Seweryn Dominsky
This vibrant and comforting Mehiška Juha captures the soulful essence of Mexican cuisine, offering a medley of flavors as rich as its cultural origins. Legend has it that this dish was inspired by Mexican corn farmers who sought to create a hearty meal from their bountiful harvest. With every spoonful, you are transported to a sun-drenched Mexican village, surrounded by the lively hues and sounds of traditional markets.
Mehiška Juha is a blend of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and zesty spices, slowly simmered to create a dish that’s both nourishing and invigorating. The soup invites a symphony of flavors into your palate: sweet corn mingling with the tangy zestiness of tomatoes, all harmonized by a hint of spicy kick. Perfect for cold evenings or when you crave a taste of adventure, this soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or tortilla chips. Enjoy it solo or as an inviting starter to a full Mexican feast.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked black beans (optional for added richness)
– 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional for heat)
– 1 lime, juiced
– Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
– Sour cream or yogurt for serving
Instructions
1. Warm the Oil: In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Allow it to heat up until it shimmers.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the pot. Sprinkle with ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Sear each side until it’s lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Add Vegetables: Toss in the diced bell pepper and corn kernels. Stir everything together, allowing the vegetables to soak up the spices.
5. Create the Soup Base: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. If using, add the cooked black beans and diced jalapeño. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
6. Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
7. Finish with Lime: Remove the chicken breasts from the pot, shred them using two forks, and return the shredded meat to the soup. Stir in the lime juice for a fresh, tangy finish.
8. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for added creaminess, if desired.
Cooking Tips
– Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and jalapeño to control the heat level to your liking.
– Make it Vegetarian: Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini or squash, and use vegetable broth instead.
– Thickening the Soup: For a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans against the pot or add a spoonful of cornmeal while simmering.
Pairing Suggestions
Serve Mehiška Juha with warm tortillas or a side of guacamole for a complete Mexican-inspired meal. A refreshing berry-flavored agua fresca or a tangy margarita would complement this dish beautifully, enhancing its vibrant notes.
Why Everyone’s Talking About Mehiška Juha: Secrets and Surprises Revealed!
The charm of Mehiška Juha lies not just in its delightful palette of ingredients but also in its intriguing backstory and unexpected benefits. While the soup resonates with the essence of Mexican tradition, did you know that it’s also a cornerstone of dietary mindfulness?
Nutritional Powerhouse: Originating as a staple for Mexican corn farmers, Mehiška Juha is not only about flavor but also nutrition. It offers a low-calorie, high-protein meal that’s rich in fiber from corn and beans. This makes it a perfect choice for those seeking a hearty yet healthy dish that delights the senses without guilt.
Cultural Enigma: This soup’s simplicity is its allure, but it’s also a symbol of adaptability. Many Mexican households have their unique versions, infusing regional twists. It’s common to find variations that include avocado, local herbs, or even cheese, showcasing Mexico’s diverse culinary landscape.
Controversies and Questions:
1. Is it really Mexican? Despite the name, some argue the soup is a global culinary creation, borrowing techniques from different cuisines. Its name in Slovenian, “Mehiška Juha,” adds to this international flair.
2. Can it be over-spiced? Achieving the right balance of spice is crucial. Too much chili can overpower the subtle flavors, while too little may not do justice to its Mexican roots.
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