Taco Soup I

Taco Soup I Recipe - Authentic Mexican Taco Seasoning Recipe

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Taco soup is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends and family. Packed with flavorful ingredients like ground beef, tomatoes, corn, and beans, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings for a Tex-Mex inspired meal.

History

Taco soup is a popular dish in the Southern United States, particularly in Texas and the Southwest. It is believed to have originated as a way to use up leftover ingredients from taco night, such as ground beef, beans, and tomatoes. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of ingredients and seasonings, making it a versatile and customizable dish.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of ground beef, browned
1 packet of taco seasoning
1 can of diced or crushed tomatoes
1 can of corn
1 can of pinto beans
1 can of red kidney beans
1 can of chicken broth
1 cup of ketchup

How to prepare

Combine all the ingredients.
Simmer for at least 1 hour.
However, the longer the simmering time, the better the result.
The dish tastes even better when served as leftovers.
Serve the dish over Fritos.
Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa as desired.

Variations

Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans for a meatless version of taco soup.
Spicy: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder for a fiery kick.
Creamy: Stir in a can of cream of chicken soup or a dollop of cream cheese for a creamy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To add extra flavor to your taco soup, try sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers before adding the other ingredients.

- For a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the soup.

- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a can of refried beans or mashed avocado to the mixture.

- Taco soup can be easily made in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for a hands-off cooking experience.

Serving Suggestions

Taco soup can be served with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, and tortilla strips. It pairs well with a side of cornbread or a green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the ground beef before adding it to the soup helps to develop a rich flavor.

- Simmering the soup for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld together and intensify.

- Stirring occasionally prevents the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of ground beef.

- Black beans or white beans can be substituted for pinto and kidney beans.

- Salsa can be used in place of diced tomatoes for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Taco soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve taco soup in individual bowls and garnish with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a few slices of avocado. Add a side of tortilla chips or cornbread for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Taco soup pairs well with a cold beer, a glass of red wine, or a refreshing glass of iced tea. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a citrus-infused water or a fruit smoothie.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover taco soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300 per serving

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 35g

- Dietary Fiber: 8g

- Sugars: 10g

Fats

- Total Fat: 10g

- Saturated Fat: 4g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 20g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% DV

- Vitamin C: 20% DV

- Calcium: 10% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

Taco soup is a well-balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying and nutritious option for lunch or dinner.

Summary

Taco soup is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. It was during a trip to Mexico with my husband many years ago. We were exploring the local markets and stumbled upon a small food stand where a friendly woman was cooking up a storm.

The aroma of spices and herbs filled the air, and I couldn't resist asking her what she was making. She smiled and told me it was her family's recipe for taco soup. I immediately knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

I spent the rest of the day watching her cook, taking mental notes of each ingredient she used and how she prepared them. She was kind enough to write down the recipe for me on a small piece of paper, and I treasured it like a precious gem.

When we returned home, I couldn't wait to recreate the flavors of Mexico in my own kitchen. I gathered all the ingredients and followed the recipe to a tee. The result was nothing short of amazing - a hearty and flavorful soup that warmed my soul.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own twist here and there to make it truly my own. But the essence of the taco soup recipe remains the same - a rich broth filled with tender chunks of beef, beans, corn, and a medley of spices that create a symphony of flavors in every spoonful.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, and it has become a staple in our household. It's the perfect dish for chilly nights or when we simply crave a taste of Mexico. And every time I make it, I am transported back to that small food stand in Mexico, where I first fell in love with the art of cooking.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can customize it to your liking, adding more or less of certain ingredients to suit your taste buds. I have even made a vegetarian version for my daughter, who no longer eats meat.

I often think about that kind woman in Mexico who shared her family recipe with me. I wish I could thank her for introducing me to the magic of taco soup. But in a way, I feel like she is with me every time I make it, guiding me with her knowledge and expertise.

As I ladle the steaming soup into bowls and top it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cheese, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes I have collected over the years. Each one tells a story, a memory of where I learned it and who shared it with me.

And as I sit down to enjoy a bowl of taco soup with my loved ones, I am reminded once again of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to nourish both body and soul. I am forever grateful for the gift of cooking and the joy it brings to my life.