Delicious Tortilla Soup Recipe – The Ultimate Comfort Food
Greetings, fellow foodies! Today, I have a treat for your taste buds – a tantalizing recipe for the delectable Tortilla Soup or Sopa De Tortilla.
As soon as you hear the name of this soup, you’ll be transported to the vibrant streets of Mexico to become a part of its rich culinary legacy. This dish has become an international favorite, with variations in Spain and Costa Rica. But today we will focus on the classic Mexican version that is sure to turn any mundane meal into a festive experience!
Tortilla Soup is comfort food at its best – hearty, flavorful, and bursting with texture. A warm bowl of this soup on a chilly evening can soothe your soul and lift your spirits. It is also easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your guests or please your family. So let’s gather our ingredients and get started on this mouth-watering journey!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I urge you to pay attention, my dear readers, as I present to you an irresistible dish that will make your taste buds dance with joy. If you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine or even if you’re not, this Tortilla Soup recipe will undoubtedly win over your hearts and palate.
What’s not to love about a warm, hearty soup packed with flavors and textures? This soup is a perfect combination of chicken broth, fresh tomatoes, onion, garlic cloves, and pasilla chile tomato-based broth tailored with el torito – vegetable oil. It’s an excellent choice for people who have busy schedules and want something quick but satisfying. You can easily make this soup in under 35 minutes.
The toppings for the soup make it even more exceptional. The crispy fried tortilla strips, fresh cilantro leaves, creamy avocado slices, and melty Monterrey Jack cheese come together in perfect harmony to create a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Moreover, there is no doubt that a bowl of warm Tortilla Soup is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion- be it cold winter nights or warming up after a long day at work. It has become one of my ultimate go-to comfort dishes over time.
I promise that once you try this Mexican tortilla soup recipe, you won’t be able to get enough of it. It might even become your go-to recipe when friends and family come over – this recipe makes enough for six people! So don’t hesitate to give it a try; your loved ones will thank you for introducing them to such a delectable dish.
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients we’ll need to make this delicious tortilla soup recipe:
For the soup
- 2 tbsp of vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Pasilla chile peppers, seeded and chopped
- Two 14.5-ounce cans of diced tomatoes with their liquid
- 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper, freshly ground
For the tortilla strips
- 6 corn tortillas (approx. 6 inches in diameter)
- Vegetable oil (enough for frying)
Optional garnishes
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- Avocado, cubed
- Monterey Jack cheese or any other Mexican cheese, shredded
- Fresh lime juice
Note: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and pepper based on your preference. Additionally, you can add toppings as desired such as fresh lime juice, diced tomatoes or shredded Mexican cheese.
Now that we have our grocery list ready let’s move on to making this scrumptious tortilla soup!
The Recipe How-To
Here’s how to make my Tortilla Soup (Sopa De Tortilla) Recipe that will surely satisfy your craving for something warm and comforting:
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
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Ingredients:
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
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Directions:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a chopped medium onion and cook until translucent, approximately for 3-4 minutes. Then mince 2 garlic cloves and add to the onion, cook for another minute.
Step 2: Add Broth and Tomatoes
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Ingredients:
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 pasilla chile pepper
- 1 cup tomato sauce
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Directions:
Add 4 cups of chicken broth, one can of diced tomatoes with juice (14 oz), and one seeded and stemmed pasilla chile pepper to the pot. Pour in one cup of tomato sauce and stir everything together.
Step 3: Bring to Boil and Simmer
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Ingredients:
- The mixture from steps 1-2
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 tsp fresh lime juice
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Directions:
Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until everything is tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste then add in 2 tsp of fresh lime juice.
Step 4: Fry Tortilla Strips
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Ingredients:
- Corn tortillas cut into strips
- Vegetable oil for frying
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Directions:
Cut the corn tortillas into strips and fry until crispy in a pan with vegetable oil. This will give the soup that nice crunch!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
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Ingredients:
- Tortilla soup
- Fried tortilla strips
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Diced fresh tomatoes
- Monterrey Jack cheese
- Diced avocado
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Directions:
Ladle the tortilla soup into bowls, Top with the fried tortilla strips, diced fresh tomatoes, and fresh cilantro leaves. Feel free to add shredded monterey jack cheese and diced avocado as well! Serve hot and enjoy!
This rich and flavorful soup is best enjoyed on chilly evenings, but you can also make it any time you’re craving comfort food!
