Introduction
Tortilla soup is a delicious and flavorful Mexican dish that is perfect for any time of the year. Whether you’re looking for a warm and comforting meal during the colder months or a refreshing and satisfying option during the summer, tortilla soup is a versatile choice that will surely satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the instructions for making tortilla soup, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. You will need:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
- 2 teaspoons of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup of corn kernels
- 1 cup of black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips, for serving
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
To start, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, and jalapeno pepper. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the mixture becomes fragrant, which usually takes about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Spices
Once the aromatics are sautéed, it’s time to add the spices. Sprinkle in the ground cumin and chili powder. Stir well to coat the onions, garlic, and jalapeno with the spices. Allow them to cook for another minute or so, intensifying the flavors.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Tomatoes
Next, pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to incorporate any bits that may have stuck. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 4: Add Corn, Black Beans, and Chicken
Now it’s time to add the corn kernels, black beans, and cooked chicken. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Allow the soup to simmer for about 15 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld together.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. If you like a spicier soup, you can also add more chili powder or jalapeno at this point. Ladle the hot tortilla soup into bowls and serve with tortilla chips on the side.
Conclusion
Tortilla soup is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Mexico right to your table. With its rich and comforting flavors, it’s no wonder why this dish is loved by many. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a hearty and delicious meal, tortilla soup is a fantastic choice. Now that you have the recipe and instructions, it’s time to get cooking!
