Imagine a warm, comforting bowl of homemade tortilla soup recipe. In fact, it’s easy to make and full of flavor. This recipe is loved by all, with a mix of spices and ingredients that make you crave more. Additionally, you can make it in just 40 minutes, with 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking.
Moreover, this recipe is more than just ingredients. It’s about creating a meal that brings people together. Whether you need a quick dinner or a meal to share, this soup is perfect. Its rich flavor and hearty ingredients make it a favorite in many homes.
Key Takeaways
- You can make a delicious tortilla soup recipe in just 40 minutes, with 10 minutes of preparation time and 30 minutes of cooking time.
- This easy tortilla soup serves 4 people, with approximately 277 kcal per serving.
- The recipe is highly customizable, with options to substitute black beans with pinto beans and chicken with turkey or omit for a vegetarian option.
- Homemade tortilla soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for 4-5 months.
- This recipe is a great source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option.
- You can adjust the spice level to your liking, with options to add more garlic, jalapeno peppers, or other spices to taste.
- This tortilla soup recipe is perfect for a crowd, with options to double or triple the recipe to serve a larger group.
The Rich History of Traditional Mexican Tortilla Soup
Traditional Mexican tortilla soup comes from Mexico City’s rich culinary culture. Originally, it started in pre-Hispanic times, in Tlaxcala, known as “the place of tortilla abundance” in Náhuatl. Over time, however, it has changed, with different regions in Mexico calling it by various names, like Aztec Soup.
Moreover, this soup holds a special place in Mexican cuisine. It’s great for lunch or dinner and can be a starter or main course. Additionally, adding shredded chicken makes it more filling. It’s often topped with crema and cheese, showing the variety in how people like to garnish it.
To make a true tortilla soup, you need traditional ingredients. Specifically, these include nixtamalized corn tortillas, chipotle chilies in adobo, and a mix of white onion, garlic, and tomatoes for the salsa. The tortilla strips are fried until golden and crunchy. As a result, this makes a delicious, traditional Mexican tortilla soup that everyone will love.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Nixtamalized corn tortillas | 10 |
| Chipotle chilies in adobo | 1 tablespoon |
| White onion | 1 |
| Garlic clove | 1 |
| Tomatoes | 7 |
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Tortilla Soup
To make the best tortilla soup recipe, you need some key ingredients. First, start with corn tortillas, olive oil, kosher salt, and pepper. Aromatics like yellow onion, jalapeño pepper, and garlic, on the other hand, add depth to the soup.
Moreover, the broth is a vital part of the soup. It’s made from chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and spices. Additionally, adding cooked shredded chicken, black beans, and corn boosts protein and fiber. Finally, a squeeze of fresh lime juice enhances the flavors, making it authentic.
- Corn tortillas for crispy strips or croutons
- Olive oil for sautéing aromatics
- Kosher salt and pepper for seasoning
- Yellow onion, jalapeño pepper, and garlic for added flavor
- Chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and spices for the base broth
- Cooked shredded chicken, black beans, and corn for added protein and fiber
Using these ingredients, you can make a delicious, authentic tortilla soup. It’s perfect for a comforting meal or a tasty snack.
Classic Tortilla Soup Recipe
To make a delicious tortilla soup recipe, start by preparing the ingredients. In fact, this homemade recipe is a classic and can be made spicy. It takes about 40 minutes to prepare and cook, with 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking.
Preparation Time and Serving Size
This recipe makes 6 cups of soup. Specifically, each serving has 372 calories, 24g of carbs, 21g of protein, and 22g of fat. Additionally, you can easily double the recipe to serve more.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
First, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Then, add 1 medium onion, 1 jalapeño, and 4 cloves of garlic. Cook for 2 minutes.
Next, add 3 cups of shredded cooked chicken breasts, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 2 teaspoons of dried oregano, and 2 teaspoons of ground cumin. Cook for another minute. Afterward, add 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, 1 (28-ounce) can of diced fire-roasted tomatoes, and 1.5 cups of fresh or frozen corn. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Garnishing Tips for Perfect Presentation
To garnish the soup, use shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, and crushed tortilla chips. Additionally, add a sprinkle of cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor. In fact, this spicy tortilla soup is great for any occasion.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 1-2 pieces |
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Jalapeño | 1 |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Chili powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried oregano | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground cumin | 2 teaspoons |
Selecting the Perfect Broth Base
Choosing the right broth base is key to a tasty tortilla soup. You might ask, what thickens tortilla soup recipe? In fact, the answer is the broth type. A great broth base, therefore, can elevate the soup’s flavor and texture.
