Tortilla Soup Recipe: Nothing beats a bowl of warm, flavorful tortilla soup. Packed with a savory broth, tender vegetables, and a perfect blend of spices, tortilla soup is a comfort food that delights everyone at the table.
Let’s dive into this easy, step-by-step guide to making tortilla soup from scratch!
What is tortilla soup?
Tortilla soup is a traditional Mexican dish known for its rich, spicy tomato-based broth, crispy tortilla strips, and an array of toppings. It’s a flavorful medley that can be tailored to include chicken, beef, or remain entirely vegetarian.
Why is it a popular choice?
The combination of hearty ingredients, bold flavors, and easy preparation makes tortilla soup a favorite across households. Its versatility means you can enjoy it as a standalone meal or as part of a larger spread.
Health benefits of tortilla soup
Not only is tortilla soup satisfying, but it’s also packed with nutrients! Tomatoes provide antioxidants, while beans and vegetables add fiber. You can also control the fat content by using lean proteins and broths.
Ingredients Needed for Tortilla Soup
Essential Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken (optional)
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 1 cup of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup of corn kernels
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Optional Add-Ins for Enhanced Flavor
- Sliced avocado
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- Fresh lime wedges
- Jalapeño slices
Tools and Equipment Required
Kitchen Essentials
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Optional Tools for Convenience
- Immersion blender (for a smoother broth)
- Mandoline for slicing vegetables evenly
Preparing for Cooking
Prepping the Ingredients
Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables. Dice your onion, mince the garlic, and prepare the toppings like cilantro and avocado. If using chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces.
Organizing Your Workspace
Lay out all ingredients and tools before you start cooking. This ensures a smooth cooking process and reduces stress in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Sautéing the Base
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, allowing the spices to toast for 1–2 minutes.
Step 2: Adding the Broth and Spices
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and canned tomatoes. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Incorporating Vegetables and Proteins
Add the black beans, corn, and shredded chicken (if using). Stir everything together and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Simmering to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for an additional 15–20 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding salt, pepper, or extra chili powder if desired.
Step 5: Preparing Tortilla Strips
Cut fresh tortillas into thin strips. Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat, then fry the strips until crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
Step 5: Preparing Tortilla Strips
Ladle the soup into bowls, then top with crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and any additional toppings like avocado or cheese. Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Customization Tips
Making it vegetarian or vegan
For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. To make it vegan, ensure the toppings like cheese and sour cream are plant-based or simply omit them. Add extra beans or grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
Adjusting spice levels
Want more heat? Toss in a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper while simmering. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the chili powder and paprika. You can always serve with cooling ingredients like sour cream to balance the spice.
Pairing Tortilla Soup with Other Dishes
Side dishes
Tortilla soup pairs wonderfully with sides like Mexican rice, guacamole, or a fresh salad. Cornbread or warm, soft tortillas are also great for soaking up the delicious broth.
Beverages
Serve tortilla soup with a refreshing glass of agua fresca, horchata, or even a light beer. These beverages complement the soup’s bold flavors perfectly.
Storing and Reheating Tortilla Soup
Best practices for storage
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the tortilla strips separate to maintain their crispness.
Tips for reheating without losing flavor
Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. For a quick option, use the microwave, but heat in short intervals and stir in between. Add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened during storage.
Nutritional Information
A typical serving of tortilla soup is both nutritious and satisfying. Here’s a general breakdown per serving (without optional toppings):
- Calories: ~250–300
- Protein: 10–15g (higher with chicken)
- Carbohydrates: 20–25g
- Fat: 8–10g
- Fiber: 5–7g
Adding toppings like avocado or cheese will increase the calorie and fat content, but they also provide additional flavor and nutrients.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Tortilla Soup
Common mistakes to avoid
- Overloading with toppings: Keep the balance between soup and garnishes to let the broth shine.
- Skipping fresh herbs: Cilantro or parsley adds a burst of freshness that elevates the soup.
- Not toasting spices: This step unlocks deeper, richer flavors that make a huge difference.
Expert tips for boosting flavor
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky depth.
- Simmer with a bay leaf for subtle herbal notes.
- Add a splash of lime juice at the end for a zesty kick.
FAQs about Tortilla Soup Recipe
1. What ingredients are needed for a basic tortilla soup?
A basic tortilla soup typically includes chicken broth, shredded chicken, canned tomatoes, onion, garlic, and chili peppers. For garnishing, you’ll want tortilla strips, avocado, cilantro, lime, and shredded cheese.
2. Can I make tortilla soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add black beans, corn, and zucchini to keep it hearty and flavorful.
3. How can I make my tortilla soup more flavorful?
Enhance the soup by sautéing the onions and garlic until caramelized. Adding spices like cumin, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper can also boost the flavor. Consider a splash of lime juice for a bright finish.
4. What are the best toppings for tortilla soup?
Popular toppings include crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, and sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
5. Is tortilla soup freezer-friendly?
Tortilla soup freezes well without the toppings. Cool it down after cooking, then store it in freezer-safe containers. It can be kept for up to 3 months.
6. How long does it take to prepare tortilla soup?
Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of around 30 minutes, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Tortilla soup is a simple yet delicious dish that brings a taste of Mexico to your table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving guests, this flavorful soup is sure to be a hit. With its rich broth, variety of toppings, and endless customization options, tortilla soup is a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Try it out today and enjoy every spoonful!
