Oh, the joy of diving into a bowl of tortilla soup! This recipe is your ticket to a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Perfect for any day of the week, this soup brings the heat, the crunch, and the comfort all in one.
Why This Recipe Works
- The blend of spices creates a depth of flavor that’s both rich and inviting.
- Homemade tortilla strips add a satisfying crunch that store-bought just can’t match.
- It’s customizable, so you can dial the heat up or down to suit your taste.
- Perfect for meal prep, as the flavors only get better with time.
- It’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Baking sheet
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and jalapeno, sautéing until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This is where the flavor base starts, so don’t rush it. Tip: If you’re sensitive to heat, wear gloves when handling the jalapeno.
Step 2: Spice It Up
Stir in the cumin and chili powder, cooking for another minute until the spices are toasted and aromatic. This step unlocks the spices’ flavors, making your soup taste like it’s been simmering all day.
Step 3: Build the Soup
Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, corn, and black beans to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Add the Chicken
Stir in the shredded chicken and let the soup cook for another 5 minutes, just until the chicken is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Tip: For extra flavor, use rotisserie chicken.
Step 5: Crisp the Tortillas
While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F. Spread the tortilla strips on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, or until crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Tip: For extra flavor, toss the strips with a little oil and salt before baking.
Tips and Tricks
To take your tortilla soup to the next level, consider these tips. First, for a smokier flavor, add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. Second, if you’re short on time, use store-bought tortilla chips instead of making your own strips. Third, for a vegetarian version, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the chicken. Fourth, garnish with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese for extra richness. Lastly, the soup freezes beautifully, so don’t hesitate to make a double batch.
Recipe Variations
- For a seafood twist, add shrimp or crab meat in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make it creamy by stirring in a cup of heavy cream or coconut milk.
- Add more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- For a different texture, use hominy instead of corn.
- Spice lovers can add extra jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté the aromatics and spices first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the chicken in the last hour to prevent it from drying out.
How can I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of it before adding the chicken. Alternatively, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) during the last few minutes of cooking.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The tortilla strips will soften, so it’s best to add fresh ones when reheating. The soup also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Summary
This tortilla soup is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich broth, tender chicken, and crispy tortillas, it’s sure to become a favorite. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
