20-Minutes Chinese Corn Soup (A Popular Appetizer)

by Julia
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August 7, 2023

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Dive into the silky-smooth embrace of our Chinese Corn Soup, a delicate symphony of sweet and savory notes. Begin by simmering golden kernels of corn in a rich, aromatic chicken broth, transforming the liquid into a creamy nectar. Swirl in beaten eggs, creating delicate ribbons of texture and flavor. Season with a touch of soy and a sprinkle of white pepper, balancing the symphony of tastes. Garnish with fresh scallions, adding a pop of color and brightness. Each spoonful promises a comforting journey through the flavors of China, capturing the essence of simplicity and delight. Enjoy this heartwarming bowl of culinary harmony, where every sip is a moment to savor.

A delicate blend of East meets West, Chinese Corn Soup captures the heart with its enchanting simplicity. Each bowl comes alive, teaming with the sweetness of fresh corn, immersed in a velvety broth that caresses the taste buds.

This dish, a cherished gem from China’s vast culinary treasure trove, boasts a rich heritage, marrying humble ingredients to create magic in your mouth.

While the fusion of corn and traditional Chinese spices may appear uncomplicated, it unravels complex layers of taste that surprise and delight with every spoonful.

A joy to prepare, it brings families together around the stove, stirring up warmth and memories. Served hot, it soothes the soul on the chilliest of nights yet effortlessly shines as a comforting staple in the summer.

The Chinese Corn Soup more than a dish, it’s a timeless tale of tradition and flavor, a culinary voyage awaiting your exploration. Embrace this journey, one spoonful at a time.

What Is Chinese Corn Soup?

Chinese Corn Soup is a popular appetizer in Chinese cuisine. It’s a harmonious blend of sweet corn, typically creamed corn, and a rich, savory chicken broth. It often includes additional ingredients like egg whites, giving it a unique, silky texture, and green onions for a fresh, vibrant flavor.

It’s known for its delightful contrast between the corn’s sweetness and the broth’s savory depth. This soup is light yet satisfying, often enjoyed as a warm start to a meal or a comforting dish in its own right.

Each spoonful is a culinary journey, encapsulating the essence of simple, authentic Chinese cooking.

Can You Vary The Chinese Corn Soup With Other Ingredients?

Chinese Corn Soup can be adapted to fit various dietary preferences:

Vegan Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. Use a vegan butter substitute or oil, and skip the egg. For added protein, tofu cubes or peas can be incorporated.
Vegetarian Follow the vegan variant but feel free to include the egg for added protein and that traditional “egg-drop” texture.
Gluten-Free Use a gluten-free flour alternative like cornstarch or arrowroot powder as a thickening agent. Check the label of your cream-style corn to ensure it’s gluten-free.
Paleo Replace cream-style corn with fresh or frozen corn puree to avoid added sugars or preservatives. Substitute all-purpose flour with arrowroot powder or tapioca flour, and use ghee instead of butter.
Keto While corn is typically high in carbs, a keto variant can use a smaller amount of corn for flavor and bulk up the soup with keto-friendly veggies like broccoli or cauliflower. Use heavy cream to achieve creaminess and xanthan gum as a low-carb thickener.
Whole30 Follow the Paleo version, but make sure all your ingredients, especially the broth and cream-style corn, comply with Whole30 guidelines (i.e., no sugars, grains, legumes, or dairy).

Recipe Directions

Begin by placing the chicken broth and the corn in a large saucepan. Heat over medium flame until the mixture begins to boil, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Meanwhile, grab a separate skillet. Melt the butter over medium-low heat.
Into the skillet, add the chopped celery and onion. Cook, stirring regularly, until they become tender. This process should take about 5 minutes.
Next, incorporate the flour into the vegetable mix. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes, which will remove the raw taste from the flour.
Transfer the vegetable-flour mixture into the simmering saucepan. Whisk it in carefully to avoid forming lumps. Now, sprinkle in the ground nutmeg and stir the soup.
Allow the soup to return to a simmer, intensifying its flavors.
In a separate bowl, whisk an egg until it’s thoroughly beaten. Slowly pour in the beaten egg as you stir the simmering soup in a clockwise circular motion.
Stir the egg lightly through the soup with a fork, which will produce delicate strands of egg throughout.
Finally, serve your soup hot, with a sprinkle of fresh black pepper on top for an added kick. Enjoy this comforting dish!

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Chinese Corn Soup embraces versatility. Adapt to your preference with these twists:

Add Proteins: Toss in shredded chicken or diced tofu for a protein boost. Crab meat adds a touch of luxury.
Go Green: Spinach, bok choy, or peas introduce vibrant color and added nutrition.
Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can heat things up.
Extra Crunch: Top with crispy wonton strips or roasted nuts for a contrast in texture.
Aromatic Garnish: Freshly chopped green onions, cilantro, or a splash of sesame oil can elevate the flavor.
Seafood Variation: Use a seafood broth and add prawns or scallops for a marine twist.
Mushroom Medley: Sautéed shiitake or cremini mushrooms bring earthy flavors.

