Tortilla Soup
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of tortilla soup, a classic Mexican dish that warms both the body and soul. With its rich broth, tender vegetables, and crispy tortilla strips, this soup is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, tortilla soup is a versatile recipe that can be customized to your liking. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation to create this delightful dish!
Ingredients
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1 cup black beans (canned, drained, and rinsed)
– 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortilla strips (for topping)
– Avocado, diced (for topping)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (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 of tortilla soup (about 1.5 cups) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fat: 5g
– Fiber: 7g
This nutritional value is based on a typical serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of oil.
2. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn.
5. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
7. Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes to meld the flavors.
8. Meanwhile, prepare tortilla strips by cutting corn tortillas into strips and frying them until crispy.
9. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary.
10. Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, diced avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute ingredients in tortilla soup. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and skip the chicken. Swap black beans for pinto beans or add diced bell peppers for more flavor. If you want a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving and Pairings
Tortilla soup pairs wonderfully with fresh cornbread, a side salad, or quesadillas. For an added zest, serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of cheese.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover tortilla soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just be aware that the texture of the tortillas may change upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip on sautéing the onions; it adds depth of flavor.
– Avoid overcooking the soup; it can become too thick.
– Be mindful of seasoning; taste frequently and adjust.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Don’t forget to add toppings; they enhance the dish significantly.
Helpful Tips
– For a creamier texture, add a splash of cream or yogurt.
– Experiment with different beans for unique flavors.
– Garnish with fresh herbs to brighten the dish.
– Use homemade tortilla strips for a fresh crunch.
FAQs
Can I make tortilla soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Tortilla soup can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious.
Is tortilla soup gluten-free?
Yes, tortilla soup can be gluten-free if you use corn tortillas and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free. Always read labels to ensure no hidden gluten.
Can I add meat to tortilla soup?
Yes, shredded chicken or ground beef can be added for extra protein. Simply sauté the meat along with the onions and garlic before adding the other ingredients.
How can I make tortilla soup spicier?
To increase the heat, add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce. Start with small amounts and adjust to your desired spice level.
What toppings work well with tortilla soup?
Common toppings include avocado, cheese, tortilla strips, cilantro, sour cream, and lime wedges. Customize to your taste preferences for a delightful finish.
Conclusion
Tortilla soup is a delicious, comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Its versatility allows for endless variations, making it suitable for any palate. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a festive gathering dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy your culinary adventure with tortilla soup!
Tortilla Soup
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla strips for topping
- Avocado diced for topping
- Fresh cilantro chopped for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of oil.
- Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Prepare tortilla strips by cutting corn tortillas into strips and frying them until crispy.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, diced avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges.
