Are you ready to dive into a bowl of comfort? Tortilla soup is a vibrant and hearty dish that combines the warmth of spices with the freshness of ingredients. This classic Mexican soup is perfect for chilly evenings or any day you need a flavorful pick-me-up. With its crispy tortilla strips, rich broth, and delightful toppings, tortilla soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (optional)
– Tortilla strips, for garnish
– Avocado, diced, for garnish
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Lime wedges, for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of tortilla soup contains approximately 250 calories, 10g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, 15g of protein, and 800mg of sodium. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced bell pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in the canned tomatoes, including juices, and stir.
6. Add chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
8. If using, add shredded cooked chicken to the pot.
9. Let the soup simmer for 20 minutes to meld flavors.
10. Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, avocado, cilantro, and lime.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize this recipe by using black beans instead of chicken for a vegetarian version. Additionally, feel free to add corn, zucchini, or any other vegetables you enjoy.
Serving and Pairings
Tortilla soup pairs beautifully with fresh lime wedges, avocado slices, and crispy tortilla chips. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover tortilla soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip the onions and garlic; they add essential flavor.
- Be careful with the spices; adjust to your taste.
- Don’t let the soup boil too hard, as it can alter the texture.
- Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t forget to garnish – it elevates the dish significantly!
Helpful Tips
- Use homemade broth for a richer flavor.
- For extra heat, add jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Try adding cheese on top for a creamy finish.
- Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination.
FAQs
What makes tortilla soup different from other soups?
Tortilla soup is unique due to its vibrant flavors, crispy tortilla strips, and traditional Mexican spices. The combination of textures and tastes sets it apart from other soups.
Can I make tortilla soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. You can also add beans for protein.
How can I make it spicier?
To increase the heat, add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to the soup.
What toppings are best for tortilla soup?
Popular toppings include avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, cheese, and crispy tortilla strips for added crunch.
Can I freeze tortilla soup?
Yes, tortilla soup can be frozen. Cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Tortilla soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it with friends and family, and let the comforting flavors brighten your day.
Tortilla Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken optional
- Tortilla strips for garnish
- Avocado diced, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add diced bell pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes, including juices, and stir.
- Add chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- If using, add shredded cooked chicken to the pot.
- Let the soup simmer for 20 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, avocado, cilantro, and lime.