Can I Make Chinese Corn Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

You can adapt the Chinese Corn Soup recipe for both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot. Here’s how:

Slow Cooker

Combine all ingredients except the egg and butter in the slow cooker.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, melt butter in a pan, add flour to create a roux, then stir it into the soup to thicken.
Stir the soup clockwise before serving and slowly drizzle in the beaten egg to create egg strands.

Instant Pot

Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Melt the butter, add celery and onion, and sauté until tender.
Stir in the flour to form a roux, then slowly whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps.
Add the cream-style corn and nutmeg.
Seal the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 10 minutes, then quick release.
Turn back to sauté mode. Stir the soup in a clockwise direction and slowly drizzle in the beaten egg to create egg strands.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

The choice largely depends on your personal preference, time, and cooking style.

Store-Bought Broth

This option is convenient and saves time. Opt for low-sodium versions to control your soup’s salt level when purchasing. Also, try to choose a high-quality brand that doesn’t contain artificial preservatives or flavorings for a healthier choice.

Homemade Broth

Making your own broth allows complete control over the flavor and salt content. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken bones and vegetable scraps. While it takes longer, homemade broth often produces a richer, deeper flavor.

How To Serve?

Serving Chinese Corn Soup can be elevated with a few simple touches:

Bowls: Use deep, wide bowls to serve the soup. This allows room for the soup to breathe and showcases the beautiful ingredients.
Garnish: Use a light garnish of fresh herbs like cilantro or chives. A drizzle of sesame oil can add an extra layer of flavor and aroma.
Accompaniments: Pair the soup with steamed rice or warm, crusty bread for a complete meal. It can also be a starter for a larger Chinese meal, accompanied by dishes like stir-fried vegetables or sweet and sour chicken.
Serving Temperature: Serve the soup hot. Keeping the soup warm until serving time ensures the best flavor and experience.
Utensils: Traditional Chinese soup spoons can enhance the dining experience. Regular soup spoons work well too.

Perfect Side Dishes

Steamed Rice: A staple in Chinese cuisine, steamed rice is a simple yet filling side that can absorb the soup’s flavors.
Spring Rolls: Crispy, crunchy spring rolls offer a nice contrast in texture to the smooth, creamy soup.
Chinese Green Salad: A refreshing salad with ingredients like lettuce, cucumber, and a soy sauce-based dressing can balance the warm, rich soup.
Steamed Dumplings: Another classic Chinese dish, steamed dumplings, can make the meal more hearty.
Garlic Bread: For a fusion twist, serve with garlic bread for dipping in the soup.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich: For non-traditional pairing, a simple grilled chicken sandwich can complement the soup for a full, satisfying meal.

Storage & Make Ahead

Refrigeration: Store leftover Chinese Corn Soup in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain its original texture.
Freezing: While Chinese Corn Soup can be frozen, it’s recommended to freeze the broth separately from ingredients like corn and chicken. This prevents the vegetables from becoming mushy. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Make Ahead: Prepare the soup base ahead by cooking the broth and seasoning. Refrigerate the base for up to 24 hours. Before serving, bring it to a simmer and add fresh corn and other ingredients.
Add Ingredients Last Minute: Hold off on adding delicate items such as fresh green onions and corn until just before serving. This ensures they maintain their crunch and vibrant color.
Flavor Development: Allowing the soup to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving enhances the melding of flavors and creates a more robust taste.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

Leftover Chinese Corn Soup can be put to use in a variety of ways:

Quick Meal: Reheat for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. It can be served as is or with some freshly cooked rice or noodles for a fuller meal.
Stir-fry Base: Use the soup as a base for a stir-fry. Add your choice of protein and veggies, then cook until heated through.
Sauce: Thicken the soup with a bit of cornstarch and use it as a sauce over steamed vegetables or grilled chicken.
Rice Flavoring: Mix the soup with cooked rice for an easy, flavorful side dish.
Frittata Filling: Add the soup to a frittata or scrambled eggs for a twist on breakfast.

TIPS

Sweet & Spicy Elixir: Elevate your Chinese Corn Soup by adding a teaspoon of sweet chili sauce. The contrasting flavors create a delightful sweet and spicy fusion.
Egg Ribbon Magic: Create delicate egg ribbons by slowly pouring beaten eggs into the hot soup while stirring continuously. This adds both texture and visual appeal.
Ginger Zing: Infuse a burst of freshness by finely grating ginger into the soup. Its zesty notes complement the sweetness of corn, enhancing the overall flavor.
Crunchy Texture Twist: Toss in a handful of crispy fried noodles just before serving for a satisfying crunch that transforms the soup experience.
Green Onion Elegance: Garnish with thinly sliced green onions to add a subtle oniony freshness, providing a perfect finishing touch to your Chinese Corn Soup.