Tortilla Soup
Tortilla soup is a delightful Mexican dish that brings warmth and comfort in every spoonful. Its rich broth, combined with crispy tortilla strips and vibrant toppings, creates a symphony of flavors that is sure to please. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this tortilla soup is a versatile and satisfying option. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the cooking process to create this culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (optional)
– 4 corn tortillas, cut into strips
– 1 avocado, diced
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Lime wedges, for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of tortilla soup contains approximately 250 calories, 10g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, and 15g of protein. This nutritional breakdown is for one person, ensuring a hearty and fulfilling meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and chopped jalapeño, cooking for another 2 minutes.
4. Add canned diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes to combine flavors.
5. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. If using, add shredded cooked chicken and let it heat through.
8. While the soup simmers, prepare tortilla strips by frying or baking until crispy.
9. Serve the soup hot, garnished with crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro.
10. Offer lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty flavor.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily swap ingredients to suit your taste. For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add beans for protein. Instead of corn tortillas, you can use flour tortillas or even tortilla chips for added crunch.
Serving and Pairings
Tortilla soup pairs wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad. You can also serve it alongside cornbread or quesadillas for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any 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 until hot. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure to store it in a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not sautéing the onions and garlic long enough may lead to a bland flavor.
- Using too much broth can dilute the soup; adjust to taste.
- Overcooking the tortilla strips can make them soggy; add them just before serving.
- Neglecting to taste and adjust seasoning can result in an unbalanced dish.
- Skipping fresh toppings can miss out on the texture and flavor contrast.
Helpful Tips
- For a smoky flavor, add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce.
- Use homemade broth for a richer taste.
- Garnish with cheese for added creaminess.
- Serve with fresh avocado for creaminess and texture.
FAQs
What can I add to make tortilla soup spicier?
You can increase the heat by adding more jalapeños, or include a dash of hot sauce or additional chili powder. Adjust according to your spice preference.
Can I make tortilla soup ahead of time?
Yes, tortilla soup can be made ahead of time. Just store the soup and tortilla strips separately until ready to serve to maintain texture.
Is tortilla soup gluten-free?
If you use corn tortillas and ensure your broth is gluten-free, then tortilla soup can be gluten-free. Always check labels to confirm.
What are common toppings for tortilla soup?
Common toppings include avocado, cheese, cilantro, sour cream, and lime wedges. Feel free to customize based on your preferences.
Can I make tortilla soup vegan?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and skip the chicken. Add beans or tofu for protein and enhance the flavors with extra vegetables.
Conclusion
Tortilla soup is more than just a dish; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. With its rich flavors and endless customization options, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on a chilly night or served at a gathering, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Tortilla Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 jalapeño chopped
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken optional
- 4 corn tortillas cut into strips
- 1 avocado diced
- 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, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and chopped jalapeño, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Add canned diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes to combine flavors.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- If using, add shredded cooked chicken and let it heat through.
- Prepare tortilla strips by frying or baking until crispy.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro.
- Offer lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty flavor.