Classic Mexican Tortilla Soup

Tortilla soup is a classic Mexican dish that’s both flavorful and easy to make. It’s a perfect weeknight meal because it comes together quickly and can be easily customized to your liking. This recipe focuses on a simple, yet delicious version, but feel free to experiment with different ingredients and spice levels to find your perfect bowl.

Here’s what you’ll need:

For the broth:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

1 (10 ounce) can rotel tomatoes and green chilies, undrained

4 cups chicken broth

1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained

For serving:

Avocado, diced

Sour cream

Shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack)

Chopped cilantro

Lime wedges

Tortilla strips (optional)

Instructions:

1. Make the broth: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and jalapeño (if using) and cook for 1 minute more.
2. Add spices: Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and oregano and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Combine ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, Rotel tomatoes, chicken broth, and black beans to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded.
4. Blend (optional): For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree some or all of the soup.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with avocado, sour cream, cheese, cilantro, lime wedges, and tortilla strips (if using).

Tips and Variations:

Spice it up: If you like it hot, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the soup. You can also use a hotter variety of jalapeño.

Add protein: For a heartier soup, add cooked chicken, shredded pork, or shrimp.

Make it vegetarian/vegan: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Use different beans: Black beans are traditional, but you can also use pinto beans, kidney beans, or a combination.

Add corn: For a touch of sweetness, add a can of corn to the soup.

Why Tortilla Soup is a Great Choice:

Easy to make: This recipe requires minimal effort and can be on the table in under 30 minutes.

Budget-friendly: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or inexpensive canned goods.

Versatile: You can easily customize it to your liking with different toppings and protein sources.

Healthy: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, it’s a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Comforting: The warm broth and flavorful ingredients make it the perfect dish for a cold day.

Tortilla Soup and its Cultural Significance

Tortilla soup has deep roots in Mexican cuisine. It’s a dish that has evolved over time, with variations found throughout Mexico and the United States. It’s often served as a street food or a casual meal, but it can also be dressed up for a more formal occasion.

The beauty of tortilla soup lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, from seasoned foodies to picky eaters. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a flavorful dish to impress your guests, tortilla soup is always a crowd-pleaser.

Tips for Serving Tortilla Soup:

Serve it hot: The best way to enjoy tortilla soup is hot and steaming.

Garnish generously: Don’t be shy with the toppings! The more, the merrier.

Offer a variety of toppings: This allows everyone to customize their bowl to their liking.

Serve with warm tortillas: This is a great way to soak up the delicious broth.

Enjoy with friends and family: Tortilla soup is a perfect dish for sharing with loved ones.

Conclusion

Tortilla soup is a delicious and versatile dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner idea, give this classic Mexican recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!