This recipe is one of my summer favorites. The last of the fresh summer corn is available in better markets, but not for long! Suggest trying this soup recipe in the next few weeks using the fresh corn for an unbelievable sweet and smokey flavor.
Remember, for corn, freshness means staying cool, since warmth converts the sugar in the kernels into starch. In the supermarket, corn should be displayed on ice or in a refrigerated bin. At a farmers’ market, it should be kept at least in the shade, and preferably on ice. Shop early in the day for the best selection of locally grown corn. Ideally, it should have been picked the morning you buy it. The corn should not be piled high in the bin, or it will generate its own heat, and hasten the conversion of sugar to starch.
And remember, if you miss the fresh corn, frozen is the next best option.
To Roast the Poblano Chiles: To remove the skins from poblano chiles, place them over a gas flame on the stove top or grill (pictured), or under a broiler, turning frequently until they are completely charred. Place them in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Allow them to steam for 10 – 15 minutes to loosen the skins. Remove the blackened skins with the fingers, and open to remove the seeds, pod and stem. The flesh can them be chopped to add to the recipe.
Equipment: As a professional chef, I am not a cooking equipment snob, but know what I like. Over the years I have discovered that I can produce more with less, and have downsized keeping only the most useful tools. I highly value great cookware, knives and small electrics. You can ask and I will share my recommendations over time. For this recipe, you need a very good blender. I suggest the Vitamix. This tool can be costly, but worth the investment. Why? The power of this machine has the ability to pulverize anything that you place in it. Which means, you don’t have to worry about skins, seeds, (and silk from the corn), as it is all puréed to a smooth, creamy texture. All of the essential important fiber is maintained, but is not gritty and doesn’t require the soup to be strained. And, this machine is perfect for making smoothies for nutrient-rich results!
Vitamix machines are available at local kitchenware stores, Amazon, Costco (which has a special sale every year) and at my partner East Bay Restaurant Supply at Jack London Square (mentioned Epicurean Exchange and they may offer a discount). This goes for all purchases at this location. Happy shopping and cooking!
Corn and Roasted Poblano Soup
4 cups whole milk (best, or you can use reduced fat milk)
1 tablespoon cumin seeds
1 bay leaf
Sprig of fresh rosemary
2 tablespoons butter
1 onion, cut into 1/4-inch dice
Big pinch of kosher salt
4 cloves garlic minced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
5 ears fresh corn, shucked and silk removed
3 medium poblano chilies, roasted, peeled, seeded and diced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Reserve 2 tablespoons corn and 2 tablespoons roasted chiles, for garnish
• Combine the milk, cumin seeds, bay leaf and rosemary in a medium saucepan. Place over low heat and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and let rest for 20 minutes to infuse flavors.
• Heat butter in another medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions, and sauté until golden brown, 10 – 12 minutes. Add the garlic and ground cumin and cook, stirring frequently, for 3 minutes more. Add the corn kernels and diced chiles and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
• Strain the milk through a fine mesh strainer into the corn and chili mixture. Purée in a blender, in batches, until smooth. Pass each batch through a fine-mesh strainer into a large bowl. Return strained soil to the pot. Re-heat to warm, but do not boil. Season to taste with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
• Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with reserved corn and chilies and a drizzle of olive oil.
Serves 4
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