Jalapeno Velvet Warmth

Experience the delightful blend of creamy richness and vibrant flavor with our sensational Cream of Jalapeno Soup! Far less spicy than you might anticipate, this velvety smooth soup is a culinary masterpiece that promises to become a new favorite. Perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying, it’s a craveable dish that comes together in about 30 minutes. Whether you’re seeking a comforting weeknight meal or an elegant starter for a special occasion, this Cream of Jalapeno Soup is the answer to “What’s for dinner?”

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If you have a penchant for the unique, earthy flavor of jalapenos, then prepare to fall head over heels for this incredible Creamy Jalapeno Soup! This recipe showcases the distinct essence of fresh jalapenos, delivering a robust flavor profile that’s surprisingly mild in heat – hitting just about a medium spice level, making it wonderfully enjoyable for most palates without overwhelming the senses.

There’s an undeniable comfort in a well-made creamy soup, and this one stands out from the rest. Crafted with good, fresh jalapenos and high-quality dairy, this soup transforms simple ingredients into an elegant dish that will impress everyone at your table. Beyond its exquisite taste, its speed of preparation is another huge win; it’s ready in a flash! What’s even better is that the flavors deepen and meld beautifully as it rests in the fridge, making it an excellent candidate for meal prepping as it often tastes even more spectacular the next day!

Essential Ingredients for the Best Cream of Jalapeno Soup

Crafting this delicious Cream of Jalapeno Soup requires a thoughtful selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the soup’s complex flavor profile and luxurious texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:

• Butter: I typically opt for salted butter as it enhances the overall flavor. However, if you prefer to control the salt content precisely, unsalted butter works perfectly, allowing you to adjust seasoning to your exact taste before serving.
• Jalapenos: The star of our show! You’ll need about 6 medium-sized jalapenos. Crucially, remove both the stems and seeds. While the seeds contain most of the capsaicin (the heat compound), removing them also prevents a grainy texture in your beautifully smooth soup. The flesh of the jalapeno provides all the wonderful flavor we’re after without excessive heat.
• Onion: Sweet onion is my go-to choice, lending a subtle sweetness that balances the jalapeno. Alternatively, a shallot can be used for a more delicate, refined onion flavor. Ensure they are finely diced for even cooking and seamless blending.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic cloves are non-negotiable for their pungent aroma and deep flavor. Avoid pre-minced garlic if possible, as fresh cloves offer a far superior taste.
• Cumin: Ground cumin powder introduces a warm, earthy, and slightly smoky undertone that beautifully complements the Tex-Mex inspired flavors of the jalapeno. It’s a secret ingredient that truly elevates the soup.
• All-Purpose Flour: This acts as a thickening agent, creating a roux with the butter to give the soup its classic creamy body. If you have dietary restrictions, you can experiment with gluten-free thickeners, but flour is highly recommended for its texture.
• Avocado: Don’t skip this! A ripe avocado is essential for achieving the soup’s incredibly velvety texture and adding a subtle richness. It also contributes to the beautiful light green hue and a hint of earthy freshness.
• Milk: Whole milk is preferred for the richest, most decadent soup. Its higher fat content contributes to the luxurious mouthfeel. However, 2% milk can also be used for a slightly lighter version without compromising too much on creaminess.
• Chicken Broth: Opt for low or no-sodium-added chicken broth to control the seasoning of your soup. Homemade chicken broth will always yield the best flavor, but a good quality store-bought broth works well. For a vegetarian version, simply substitute with vegetable broth or stock.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Added at the very end of the cooking process, heavy cream is the ultimate ingredient for unparalleled richness and a silky finish. It brings all the flavors together and provides that indulgent, creamy consistency.
• Salt and White Pepper: Seasoning to taste is vital. I recommend white pepper over black pepper; it provides the same peppery notes but avoids unsightly black flecks that can mar the pristine appearance of a creamy white or pale green soup.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro, chopped finely, serves as a fantastic garnish. Its bright, citrusy notes offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. Save a bit extra if you plan to make the optional cilantro oil.

For the Optional Cilantro Oil

Elevate your Cream of Jalapeno Soup with a vibrant drizzle of homemade cilantro oil – it’s a gourmet touch that adds both visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor.

• Cilantro: You’ll need a generous amount, approximately 1/2 cup, including both stems and leaves for maximum flavor and color.
• Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste and a smooth, vibrant oil.

How To Make The Best Cream of Jalapeno Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Achieving this soup’s perfect balance of flavor and creamy texture is simpler than you think. Follow these detailed steps to create a truly memorable Cream of Jalapeno Soup. For a full, printable list of ingredients with precise measurements and instructions, please refer to the complete recipe card located towards the end of this page.