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re feeling experimental in the kitchen, there are a few substitutions and variations that you can try to make this already delicious tortilla soup recipe stand out even more.
One alternative is to use different types of cheese. While Monterey Jack cheese is traditional, you could opt for something sharper like cheddar or add a bit of creaminess with queso fresco or cotija cheese.
If you want to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, simply substitute the chicken broth for vegetable broth and leave out the shredded chicken. You can also add protein-packed black beans or tofu as a tasty alternative.
To switch up the texture of the tortilla soup, try replacing the fried tortilla strips with crumbled tortilla chips or lightly toasted bread cubes. This will give your soup a new dimension of crunchiness.
In addition, if you prefer a spicier soup, add an extra pasilla chile or jalapeno pepper to the recipe. On the other hand, if you prefer your soup on the milder side, only add half of a pasilla chile and remove any seeds that may increase the level of spiciness.
Other great toppings to include with your tortilla soup include avocado slices, fresh cilantro leaves, and a dollop of sour cream.
Remember that cooking is an art and there’s always room for creativity in the kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with these substitutions and variations to make this classic Mexican dish truly your own.
Serving and Pairing
Now that your Tortilla Soup is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy! This flavorful soup can be served alone or with a variety of toppings to add some texture and depth to each bite.
To start, arrange some crispy fried tortilla strips on a plate and pour the soup over them. You can also add some chunks of ripe avocado, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, fresh cilantro leaves, and a splash of fresh lime juice to balance the flavors.
If you’re in the mood for something spicier, chop up some fresh tomatoes and onions and sprinkle them on top of the soup with a dollop of sour cream and a dash of hot sauce. If you like it extra crunchy, crush some tortilla chips and sprinkle them over the top.
As for pairing options, this soup goes well with a variety of sides such as warm cornbread, a fresh green salad or even some grilled corn on the cob if you want to keep it in theme with Latin American cuisine.
Alternatively, pair this soup with a refreshing Costa Rican beer or even a smooth Spanish red wine to complement the rich flavors in this Tomato-based broth tailored with Pasilla chile.
No matter what you choose, make sure to savor every spoonful and enjoy each bite of this delicious Tortilla Soup.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Planning ahead is always a good idea, and when it comes to this delicious tortilla soup recipe, it’s no different. This soup can be made ahead of time and stored for later use, giving you the advantage of a stress-free meal during your busy schedule.
To prepare the soup in advance, follow the same steps as outlined in the recipe. Once done, let the soup cool down completely before placing it in an air-tight container. Store the container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it to keep it fresh for up to 6 months.
When ready to reheat, take out the soup from the fridge or freezer and transfer it into a pot. If frozen, let it defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating on a medium heat stove until heated through. Add some broth if needed to adjust its thickness and season with salt and pepper to taste.
The crispy fried tortilla strips that come along with this recipe can also be made beforehand if you plan on storing them. The best way is to cook them just before serving as they tend become soft if stored for too long.
Storing leftover tortilla strips separately from the soup can help retain their crunchiness. Just place the leftover strips in an air-tight container or zip-lock bag before storing them in a cool dry place.
Overall, this recipe is perfect not only for your immediate meal but also for make-ahead meals or storing leftovers. Knowing that you don’t have to make fresh meals every day can be incredibly freeing – especially during those hectic moments where every minute counts!
Tips for Perfect Results
In order to make the perfect Tortilla Soup, there are a few tips you should pay attention to. These tips will help you achieve a flavorful soup that is sure to impress your friends and family.
Firstly, using fresh ingredients is key to maximizing flavor in your soup. Using fresh tomatoes, onions and garlic cloves will help bring out the best of these ingredients, adding a lot of depth to the broth. It is also important to squeeze fresh lime juice over the soup before serving to add a little tanginess that makes all the flavors pop.
Another tip is to tailor the broth to your liking. If you like spicy food, you can add more pasilla chile or crushed red pepper flakes to the broth so it has more kick. On the other hand, if you prefer mild flavors, reduce the amount of chile used in the recipe.
Additionally, using homemade tortilla strips instead of pre-packaged ones will make a huge difference in your Tortilla Soup. Homemade tortillas have a fresher taste and chewier texture compared to store-bought ones that can often taste stale or overly crunchy.
