Tortilla Soup Recipe

Tortilla soup, a vibrant and hearty Mexican classic, is not just a dish but a comforting experience that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for any time of year, this recipe balances rich flavors with a satisfying crunch, making it a favorite for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Here’s how you can create your own bowl of delicious tortilla soup:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (14 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• Avocado slices, tortilla strips, and lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, jalapeño (if using), and diced red bell pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender.
2. Add Spices and Tomatoes: Sprinkle ground cumin and chili powder over the vegetable mixture. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices. Add diced tomatoes with their juices and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
3. Simmer Soup: Pour in chicken or vegetable broth and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
4. Add Corn and Beans: Stir in corn kernels and black beans. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the soup is heated through.
5. Season and Finish: Season the soup with salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste. Add shredded chicken and let it warm through for a couple of minutes.
6. Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each serving with chopped fresh cilantro, avocado slices, tortilla strips, and a lime wedge for squeezing over the soup.

Tips:

• Tortilla Strips: To make your own tortilla strips, cut corn tortillas into thin strips and bake in the oven until crispy.
• Variations: For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. You can also add diced zucchini or diced carrots for extra vegetables.

Enjoy this soul-warming tortilla soup with family and friends. Its layers of flavors and textures make every spoonful a delightful experience, bringing the essence of Mexican cuisine to your table. Whether as a starter or a main dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.