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Spicy Jamaican Corn Soup

January 12, 2024
Shanika | Orchids + Sweet Tea

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Get ready to spice up your soup game with our Spicy Jamaican Corn Soup! Loaded with vibrant flavors and a hint of scotch bonnet peppers, this one-pot wonder brings the taste of Jamaica to your bowl---Ready in just 30 minutes!

Spicy Jamaican Corn Soup

Ready to turn up the heat? Our Spicy Jamaican Corn Soup recipe is a flavor explosion--- featuring bell peppers, hearty potatoes, garlic, the fiery kick of scotch bonnet + juicy corn on the cobs, all coming together to create a burst of Jamaican flavors with every spoonful. And the best part? It's not just delicious; it's hearty + made entirely from scratch. What's not to love? Vegan + Slow Cooker option.

Corn soup in a yellow bowl with a spoon.

Taking it back to my Jamaican roots is my go-to when I'm in the mood for comforting and cozy meals. And let's be real, what screams comfort more than a good ol' bowl of soup, am I right? Haha! By the way, if you're curious, I've got a list of 22 Jamaican Foods that you absolutely need to try next!

I'm totally in love with this Spicy Jamaican Corn Soup, and not just because it's crazy tasty, but it's also a breeze to whip up—30 minutes, and you're good to go! Personally, I opt for bone broth to amp up the nutritional benefits, but hey, there's also the option to go completely vegan with a vegetable stock if that's more your style!

If you're curious about Jamaican cooking, be sure to explore more on my recent favorites—Plant-based Jamaican Oxtail, Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken, and Creamy Jamaican Rasta Pasta. Also, check out my go-to list of 10 Ingredients to Always Have for Jamaican Dishes. And, of course, for those colder seasons or if you're feeling a bit under the weather, here's a handy list of Jamaican Herbs to Keep On Hand.

Jump to:
Ingredients on a black table.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Jamaican Corn Soup

  • Bold flavors—Savory + spicy marry so well together!
  • Easy to make + perfect for a weeknight meal option.
  • Simple ingredients.
  • Completely meal-prep friendly!
  • Great vegan option for everyone!
  • And just absolutely wholesome and perfect for any kind of weather.
Chopped corn in a brown bowl on a black table.

How To Make Spicy Jamaican Corn Soup

Creating this wholesome one-pot corn soup is a breeze! Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then toss in all your veggies and broth. Let it simmer until the potatoes and corn reach that perfect tender-but-not-mushy goodness. It's really that simple!

Ingredients

Spicy Corn Soup

  • Extra virgin olive oil. You can also use Avocado oil, Grapeseed oil or coconut oil as well.
  • Organic low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock. Forms the hearty base of the soup; can be substituted with vegetable stock or water---or opt for bone broth for an extra boost of nutrition!
  • Corn on the cobs. Chopped into mini sizes-- Infuses sweet and juicy corn kernels, adding texture + flavor.
  • Red onion. Substitute with yellow or white if that’s what you have.
  • Garlic cloves. I prefer fresh, but you could substitute with 1 Tablespoon garlic powder in a pinch for a bold flavor.
  • Bell peppers. You can also use 2 cups of mini sweet peppers chopped.
  • Fresh thyme sprigs: Infuses earthy notes throughout the dish. You can use dried if you don't have fresh available!
  • Scotch bonnet peppers. Chopped or slit on the sides (adjust for spice preference, using habanero peppers if needed)
  • Irish potatoes. You can also substitute with Yukon or Russet potatoes.
  • Sea salt + Black pepper: Enhances the flavors.
  • Smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky + slightly sweet flavor.
  • Garlic powder: Intensifies the garlic flavor for depth.
  • Dried parsley: A mild herbal note to balance the other flavors.
  • Red pepper flakes (optional): Provides an extra layer of heat for those who enjoy spice!

SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR COOKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS SOUP!

Here, I’ve curated a list of cooking + baking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite baked goods or cooked meals, especially with this Spicy Jamaican Corn Soup recipe. Everything from my fave baking sheet, liners, immersion hand-blender, mixing bowls, and more. SEE THEM HERE!

Two bowls of soup on a black table with a spoon and veggies.

Tips For Making Good Soup Every Time

Now, if you're intimidated by making soup or are concerned that it won't turn out as delicious, no worries. In my experience with making many different types of soup and watching the adults around me make a TON of soup (it's a staple in the Jamaican culture), I've learned a few things along the way that can help you make really good soup, including this Spicy Jamaican Soup:

  • Chop your veggies and ingredients into bite-sized pieces for greater ease when eating.
  • ALWAYS sauté your veggies, especially the garlic, onions, etc.
  • Make your own stock if you can or use water as your base with seasonings + herbs for a great taste. If using store-bought stock/broth, always purchase high-quality ones.
  • Let it simmer. While you might be tempted to cook your soup on high for a faster cook time, it's definitely BEST to let everything simmer and allow the flavors to "fuse" together slowly.
  • If using meat, always sear your meat in the pot first prior to adding it to the soup to cook the rest of the way.
  • If adding dairy or an alternative, always stir it in last or during the final few minutes.
  • To thicken (if needed), always mix your thickener (flour, arrowroot, starch, etc.) in a small bowl with some of the hot broth from your soup before adding it to the entire pot of soup. This prevents lumps and gives you a nice creaminess.