For a rich broth, mix chicken and beef broth. This combo, in turn, adds depth and complexity. Alternatively, start with low-sodium chicken broth and add your favorite spices. Ultimately, the goal is to find the flavor mix that you enjoy the most.
When picking a broth base, consider store-bought or homemade options. Store-bought broth is quick and easy. But, making your own broth can be rewarding and delicious. By choosing the right broth, your tortilla soup will be a hit.
Making Crispy Tortilla Strips
To add a satisfying crunch to your loaded tortilla soup recipe, making crispy tortilla strips is a great option. This dish, tortilla soup, originated in Mexico City’s culinary culture. Moreover, you can choose between homemade and store-bought tortilla strips.
A key factor in achieving the perfect crispiness is the oil temperature for frying. In fact, the ideal temperature is between 340°F and 350°F. To make the tortilla strips, use a small skillet with about ½ to 1 cup of vegetable oil. The total time to make tortilla strips is approximately 17 minutes, with 5 minutes of prep time and 12 minutes of cook time.
Homemade vs Store-Bought Options
When deciding between homemade and store-bought tortilla strips, consider both the nutritional information and cost. Homemade tortilla strips, for instance, can be made for around $1.50 and have approximately 65 kcal per serving. On the other hand, store-bought options may have added preservatives and higher calorie counts.
Best Oil Temperature for Frying
To achieve the perfect crispiness, it’s essential to maintain the optimal oil temperature. Specifically, the ideal temperature for frying tortilla strips is between 340°F and 350°F. However, if the temperature exceeds 350°F, the strips may burn.
Storage Tips for Maximum Crispiness
To maintain the crispiness of your tortilla strips, store them in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Additionally, you can reheat them in a 350-degree oven for 5 minutes to restore their crunch.
Here’s a summary of the nutritional information per serving of homemade tortilla strips:
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 65 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Total Fat | 3 g |
| Sodium | 103 mg |
By following these tips and guidelines, you can create delicious and crispy tortilla strips to enhance your loaded tortilla soup experience.
Vegetarian and Vegan Adaptations
Adapting traditional tortilla soup for vegetarian and vegan diets is easy. For instance, just swap the chicken with vegetable stock and add plant-based proteins. This way, you get a tasty vegetarian tortilla soup. Moreover, for a vegan tortilla soup, make sure all ingredients are animal-free.
Here are some key ingredients for your vegetarian tortilla soup:
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- 1 small red onion
- 1 jalapeno
- 5-6 large garlic cloves
- 1 medium red pepper
- 2 cans of black beans
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup of salsa
- 1 cup of sweet corn
Cooking the vegetarian tortilla soup in an Instant Pot is quick. In fact, it only takes 10 minutes on high pressure. Additionally, you can add spices like cumin and smoked paprika for extra flavor.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 488 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 66 g |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
Vegetarian tortilla soup and vegan tortilla soup are both perfect for a fulfilling meal. Moreover, they’re packed with flavor and nutrients, making them ideal for a variety of diets.
Spice Level Customization
Spicy tortilla soup’s heat level is up to you. You can adjust the jalapeño pepper to change the flavor. For less heat, take out the seeds or use half a pepper.
Want to make your tortilla soup even better? Try different spice mixes. Here are some favorites:
- Cumin and chili powder for a smoky taste
- Paprika and garlic for a savory flavor
- Cayenne pepper and lime juice for a spicy kick
Changing the heat level is easy. For example, add serrano peppers for more heat or use less jalapeño. The goal is to find the right spice mix for your taste.
Moreover, customizing the spice and trying new mixes can make your soup unique. You can make it mild or very spicy. In fact, the choices are endless, and it’s always delicious.
| Spice Level | Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Mild | Half jalapeño, cumin, paprika | Savory, slightly smoky |
| Medium | Whole jalapeño, chili powder, garlic | Spicy, aromatic |
| Hot | Serrano peppers, cayenne pepper, lime juice | Very spicy, tangy |
Slow Cooker Method for Busy Days
A slow cooker is a great help when you’re in a hurry. In fact, it makes delicious and easy tortilla soup with minimal effort. Simply add all the ingredients and let it cook while you do other things.
