generations to come. In the end, it is not just about the food itself, but about the love, joy, and connection that it brings into our lives. And for that, I am truly grateful.