Tortilla soup is a comforting Mexican dish that'll warm your heart and taste buds! It starts with a rich, flavorful chicken broth simmered to perfection, then you'll enjoy tender chicken, crispy tortilla strips, and tasty toppings like avocado, cheese, and lime. The combination of textures and zesty flavors makes each spoonful a delight. Whether you're craving a cozy meal or want to impress your friends, tortilla soup is sure to hit the spot. And if you'd like to learn more about the history and recipes behind this beloved classic, keep reading!
Key Takeaways
- Tortilla soup is a classic Mexican dish with a long history, originating from the Aztec Empire and evolving to include crispy tortilla strips, chicken, and various toppings.
- The key to a successful tortilla soup is a rich and complex broth, made by simmering aromatic ingredients and enhancing the antioxidant content and overall flavor.
- The cooking process involves frying tortilla strips, preparing the broth, and combining the elements to create a harmonious blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors.
- Tortilla soup is typically garnished with toppings like queso fresco, avocado, and cilantro, and is best enjoyed hot, with the crunchy tortilla strips and tender chicken.
- Sharing a bowl of tortilla soup can create lasting memories, fostering connection and enjoyment among diners through the comforting and satisfying culinary experience.
History
Tortilla soup has long been a beloved dish in Mexican cuisine. This classic comfort food has roots dating back to the Aztec Empire, when the indigenous people would create a simple broth infused with roasted and ground corn.
Over time, this humble soup evolved, with the addition of crispy tortilla strips, savory chicken, and a vibrant array of toppings.
Today, tortilla soup is a staple in households and restaurants across Mexico, each version reflecting the unique flavors and traditions of the region.
Whether you prefer it spicy, tangy, or loaded with toppings, this dish is a true celebration of Mexican culinary heritage.
The aroma of simmering broth, the crunch of fresh tortilla strips, and the burst of flavors in every bite make tortilla soup an irresistible treat for the senses.
It's no wonder this iconic dish has captured the hearts and stomachs of people around the world.
Recipe
Tortilla Soup is a traditional Mexican dish that combines a flavorful broth, tender chicken, and crispy tortilla strips. This comforting soup is perfect for a casual dinner or a weekend gathering.
To start, the key to a great tortilla soup is building a rich and complex broth. By simmering aromatics like onions, garlic, and tomatoes, you'll create a base that will infuse the entire dish with depth of flavor. Additionally, incorporating fresh ingredients can enhance the overall antioxidant content of the soup, promoting better health as well as flavor rich in antioxidants.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips
- Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
- Diced avocado
- Chopped cilantro
In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a bit of oil until softened. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, and chili powder. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
Add the chicken breasts, cover, and continue simmering for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Shred the chicken and return it to the pot.
To serve, place a handful of tortilla chips in the bottom of each bowl. Ladle the hot soup over the chips, then top with shredded cheese, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
The crispy tortilla chips will soften slightly in the hot broth, creating a delightful texture contrast. Enjoy!
Cooking Steps
Slice those tortilla strips crosswise, then fry 'em up until they're nice and crispy.
Next, ladle the hot, savory soup right over the top, and don't forget to add your favorite garnishes.
Serve it up right away and enjoy this comforting, flavor-packed meal!
Step 1. Slice Tortilla Strips Crosswise
With a sharp knife, carefully slice the tortilla rounds crosswise into thin strips. Go slowly and make sure to keep your fingers safe! You want the strips to be about 1/4 inch wide, so they'll get nice and crispy when you fry them up.
Don't worry if they're not perfectly even – the imperfections just add to the homemade charm. Once you've sliced all the tortillas, gather the strips into a pile. It's time to start cooking!
Next, you'll need to heat up some oil in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, carefully add the tortilla strips in a single layer. Fry them for 1-2 minutes per side, flipping occasionally, until they're golden brown and deliciously crispy.
Be careful, the oil will be hot! Use a slotted spoon to transfer the crispy tortilla strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil.
Now that you've got your crunchy tortilla strips ready, you can start assembling your tasty tortilla soup! Get ready for layers of flavor in every bite.
Step 2. Fry Tortilla Strips Until Crispy
Heat up some oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Once the oil is nice and hot, it's time to get frying! Carefully add the sliced tortilla strips to the pan. Sizzle, sizzle – listen to that delightful sound as the tortillas turn golden brown and crispy.
Use a spatula to flip and shuffle the strips around, making sure they cook evenly on all sides.
Keep a close eye on them, as they can go from perfectly crispy to burnt in a flash.
When they reach that ideal crunch, remove the tortilla strips from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate.
Sprinkle with a pinch of salt to add that perfect flavor kick.