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by melting the butter in a heavy-bottomed soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Once melted and slightly shimmering, add the finely diced jalapenos and onions. Sauté these vegetables gently, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and very soft, which should take about 6-8 minutes. It’s crucial not to brown them, as this can discolor the final soup.
2. Infuse with Garlic and Cumin: Introduce the minced garlic and ground cumin to the pot. Continue to sauté for another minute, stirring constantly, until the spices become wonderfully fragrant. This step helps to bloom the spices, intensifying their aroma and flavor. After this, turn off the heat temporarily.
3. Create the Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetable mixture. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon or spatula for about one minute. This creates a roux, which will thicken your soup and prevent lumps, while also cooking out the raw flour taste.
4. Whisk in Liquids: Gradually stream the chicken broth into the flour-vegetable mixture while continuously whisking to ensure a smooth consistency and prevent any lumps from forming. Once the broth is fully incorporated, whisk in the milk until well combined.
5. Simmer to Perfection: Bring the soup mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and allow it to simmer for approximately 15 minutes. Remember to stir periodically to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the vegetables to become incredibly tender.
6. Prepare for Pureeing: Carefully transfer the hot soup from the pot into a blender. Add the peeled and seeded avocado to the blender. The avocado is key to achieving that signature creamy, smooth texture and adds a wonderful subtle richness.
7. Puree Until Silky Smooth: Secure the blender lid, but make sure to remove the small cap from the lid’s opening. Cover this opening with a clean kitchen towel to allow steam to escape while preventing any hot soup from splattering. Blend the soup on high until it is completely smooth and velvety. Work in batches if your blender isn’t large enough to prevent overfilling.
8. Finish with Cream and Season: Pour the pureed soup back into your soup pot. Whisk in the heavy whipping cream until fully incorporated. Gently bring the soup back to a bare simmer over low heat – do not let it come to a rolling boil after adding the cream. Turn off the heat and taste the soup, then adjust the seasoning with salt and white pepper as needed to achieve your desired flavor balance.
9. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the warm Cream of Jalapeno Soup into bowls. For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, drizzle with the optional homemade cilantro oil and sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Crafting the Vibrant Cilantro Oil

This optional cilantro oil adds a professional touch and a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor that perfectly complements the creamy soup. Here’s how to make it:

1. Blanch the Cilantro: Bring a medium-sized pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the cilantro, stems and all, and blanch for only about 5 seconds. This quick blanching brightens the color and mellows the raw cilantro flavor.
2. Shock and Squeeze: Immediately transfer the blanched cilantro into an ice bath (a bowl of ice water). This stops the cooking process and locks in that vivid green color. Once cooled, remove the cilantro from the ice bath and gently squeeze out any excess water.
3. Blend Until Smooth: Place the squeezed cilantro and the good quality olive oil into a blender. Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and vibrant green.
4. Strain for Perfection: For a truly restaurant-quality finish, strain the cilantro oil through a fine-mesh sieve into a squeeze bottle or a small jar. This removes any fibrous bits, resulting in a smooth, pure oil. Use it to garnish your soup, or store any leftovers in the fridge for up to a week.

Chef Jenn’s Expert Tips for a Flawless Cream of Jalapeno Soup

Even though this Cream of Jalapeno Soup is wonderfully straightforward, these chef-approved tips will help you achieve the best possible results, ensuring a silky smooth texture and vibrant flavor every time.

• Prevent Browning Your Aromatics: When sautéing the diced jalapenos and onions, always keep the heat on medium-low. Browning the onions can lead to a darker, less appealing color in your final soup and can also impart a slightly bitter taste. Gentle sautéing allows them to soften and release their sweet flavors without caramelizing.
• Achieve Silky Smoothness: Ensure your onions and jalapenos are very soft before moving to the next step. This is crucial for achieving that desirable silky smooth consistency once the soup is pureed. Undercooked vegetables will result in a slightly chunky or grainy soup.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: To easily transform this into a vegetarian jalapeno soup, simply substitute the chicken broth with a high-quality vegetable broth or vegetable stock. The rest of the recipe remains suitable for a vegetarian diet.
• Handle Cream with Care: After adding the heavy whipping cream at the end of the cooking process, avoid boiling the soup vigorously. Bring it back to just a bare simmer, then immediately turn off the heat. Boiling cream can cause it to separate or curdle, affecting the soup’s smooth texture.
• Embrace or Skip the Cilantro Oil: The cilantro oil is a “cheffy” trick that adds a beautiful visual contrast and a fresh herbaceous note. While it elevates the dish, it is entirely optional. The soup is delicious even without this extra garnish.
• Adjusting Thickness: If your soup turns out thinner than you prefer, create a smooth slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour with 3 tablespoons of cold water. Whisk this mixture gradually into your simmering soup, then continue to simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens to your liking.
• Thinning Your Soup: Conversely, if your soup is too thick, gradually thin it out by stirring in a little extra milk or cream until it reaches your desired consistency. Always taste and adjust the seasoning after thinning, as adding liquid can dilute the flavors.
• Safe Hot Blending: When pureeing hot liquids, remember to fill your blender only halfway to prevent pressure buildup. Remove the center cap of the blender lid and cover the opening with a kitchen towel to allow steam to escape safely. This prevents the lid from blowing off and hot liquid from splashing.

