South of the Border Chicken Soup

Authentic South of the Border Chicken Soup Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

South of the Border Chicken Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This soup is packed with flavor and is sure to warm you up on a chilly evening.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Mexican cuisine, which is known for its bold flavors and use of fresh ingredients. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and spices in this soup is a classic in Mexican cooking.

Ingredients

3 tbsp vegetable oil
3 (6 inches) tortillas (preferably corn), cut into 0.5 inch strips
1 cup chopped green bell pepper
1 clove garlic, minced
0.25 cup all-purpose flour
2 (14 oz (397 g)) cans chicken broth
2 cup cubed, cooked chicken meat
2 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
1 tsp chili powder

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large stock pot.
When the oil is hot, add tortilla strips and fry, stirring constantly until golden.
Remove the strips from the pot and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
Add onion and green bell pepper to the pot. Cook over medium heat until they reach your desired level of softness.
Stir in garlic and flour for a few seconds. Gradually pour in chicken broth, ensuring that the flour dissolves before adding more.
Add cooked chicken, chili powder, and optional mixed vegetables. Cook until the mixture thickens (letting it boil on medium heat is recommended).
Serve the soup. Sprinkle tortilla strips on top of each individual bowl and serve additional strips on the side.

Variations

Add some diced tomatoes or corn for extra flavor.
Use shredded beef or pork instead of chicken for a different twist.
Top the soup with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to fry the tortilla strips until they are golden and crispy for the perfect topping.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your taste preferences.

- Feel free to customize this soup with your favorite vegetables or add some beans for extra protein.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with a side of warm tortillas or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the tortilla strips until crispy adds a crunchy texture to the soup.

- Cooking the vegetables until soft helps to develop their flavors and create a rich broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

- Substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of soup with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this soup with a crisp white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing contrast to the warm and spicy flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 300 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 10 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 20 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron from the vegetables and chicken.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the all-purpose flour. It may also contain dairy if you choose to add cheese as a topping.

Summary

This South of the Border Chicken Soup is a well-balanced meal that provides a good source of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

South of the Border Chicken Soup is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a dear friend who had recently returned from a trip to Mexico. As we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping tea, she began to tell me all about the delicious meals she had enjoyed during her travels.

One dish in particular caught my attention - a hearty and flavorful South of the Border Chicken Soup. My friend described it as a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for any occasion. I was intrigued and asked her if she had a recipe to share.

With a twinkle in her eye, she rummaged through a stack of old cookbooks until she found the one she was looking for. She handed it to me with a smile and said, "Here you go, my dear. This is a family recipe that has been passed down for generations. I'm sure you'll love it as much as we do."

I eagerly took the cookbook and flipped through the pages until I found the recipe for South of the Border Chicken Soup. As I read through the list of ingredients and instructions, I could almost taste the rich broth, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables. It was a simple yet delicious dish that I knew I had to try making myself.

That evening, I returned home with the recipe in hand and set to work in my own kitchen. I gathered all the necessary ingredients - chicken, onions, garlic, tomatoes, corn, and a variety of spices. As I chopped and prepared each item, the familiar smells of home cooking filled the air, bringing back memories of my own childhood and the meals my own mother used to make.

I followed the recipe carefully, simmering the chicken and vegetables in a large pot until the flavors melded together perfectly. The soup bubbled and steamed, filling my kitchen with its enticing aroma. Finally, it was time to ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish it with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. I couldn't wait to take my first taste.

As I sat down at the table with a steaming bowl of South of the Border Chicken Soup in front of me, I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. The first spoonful was pure perfection - the savory broth, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables danced on my taste buds, leaving me feeling warm and satisfied.

I savored every bite, reveling in the delicious flavors and the memories they evoked. It was as if I had been transported to Mexico, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a bustling market, with the tantalizing scent of spices and herbs filling the air. This soup was more than just a meal - it was a culinary journey that connected me to a rich and vibrant culture.

From that day on, South of the Border Chicken Soup became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home. Each time I prepared it, I felt a sense of pride and connection to the recipe and the friend who had shared it with me.

As the years passed, I made a few tweaks and adjustments to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch here and there. I experimented with different spices, vegetables, and toppings, making each batch of soup unique and special. But no matter how many times I made it, the comforting and delicious flavors of South of the Border Chicken Soup remained a constant in my life.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the scent of simmering broth and the sound of bubbling soup, I can't help but smile at the memories that this recipe has brought me. It has become more than just a dish - it is a part of who I am, a reminder of the friendships, travels, and experiences that have shaped my life.

And as I take another spoonful of soup, I am grateful for the simple pleasure of good food and good company, and the joy of sharing a delicious recipe with those I love. For me, South of the Border Chicken Soup is not just a recipe - it is a story, a memory, and a connection to the past. And for that, I am truly thankful.