To make slow cooker tortilla soup, you’ll need a few ingredients. Start by using 1-2 pounds of chicken breasts and 7 cups of chicken broth. Additionally, add 1 cup of yellow onion, 1.25 cups each of celery and carrots, and 10 corn tortillas cut into 1-inch pieces. Finally, don’t forget your favorite spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika.
Here’s a breakdown of the cooking time and temperature guidelines for slow cooker tortilla soup:
| Cooking Time | Temperature |
|---|---|
| 4-5 hours | High |
| 6-7 hours | Low |
For an easy tortilla soup, simply cook the ingredients in the slow cooker. Afterward, serve it with your favorite toppings like avocado, sour cream, and cilantro. Additionally, you can add crispy tortilla strips for extra crunch. This slow cooker method, therefore, makes it easy to enjoy a tasty tortilla soup even on the busiest days.
Common Recipe Mistakes to Avoid
When making the best tortilla soup recipe, it’s key to avoid common mistakes. For example, not sweating the onions and jalapeños is a big error, as it stops the soup from developing rich flavors.
Another mistake is not using enough broth, which makes the soup thick and paste-like. Additionally, overcooking can cause the soup to lose its flavor and texture. To avoid these pitfalls, be sure to follow a good recipe and use fresh, quality ingredients.
When making homemade tortilla soup, there are a few important things to remember. First, use the right amount of tomato to keep the flavors balanced. Then, blend fresh tomatoes until smooth to avoid chunks. By following these tips, you’ll be able to make a delicious, authentic tortilla soup.
As you experiment with new ingredients and techniques, always taste and adjust. Add a bit more of something until the flavors are perfect. With practice, you’ll be able to make the best tortilla soup like a pro!
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Storing and reheating your tortilla soup properly is key to maintaining its flavor and texture. For instance, the secret to thickening the soup lies in the tortilla strips, as they soak up excess moisture, making the soup thicker.
If you’re curious about Chick-fil-A’s tortilla soup, you can make a similar version at home by following the right steps.
To store your tortilla soup, first put it in a container and cover it. It will stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, simply use the microwave or stovetop until it’s hot and ready to enjoy.
Proper Storage Techniques
Here are some tips for storing your tortilla soup:
- Use airtight containers to prevent moisture and other flavors from affecting the soup.
- Label and date the containers so you can easily keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
- Store the containers in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
Best Reheating Methods
Reheating your tortilla soup is easy and can be done in a few ways:
- Microwave: Heat the soup in short intervals, stirring between each interval, until it’s hot and steaming.
- Stovetop: Heat the soup over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot and steaming.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing your tortilla soup is a great way to enjoy it later. Here are some tips:
- Use freezer-friendly airtight containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Label and date the containers or bags so you can easily keep track of how long they’ve been frozen.
- Store the containers or bags in the freezer at a temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or below.
| Storage Method | Storage Time |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
Creative Topping Combinations
Loaded tortilla soup is all about the toppings. You can pick your favorites to make it just right. Try adding fresh cilantro, cubed avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, and tortilla strips.
Looking for ideas? Here are a few:
- Fresh cilantro and cubed avocado for a fresh and creamy mix
- Shredded cheese and sour cream for a rich, tangy taste
- Tortilla strips and diced onions for a crunchy bite
Ever wondered what part of Mexico tortilla soup is from? While its exact origins are a mystery, it’s generally thought to come from Mexico, where tortillas are a big deal.
Loaded tortilla soup, on the other hand, has a rich history and is loved worldwide. It’s the perfect choice when you’re craving something either spicy or creamy.
So, why not get creative with your toppings and enjoy a tasty bowl of loaded tortilla soup?
Conclusion
In conclusion, This tortilla soup recipe is a tasty and easy comfort food, bringing the true taste of Mexican cuisine right to your table. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or to impress your guests.
Simply follow the steps and tips in this article to make a flavorful tortilla soup. You can also try different toppings and spices to make it your own. Share it with your loved ones for a special treat.
Are you ready to try it? Get your ingredients and start cooking. Enjoy the delicious journey of authentic tortilla soup. Bon appétit!