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Make It A Complete Meal: Serving Suggestions

While this Cream of Jalapeno Soup is wonderfully satisfying on its own, I’m a firm believer that a great soup can be the star of a meal or the perfect accompaniment. If you’re looking to turn this delectable soup into a more substantial experience, here are some terrific options that complement its creamy texture and zesty flavor:

• Cornbread Madeleines: These sweet and savory little corn bread cookies are an absolute delight with the soup. Their slight sweetness and crumbly texture provide a fantastic contrast to the creamy, subtly spicy soup.
• French Dip Sliders: There’s nothing quite like a classic soup and sandwich pairing. The rich, savory flavors of French Dip sliders are a superb match for the creamy and zesty notes of the jalapeno soup, creating a hearty and comforting meal.
• As a Starter to a Gourmet Meal: Elevate any dinner by serving this soup as an elegant first course. It would be a phenomenal prelude to a delicious grilled ribeye cap steak, adding a touch of sophisticated flavor before the main event.
• Part of Your Holiday Buffet: This soup’s unique flavor makes it a standout addition to a holiday spread. Serve it alongside other festive dishes like succulent smoked turkey and savory sausage dressing for a memorable feast.
• Crusty Bread or Tortilla Chips: For a simpler accompaniment, serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up every last drop, or a side of crispy tortilla chips for added crunch and a nod to its Tex-Mex influences.

Storage & Freezing Tips for Cream of Jalapeno Soup

This easy Cream of Jalapeno Soup is not only delicious freshly made but also stores and freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Proper storage ensures you can savor its wonderful flavor for days or even months.

Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!

Freezing: This soup freezes nicely, making it perfect for having a comforting meal ready at a moment’s notice. Once completely cooled, pour the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving about an inch of headspace to allow for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For easy portioning, consider using Souper Cubes or similar freezer trays.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight if possible, or gently on the stovetop over low heat. Reheat refrigerated soup gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Avoid boiling, especially after freezing and thawing, to maintain its creamy texture.

Step By Step Process: Visual Guide

Sometimes, seeing is believing! This visual guide provides a clear overview of the key stages in preparing your luscious Cream of Jalapeno Soup, helping you along the way to culinary success.

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4.49 from 25 votes

Cream of Jalapeno Soup

Thick, velvety, and loaded with fresh jalapeno flavor, this medium-level spicy soup is perfect for jalapeno fans! Easy and elegant, serve it with your favorite meals today!

Course
Soups & Stews

Cuisine
American, Tex-Mex

Keyword
cream of jalapeno soup, cream soup, creamy soup, jalapeno, jalapenos, soup

Prep Time

5 minutes
minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes
minutes

Total Time

30 minutes
minutes

Servings

6
servings

Calories

449
kcal

Author
Chef Jenn

Ingredients

• 1/4
  cup
  
  butter
  
  salted is fine
• 6
  jalapenos
  stems and seeds removed
• 1
  cup
  diced sweet onion
• 3
  cloves
  garlic
  finely minced
• 2
  teaspoons
  
  ground cumin
  
• 2
  tablespoons
  
  all-purpose flour
  
• 2
  cups
  no sodium added chicken broth
• 3
  cups
  milk
  whole or 2%
• 1
  avocado
  seeded and removed from skin
• 1
  cup
  
  heavy whipping cream
  
• 
  salt and pepper
  
  to taste (use white pepper for best color)
• 1/4
  cup
  chopped cilantro
  optional garnish

For the cilantro oil (optional)

• 1/2
  cup
  fresh cilantro
  stems and leaves included
• 1/4
  cup
  
  good quality olive oil
  

Instructions

• Melt the butter in the bottom of a heavy-bottomed soup pot over medium-low heat. Add the diced jalapenos and onions, and sauté until the onions are translucent and very soft, about 6-8 minutes. Be careful not to brown them.
• Add the minced garlic and ground cumin to the pot. Sauté for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Turn off the heat.
• Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for an additional minute while stirring to form a roux and cook out the raw flour taste.
• Gradually stream the chicken broth into the flour-vegetable mixture while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Then, whisk in the milk until well combined.
• Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring from time to time. This allows the flavors to meld.
• Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (in batches if necessary). Add the peeled and seeded avocado.
• Puree the soup until completely smooth and velvety. Ensure the hole in the blender lid is removed and covered with a kitchen towel to allow steam to escape safely.
• Transfer the pureed soup back to the soup pot. Whisk in the heavy whipping cream. Bring the soup back to a bare simmer over low heat (do not boil), then turn off the heat and adjust the seasoning with salt and white pepper to taste.
• Ladle into bowls, garnish with cilantro oil (optional) and fresh chopped cilantro (optional). Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Cream of Jalapeno Soup!