What Can I Add to This Corn Soup?

I like to add some extra texture to soups like this Spicy Jamaican Corn Soup. While the ingredients in this soup are perfect as is, I wanted to share a few more ideas of ingredients that you can add in case you make this soup more than once and want to switch things up!

Other ingredient ideas include:

Two bowls of corn soup with spoons.

What Is The Best Stock/Broth To Use In This Soup?

The best stock or broth for this soup depends on your preference + dietary choices. Personally, I love using homemade or store-bought bone broth or for its rich flavor and nutritional benefits. The bone broth adds a depth of richness and provides additional nutrients. Chicken stock is also a great option. If you're looking for a vegetarian or vegan option vegetable stock is a flavorful base for the soup without compromising on taste!

Spicy Jamaican Corn Soup Q + A's

How to store Jamaican soup?

Leftovers can be stored in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, for optimal freshness.

Can I freeze corn soup?

Absolutely! It can also be frozen for 4-6 months. To defrost, simply place soup in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature before reheating on the stovetop to serve.

Can I make this Jamaican soup recipe in a slow cooker?

To make this soup in the slow cooker, simply sauté garlic, onions, and bell peppers, before adding everything into your slow cooker and cooking on a low setting for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally. 

Should I add turmeric?

While adding turmeric is optional, it definitely has benefits: powerful medicinal properties, natural anti-inflammatory ingredients and increases antioxidant activity in the body, and more. You can add 1 teaspoon turmeric + additional ⅛ teaspoon black pepper to the mix.

How can I make this Jamaican soup recipe vegan?

Simply opt for a vegan vegetable broth/stock for the base. All other ingredients are already vegan!

Up close shot of bowls of corn soup with a spoon and pepper sauce.

Comforting Soup Recipes to Try Next!

If you're in the mood for more soup-season goodness and enjoyed this Spicy Jamaican Corn Soup recipe, these should definitely be your 'make next' list!

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried this Spicy Jamaican Corn Soup recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea! I love hearing from you!

Corn soup in a wooden bowl with a spoon.

Spicy Jamaican Corn Soup

January 12, 2024
5 from 1 vote
Ready to turn up the heat? Our Spicy Jamaican Corn Soup is a flavor explosion--- featuring bell peppers, hearty potatoes, garlic, the fiery kick of scotch bonnet + juicy corn on the cobs, all coming together to create a burst of Jamaican flavors with every spoonful. in every spoonful.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

SOUP:

  • 2 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil
  • 5 cups organic chicken or veggie stock, low-sodium (You can sub with vegetable stock or water, if desired)
  • 2-3 corn on the cobs, chopped into mini sizes
  • 1 red onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 bell peppers, chopped (You can also use 2 cups of mini sweet peppers chopped)
  • handful of fresh thyme sprigs
  • 2-3 scotch bonnet peppers, chopped or slit on the sides (You can also use habanero peppers; Reduce amount for less spicy flavor, if needed )
  • 3 Irish potatoes, peeled + cubed into medium chunks (You can sub with Yukon or Russet potatoes)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

TO MAKE THE SOUP:

  • In a dutch oven pot over medium-high heat, add 2 Tbsps olive oil until heated. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 1-2 minutes.
  • Add the chopped bell peppers followed by: the salt, black pepper, parsley, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and garlic powder, and stir together until combined and veggies are coated.
  • Add in the stock, corn cobs, potatoes, thyme sprigs, and scotch bonnet peppers, stirring everything together until combined. Bring everything to a boil.
  • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the veggies (potatoes + corn) are fully tender + cooked through. Add additional salt, to taste if necessary.
  • Remove from heat and serve immediately into prepared bowl(s) and enjoy with a side of crackers or bread, if desired.
  • Bon Appetit!

Tips & Tricks

  • STORAGE: Leftovers can be stored in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, for optimal freshness. Can also be frozen for 4-6 months. To defrost, simply place soup in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature before re-heating on the stove top to serve.
  • BONE BROTH: Bone broth has incredible health benefits which include: immune boosting properties, good for digestion + gut health, joint health, etc.; However, if you'd like to make this soup vegan----be sure to omit the bone broth and sub with additional veggie stock.
  • SLOW COOKER OPTION: To make this soup in the slow cooker, simply sauté garlic, onions, and bell peppers, before adding everything into your slow cooker and cooking on a low setting for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally. 
  • SPICES/HERBS: If desired, you can reduce the amounts slightly. Please know that this recipe is bold in spice/herb flavor, so feel free to adjust based on your tastebuds.
  • TURMERIC: While adding turmeric is optional, it definitely has benefits: powerful medicinal properties, natural anti-inflammatory ingredient, increases antioxidant activity in the body, and more. You can add 1 teaspoon turmeric + additional ⅛ teaspoon black pepper to the mix.
  • OTHER VEGGIES: If you'd like to switch things up, you can add additional veggies to your soup like kale, spinach, Bok choy, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, pumpkin, carrots, etc.

Nutrition

Calories: 207kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 1020mg | Potassium: 525mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 2196IU | Vitamin C: 80mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 1mg

DID YOU MAKE THIS recipe?

Tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea

Xx, Shanika in script writing

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