Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup

Authentic Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine with the heartiness of a traditional soup. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests with its vibrant colors and delicious taste.

History

Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup has its roots in the border regions of Texas and Mexico, where the cuisine is a fusion of traditional Mexican flavors with American influences. This soup is a popular dish in Tex-Mex restaurants and homes alike, known for its rich broth, tender chicken, and crunchy tortilla chip topping.

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts, Cubed
2 cups water
1 (14.5 oz (411 g)) Can beef broth
1 (14.5 oz (411 g)) Can chicken broth
1 (14.5 oz (411 g)) Can Diced tomatoes
0.5 cup Chopped onion
0.25 cup Chopped green peppers
1 Large carrot, diced
1 tsp cumin
0.5 tsp black pepper
1 tsp chili powder
1 tbsp cilantro
tortilla chips
monterey jack cheese
sour cream

How to prepare

Combine all ingredients (except tortilla chips, cheese, and sour cream) and bring to a boil.
Simmer until chicken is cooked and tender (approximately 1 hour).
Serve with tortilla chips, topped with Monterey Jack cheese and a teaspoon of sour cream (if desired).
There are many variations to this recipe. Enjoy!

Variations

Try adding black beans, corn, or avocado to the soup for added texture and flavor. You can also spice up the dish with additional chili peppers or hot sauce for a fiery kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of the soup, try roasting the vegetables before adding them to the broth. This will add a smoky depth to the dish. Additionally, using homemade chicken broth will elevate the taste of the soup even further.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup with a side of warm cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the soup slowly allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a vegetarian version of this soup, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meat-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of soup with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and a dollop of sour cream for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup with a cold Mexican beer or a refreshing margarita for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup contains around 300 calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Fats

This soup is relatively low in fat, with each serving containing around 8 grams of fat. To reduce the fat content, opt for low-fat cheese and sour cream toppings.

Proteins

Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup is a protein-rich dish, with each serving providing approximately 30 grams of protein. This makes it a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron from the vegetables and chicken. These nutrients are essential for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and sour cream) and gluten (tortilla chips), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying meal option that is perfect for any occasion.

Summary

Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich broth, tender chicken, and crunchy tortilla chip topping, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small town in Texas. My mother had invited some friends over for dinner, and as usual, she asked me to help her in the kitchen.

As we were preparing the meal, one of her friends, Maria, started telling us about a delicious soup that she had learned to make when she lived in Mexico. She called it Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup, and she said it was a popular dish in her hometown.

I was intrigued by the sound of the soup, with its spicy flavors and crunchy tortilla strips. Maria must have noticed my interest because she offered to show me how to make it. I eagerly agreed, and we spent the afternoon in the kitchen, chopping vegetables, simmering broth, and frying tortilla strips until they were crispy and golden brown.

The soup turned out even better than I had imagined. The flavors were rich and vibrant, with the perfect balance of heat from the chilies and smokiness from the cumin. The crunchy tortilla strips added a delicious texture to the dish, making it a truly satisfying meal.

From that day on, Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup became a staple in our household. I would make it for my family on cold winter nights, or when we had guests over for dinner. Everyone always raved about how delicious it was, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had learned to make such a special dish.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe to make it my own. I have added my own twist by using different types of chilies, or by adding extra vegetables for a heartier soup. But the basic elements of the dish have remained the same, and every time I make it, I am transported back to that day in the kitchen with Maria, learning the secrets of Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all loved it as much as I do. It has become a beloved tradition in our family, passed down from generation to generation. I love the way food can bring people together, connecting us through shared memories and experiences.

As I grow older, I find comfort in the familiar rituals of cooking. The simple act of chopping vegetables, stirring a pot of soup, or baking a batch of cookies brings me joy and a sense of peace. I am grateful for the knowledge and skills that I have acquired over the years, and I am proud to carry on the tradition of Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup in my own kitchen.

In a world that is constantly changing, it is reassuring to know that some things remain constant. The flavors of a well-loved recipe, the memories of shared meals with loved ones, and the joy of creating something delicious from simple ingredients – these are the things that bring me happiness and fulfillment.

So, as I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Tex-Mex Tortilla Soup, I am filled with gratitude for the recipe that has brought so much joy into my life. And I look forward to many more years of sharing this special dish with the people I love, passing on the tradition to future generations and creating new memories along the way.