Tortilla Soup

Whenever the chill of winter sets in, nothing warms me up quite like a hearty bowl of Tortilla Soup. Growing up, this dish was a staple in my family, especially during those cozy evenings spent huddled together. The aroma of simmering spices would fill the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each spoonful of this soup is like a warm hug, with layers of flavors that tell a story of comfort and tradition. I can still remember my grandmother’s secret technique for making the perfect crispy tortilla strips to top it all off. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of family and warmth.

Ingredients Required for Tortilla Soup

The ingredients for Tortilla Soup are simple yet powerful, each playing a vital role in the final dish. The heart of the soup is the chicken or turkey stock, which provides the base flavor. Fresh cilantro and crunchy tortilla strips add freshness and texture, making every bowl a delight.

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil: This oil is essential for sautéing, adding richness and flavor to the soup.
• 1 large yellow onion, sliced thin (about 1 cup): Onions provide a sweet base when cooked, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Garlic adds a fragrant kick, elevating the dish.
• 2 teaspoons chili powder: This brings warmth and depth to the soup, perfect for those cold nights.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano adds an earthy note, complementing the other spices beautifully.
• 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Tomatoes provide acidity and body, enriching the soup’s texture.
• 1 quart chicken or turkey stock, about 4 cups: The stock forms the flavorful base of the soup.
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken or turkey meat, about 13 ounces: This adds protein and heartiness, making the soup filling.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
• 4 (6-inch) corn tortillas: Tortillas are baked to create crispy strips that add a wonderful crunch.
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil: Used to brush the tortillas for baking, adding crispiness.
• Chopped fresh cilantro, for topping: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and flavor.
• Additional toppings: sliced avocado, Greek yogurt, sour cream, shredded cheddar or jack cheese: These extras allow you to customize each bowl to your liking.

Putting Together Tortilla Soup

Making Tortilla Soup is a rewarding process that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas. Follow these steps to create a delightful soup that warms both the body and soul.

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures your tortilla strips will get perfectly crispy.
2. In a 3-quart or larger pot, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium. Add the yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally until soft, about 5 minutes. Onions should become translucent, releasing their sweet fragrance.
3. Add the minced garlic, chili powder, and dried oregano. Stir often for about 3 minutes until the spices become fragrant, filling your kitchen with a warm scent.
4. Next, add the crushed tomatoes and chicken stock. Raise the heat to medium-high, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. While the soup is simmering, brush each corn tortilla with vegetable oil. Stack them on a cutting board and cut into 1/2-inch wide strips. This will create the perfect crispy toppings for your soup.
6. Arrange the cut strips on a sheet pan in a single layer. If necessary, use more than one pan or bake in rounds. Sprinkle a few pinches of salt over the strips and bake until they are golden and crispy, about 10 minutes.
7. Once the soup has simmered for the allotted time, add the shredded cooked chicken or turkey meat. Season with Kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Allow everything to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the meat through.
8. To serve, ladle the soup into bowls, topping each with a handful of crispy tortilla strips and freshly chopped cilantro. Add optional toppings like sliced avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese for an extra touch.
9. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Tortilla Soup and relish the flavors of home!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

Flexibility is key when it comes to cooking, and this Tortilla Soup is no exception. Here are some great ways to make this recipe your own.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this soup! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months.
• Variations: Try adding beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
• Spice Level: For a spicier soup, include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock and use beans or tofu instead of chicken for a vegan twist.
• Serving Style: Serve with additional toppings like diced red onion or fresh lime wedges for a zesty finish.

Pairing Suggestions for Tortilla Soup

When it comes to serving your Tortilla Soup, there are plenty of delicious options to enhance the experience. Here are some perfect pairing suggestions:

• Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting combination that’s hard to resist.
• Occasions: This is a perfect dish for casual gatherings, cozy family dinners, or even festive celebrations.
• Seasonal Pairing: Ideal for winter evenings, bringing warmth and comfort during the colder months.
• Storage Tips: Be sure to store any leftovers in the refrigerator, and enjoy within a few days for the best flavor.
• Lunch Option: This soup also makes a fantastic lunch; just pack it in a thermos for an on-the-go meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tortilla Soup is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Its rich flavors and delightful textures make it a staple in many households, and it’s easy to see why. I encourage you to try making it yourself and share it with your loved ones. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a way to create wonderful memories around the dinner table.

Tortilla Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Tortilla Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that warms you from the inside out. With its rich spices, tender chicken, and crispy tortillas, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to satisfy. Perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings, make it tonight!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Soups

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 6 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Frying Pan
• Oven
• Saucepan

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion sliced thin (about 1 cup)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 15-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 1 quart chicken or turkey stock (about 4 cups)
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken or turkey meat (about 13 ounces)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 4 6-inch corn tortillas
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• chopped fresh cilantro for topping
• Additional toppings : sliced avocado, Greek yogurt, sour cream, shredded cheddar or jack cheese

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures your tortilla strips will get perfectly crispy.
• In a 3-quart or larger pot, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium. Add the yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally until soft, about 5 minutes. Onions should become translucent, releasing their sweet fragrance.
• Add the minced garlic, chili powder, and dried oregano. Stir often for about 3 minutes until the spices become fragrant, filling your kitchen with a warm scent.
• Next, add the crushed tomatoes and chicken stock. Raise the heat to medium-high, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• While the soup is simmering, brush each corn tortilla with vegetable oil. Stack them on a cutting board and cut into 1/2-inch wide strips. This will create the perfect crispy toppings for your soup.
• Arrange the cut strips on a sheet pan in a single layer. If necessary, use more than one pan or bake in rounds. Sprinkle a few pinches of salt over the strips and bake until they are golden and crispy, about 10 minutes.
• Once the soup has simmered for the allotted time, add the shredded cooked chicken or turkey meat. Season with Kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Allow everything to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the meat through.
• To serve, ladle the soup into bowls, topping each with a handful of crispy tortilla strips and freshly chopped cilantro. Add optional toppings like sliced avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese for an extra touch.
• Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Tortilla Soup and relish the flavors of home!

Notes

Here are some tips to keep in mind when making Tortilla Soup:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this soup! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months.
• Variations: Try adding beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
• Spice Level: For a spicier soup, include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock and use beans or tofu instead of chicken for a vegan twist.
• Serving Style: Serve with additional toppings like diced red onion or fresh lime wedges for a zesty finish.

Keyword Comfort Food Soup, Easy Tortilla Soup, Homemade Tortilla Soup, Tortilla Soup Recipe

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Meet Maya Carlson

I believe that every dish tells a story through its colors and textures. I apply my artistic eye to everything we make. I love being hands-on with every recipe, helping to plate a savory stew just as beautifully as a dessert. I enjoy the challenge of making every single genre of food look as good as it tastes. If we are cooking, I am right there in the mix, styling and seasoning until it’s perfect.