The Mansion on Turtle Creek Tortilla Soup

The Mansion on Turtle Creek Tortilla Soup Recipe - Authentic and Delicious

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Tortilla soup is a classic Mexican dish that is loved for its rich flavors and comforting warmth. The Mansion on Turtle Creek Tortilla Soup is a popular variation of this traditional recipe, known for its bold and spicy flavors. This recipe combines fire-roasted chilies, fresh tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices to create a delicious and satisfying soup that is perfect for any occasion.

History

The Mansion on Turtle Creek Tortilla Soup is a signature dish of the renowned Mansion on Turtle Creek hotel in Dallas, Texas. This luxurious hotel is known for its upscale dining experiences and exquisite cuisine. The recipe for this flavorful soup has been passed down through generations of chefs at the Mansion on Turtle Creek, each adding their own unique twist to the dish.

Ingredients

3 tbsp corn oil
4 corn tortillas, cut into long strips
8 garlic cloves, peeled
2 cups pureed fresh onion
4 cups pureed fresh tomato
5 dried New Mexican chilies, fire roasted and seeded (see note #1)
2 jalapeños, chopped
1 tbsp cumin powder
1 tbsp chopped epazote (or 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro)
1 tsp ground coriander
1 large bay leaf
1.5 qt (473 ml) chicken stock (see below)
salt to taste
lemon juice to taste
cayenne pepper to taste
1 large avocado, peeled, seeded, and cut into small cubes
1.5 cups shredded Wisconsin cheddar cheese
4 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips and fried crisp, for garnish
1 cooked whole chicken breast, skinless, boneless, and cut into thin strips

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Add tortillas and garlic and sauté until tortillas are crisp and garlic is golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Add onion purée and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until reduced by half.
Add tomato purée, roasted chilies, jalapeños, cumin, coriander, epazote, bay leaf, and chicken stock.
Bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer for approximately 40 minutes. Skim fat from surface, if necessary.
Process through a food mill to attain the perfect consistency or use a blender (soup may become thick; thin out with additional chicken stock).
Season to taste with salt, lemon, and cayenne (optional).
Ladle soup into warm bowls. Garnish each bowl with an equal portion of chicken breast, avocado, shredded cheese, and crisp tortilla strips. Serve immediately.

Variations

Add cooked black beans or corn kernels for extra texture and flavor.
Top the soup with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy finish.
For a smoky flavor, add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to the soup.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the perfect consistency for the soup, be sure to process it through a food mill or blender until smooth.

- Adjust the level of spiciness to your preference by adding more or less cayenne pepper.

- For a vegetarian version of this soup, simply omit the chicken breast and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Mansion on Turtle Creek Tortilla Soup with a side of warm tortillas or cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Techniques

Fire-roasting the chilies adds a depth of flavor to the soup.

- Sautéing the tortillas and garlic before adding the other ingredients helps to enhance their flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned fire-roasted tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes for a quicker preparation.

- Substitute vegetable stock for chicken stock for a vegetarian version of the soup.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Mansion on Turtle Creek Tortilla Soup in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, crispy tortilla strips, and a drizzle of fresh lime juice for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this flavorful soup with a crisp and refreshing salad, such as a classic Caesar salad or a tangy cucumber and tomato salad. For a heartier meal, serve with a side of grilled chicken or shrimp skewers.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 24g

- Dietary Fiber: 5g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 18g

- Saturated Fat: 5g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 15g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20%

- Vitamin C: 30%

- Calcium: 15%

- Iron: 10%

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheddar cheese)

- Contains gluten (tortillas)

Summary

The Mansion on Turtle Creek Tortilla Soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a good source of protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal option.

Summary

The Mansion on Turtle Creek Tortilla Soup is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its bold flavors and comforting warmth, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy it with family and friends for a memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for The Mansion on Turtle Creek Tortilla Soup. It was a hot summer day, and I was flipping through a magazine while sipping on a glass of iced tea. As soon as I laid eyes on the vibrant photo of the soup, I knew I had to try it. The colors were so bright and inviting, and I could almost taste the rich flavors just by looking at it.

I quickly scanned the ingredients list and realized that I had most of them already in my pantry. The only things I needed to pick up were some fresh tomatoes, avocados, and cilantro. I made a mental note to stop by the store on my way home from work the next day.

As soon as I got home, I grabbed my apron and got to work. I diced the onions and garlic, chopped the tomatoes and avocados, and shredded the chicken. The kitchen was filled with the wonderful aroma of sautéed onions and garlic, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.

I followed the recipe carefully, adding the chicken broth, spices, and shredded chicken to the pot. I let it simmer for a while, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich, flavorful broth. Finally, I added the fresh tomatoes and avocados, letting them cook just long enough to soften slightly.

As I ladled the soup into bowls, I couldn't help but admire the beautiful colors and textures. The vibrant red of the tomatoes, the creamy green of the avocados, and the golden strips of crispy tortilla strips on top. It truly was a work of art.

I took a tentative sip, and my taste buds exploded with flavor. The soup was rich and hearty, with a slight kick of spice that warmed me from the inside out. The creamy avocado added a nice contrast to the tangy tomatoes, and the crispy tortilla strips added a satisfying crunch.

I savored every spoonful, feeling a sense of satisfaction wash over me. This recipe was a true gem, and I knew it would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.

As I finished the last bite, I couldn't help but think back to all the recipes I had collected over the years. Each one had a story behind it, a memory attached to it. Whether it was a family recipe passed down through generations or a new discovery from a magazine, each recipe held a special place in my heart.

I realized that cooking wasn't just about following instructions and measurements. It was about creating something delicious and meaningful, something that brought joy and comfort to those who shared it. And with each new recipe I tried, I added a new chapter to my culinary journey.

So as I sat there, content and full from a bowl of delicious soup, I made a promise to myself to continue exploring new recipes, learning new techniques, and sharing the joy of cooking with my loved ones. And with each new dish I created, I knew that I was not just making food – I was creating memories that would last a lifetime.