To Make the Cilantro Oil (Optional)

• Boil water in a medium-sized pot. Blanch the cilantro (stems and all) for about 5 seconds.
• Immediately transfer the blanched cilantro to an ice bath to cool and retain its vibrant color. Once cooled, gently squeeze out any excess water.
• Add the squeezed cilantro and olive oil to a blender. Blend until completely smooth.
• Strain the cilantro oil through a fine-mesh sieve into a squeeze bottle or small jar for garnishing.

Notes

Chef Jenn’s Additional Tips

• When sautéing the veggies, keep the heat on medium-low to prevent the onions from browning, which can discolor your soup.
• Sauté the vegetables until they are very soft to ensure your soup achieves a silky smooth texture after blending.
• To make this a vegetarian jalapeno soup, simply use vegetable broth or vegetable stock instead of chicken broth.
• Never boil the heavy cream. Add it at the end of the cooking time and only heat the soup through to a bare simmer to maintain its creamy consistency.
• The cilantro oil is a gourmet touch and a beautiful garnish, but it is completely optional. The soup is delicious even without it.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour with 3 tablespoons of cold water to create a smooth slurry. Stir this into the simmering soup and continue to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
• Should your soup be too thick for your liking, thin it with a bit more milk or cream, then taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• For safe pureeing of hot liquids, fill the blender only halfway, remove the lid’s center cap, and cover the opening with a kitchen towel to allow steam to escape while blending.

Nutrition

Serving:
1.5
cups

|

Calories:
449
kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
16
g

|

Protein:
8
g

|

Fat:
41
g

|

Saturated Fat:
18
g

|

Polyunsaturated Fat:
3
g

|

Monounsaturated Fat:
17
g

|

Trans Fat:
0.3
g

|

Cholesterol:
80
mg

|

Sodium:
149
mg

|

Potassium:
551
mg

|

Fiber:
3
g

|

Sugar:
9
g

|

Vitamin A:
1361
IU

|

Vitamin C:
23
mg

|

Calcium:
203
mg

|

Iron:
1
mg

A Note on Nutritional Information

Nutritional information for this recipe is provided as a courtesy and is calculated based on available online ingredient information. It is only an approximate value. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site cannot be guaranteed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cream of Jalapeno Soup

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making and enjoying this delicious Cream of Jalapeno Soup:

• How spicy is this soup really?
  Despite being a “jalapeno” soup, the heat level is intentionally kept moderate. By removing the seeds and stems from the jalapenos, we significantly reduce the capsaicin content, which is where most of the spice resides. This allows the distinct, earthy flavor of the jalapenos to shine through without overwhelming heat, making it enjoyable for most palates. It typically registers as a medium spice level.
• Can I make this soup ahead of time?
  Absolutely! This soup is an excellent candidate for making ahead. In fact, its flavors tend to deepen and meld even more beautifully after a day or two in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, it also freezes very well for up to 3 months.
• Is this soup vegetarian or vegan?
  As written, the recipe is vegetarian if you substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or stock. However, it is not vegan due to the inclusion of butter, milk, and heavy whipping cream. To make it vegan, you would need to replace these dairy products with plant-based alternatives (e.g., olive oil, plant-based milk, and full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for richness).
• What’s the best way to puree hot soup safely?
  When pureeing hot liquids in a blender, safety is key! Fill your blender only halfway to prevent pressure buildup. Always remove the small cap from the blender lid and cover the opening with a clean kitchen towel. This allows steam to escape safely while preventing hot liquid from splattering. Blend in batches if necessary. An immersion blender can also be used directly in the pot, which is often a safer and easier alternative.
• How can I adjust the thickness of my soup?
  If your soup is too thick, simply whisk in a little more milk or cream until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour with 3 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Whisk this into the simmering soup and cook for a few more minutes until it thickens. Always adjust seasoning after making any additions.

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We hope you thoroughly enjoy creating and savoring this velvety Cream of Jalapeno Soup. Its rich flavor and comforting warmth are perfect for brightening any day. Don’t hesitate to experiment with garnishes or serving suggestions to make it uniquely yours. Happy cooking!