Now, you've got some super tasty, crunchy tortilla strips ready to top off your steaming hot tortilla soup. Yum!
These homemade crispy tortilla strips are going to take your soup to the next level.
Step 3. Ladle Soup Over Fried Tortilla Strips
Once you have your crispy tortilla strips ready, it's time to assemble the dish.
Grab your ladle and carefully scoop up some of the steaming hot soup. Slowly pour the aromatic broth over the fried tortilla strips, making sure to cover them evenly. The strips will instantly soak up the flavors, becoming soft and delightful.
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded chicken over the top, followed by a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
The vibrant green leaves will add a lovely touch of color and a burst of herbaceous flavor. Don't forget the crumbled queso fresco – its creamy texture and tangy bite will perfectly complement the other ingredients.
Step 4. Add Garnishes
Top the steaming soup with a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco, its creamy texture and tangy bite complementing the other ingredients.
Next, add a handful of crisp tortilla strips, their golden crunch adding a delightful contrast to the smooth broth.
For a pop of color, sprinkle some diced avocado on top, its cool, buttery chunks a refreshing touch.
Don't forget the fresh cilantro – its fragrant, herbal notes will really make the flavors sing.
Finally, a squeeze of lime juice will brighten the whole dish, adding a zesty zing to balance out the richness.
Now, your tortilla soup is complete, a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
The garnishes you've added elevate the dish, transforming it into a vibrant and appetizing masterpiece.
Go ahead, dive in and savor each delicious spoonful – the flavors will dance on your tongue, leaving you craving more.
Enjoy!
Step 5. Serve Soup Immediately
As soon as you've added the final garnishes, it's time to serve the tortilla soup immediately. The soup is best enjoyed hot, with all the delicious flavors and textures coming together in each spoonful.
Don't let it sit and cool down – get that steaming, fragrant bowl on the table right away!
Carefully ladle the soup into your serving bowls, making sure to scoop up plenty of the crunchy tortilla strips, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables. The bright red of the tomatoes, the deep green of the cilantro, and the golden yellow of the corn create a visually stunning presentation.
Invite your family and friends to dig in and savor every last bite.
The aroma of the spices and the sizzle as the hot soup hits the bowl will have everyone's mouths watering. Serve with extra lime wedges, hot sauce, and additional tortilla strips on the side so everyone can customize their soup exactly how they like it.
Enjoy this delicious, comforting meal together right away!
Final Thoughts
After considering the nuances of crafting the perfect tortilla soup, it's clear that the final product is a testament to the art of balancing flavors and textures.
You can almost smell the fragrant spices and feel the warmth of the broth as you take that first delightful sip. The crisp tortilla strips, the creamy avocado, the tangy lime – each element comes together in a symphony of taste that's sure to delight your palate.
And the best part? Sharing this culinary masterpiece with family and friends.
Gather around the table, passing the bowls and swapping stories as you enjoy every spoonful. It's a moment of pure comfort and connection, a shared experience that brings people together.
So savor every bite, revel in the flavors, and know that with each taste, you're creating memories that will last long after the soup is gone.
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Type of Corn Tortilla to Use?
You'll want to use corn tortillas that are fresh and pliable for the best texture in your dish. Look for soft, thin tortillas that won't fall apart when you add them to the soup.
Can I Use Store-Bought or Homemade Chicken Broth?
You can use either store-bought or homemade chicken broth for your recipe. Both will work well, but homemade broth may provide a richer, more flavorful base for your dish.
How Can I Make the Soup Spicier?
To make your soup spicier, you can add some diced jalapeños, a pinch of chili powder, or a few drops of hot sauce. Experiment with different spices and heat levels to find your perfect level of spiciness.
Is It Possible to Freeze Leftover Sopa De Tortilla?
Absolutely, you can freeze leftover soup! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What Are Some Common Toppings to Add to the Soup?
Common toppings to add to the soup include diced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, crispy tortilla strips, sour cream, and chopped cilantro. These toppings add flavor, texture, and a range of delightful contrasts to the warm, comforting soup. For a traditional groundnut soup recipe, you can also add a sprinkle of ground peanuts or peanut butter to thicken the soup and give it a rich, nutty flavor. Some variations of the recipe also include diced tomatoes or bell peppers for added freshness and color. Regardless of the toppings and variations, groundnut soup remains a popular and satisfying dish in many West African cuisines.
Alejandro is a vibrant advocate of traditional Mexican cuisine. From spicy tacos and enchiladas to rich moles and tamales, Alejandro’s dishes celebrate the colorful, bold flavors of Mexico. His recipes bring authentic Mexican street food and home-cooked meals to your table, with a focus on using fresh, flavorful ingredients.