It is also important not to overcrowd the pot when making this soup as doing so will result in soggy tortilla strips and overcooked vegetables. Therefore, I recommend using a large pot or dutch oven when making this recipe.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of garnishes like fresh cilantro leaves and ripe avocados. They add not only aesthetic value but also freshness and flavor balance to your dish.
Following these tips will help ensure that your Tortilla Soup comes out delicious every time you make it. So go ahead and make this soup your own by adjusting it according to your taste and preference!
FAQ
As we reach the FAQ section of this recipe article, I hope that I may have already satisfied your curiosity and equipped you with the knowledge to prepare a delightful Tortilla Soup. However, I understand that there might still be some lingering uncertainties and questions left unanswered. Let me take this opportunity to address some common queries you might have in mind.
Where is Sopa de Tortilla from?
Tortilla soup, also known as sopa de tortilla, is a beloved soup that originates from central Mexico. This flavor-packed soup boasts a handful of tasty ingredients such as shredded chicken, roasted poblano peppers, and crispy chicharrones. Various versions of tortilla soup exist, but they all have one thing in common: a delicious combination of spices and flavors!
What is Mexican tortilla soup called?
One of Mexico’s most popular soups, known as Sopa Azteca or more commonly as Tortilla Soup, features a savory broth made of pasilla chilies and tomatoes. The soup is served with a selection of toppings that allow for customized flavors and textures. These toppings can include crispy tortilla strips, chicken, avocado, chicharrones, cilantro, salsa, and lime.
How can I thicken my tortilla soup?
For those searching for a fast solution, a thickening agent can be added to the soup. Combine about 1-2 tsp. of arrowroot starch with a small amount of soup liquid, mix well, then stir the mixture into the soup. This method will create a denser soup in only 2-3 minutes.
What is chicken tortilla soup made of?
The origins of chicken tortilla soup can be traced back to Mexico, where it is a much-loved traditional dish. Typically, this soup is prepared using an assortment of ingredients such as chicken broth, garlic, onion, chilies, chopped tomatoes and crispy fried tortilla strips. Some versions include the addition of beans to make it more hearty and nutritious.
Bottom Line
I hope this recipe for Tortilla Soup (Sopa De Tortilla) has inspired you to explore new flavors and experiment in the kitchen. This soup is an amalgamation of Mexican and American cuisine, perfectly tailored to satisfy your craving for a soul-warming dish. The crispy fried tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and creamy avocado add an extra layer of texture and flavor that will make your taste buds dance.
Cooking this soup is easy, and it can be made with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Moreover, it provides versatility as you can easily customize it based on your preferences.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab those corn tortillas and start making this mouthwatering soup. I guarantee that once you have tried my recipe, it will become a permanent dish in your meal rotation.
Take the leap and expand your culinary horizon with a spoonful of Tortilla Soup. It’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters!
Tortilla Soup (Sopa De Tortilla) Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup corn oil
- 6 corn tortillas, cut into 1/4 inch strips (stale are fine)
- 3 garlic cloves, sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 dried chilies, preferably pasilla, stemmed, seeded, and sliced
- 3 fresh tomatoes, roasted (or blanched and peeled or just canned tomatoes)
- 6 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (to taste)
- salt and pepper
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 cup cubed mexican cheese, such as queso fresco, blanco, ranchero or 1 cup monterey jack cheese
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted and sliced
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a saucepan over med/high heat for a couple minutes.
- Begin frying the tortilla strips in batches until golden brown and crisp, turning after a minute or two, about 2-4 minutes in total.
- Drain on paper towels and set aside.
- Discard all but 2 tablespoons of the oil and turn the heat to meduim.
- Add the garlic and onion, and saute until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chiles, tomatoes and half the tortilla strips and cook another 5 minutes.
- Add the chicken stock and bring to a boil, them simmer for 20 minutes.
- Let the soup cool slightly, and then using an immersion blender, or an upright blender, puree the mixture until smooth.
- Return mixture to the stove over medium heat, stir in the chicken and heat through.
- Season with lime juice, salt and pepper.
- Garnish with the cilantro, cheese, avocado, and the remaining tortilla strips, enjoy!
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Dora
Dora is a chef well-versed in Brazilian and American cuisine. After a hard day's work in the kitchen of her restaurant, she finds the time to jot down recipes for her food blog. Her recipes are sure to delight foodies everywhere, as she strives to make each one unique and enjoyable to read.