Tortilla Soup I

Vegetarian Tortilla Soup Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Tortilla soup is a traditional Mexican dish that is both hearty and flavorful. This soup is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests. The combination of vegetables, spices, and tortilla strips creates a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Tortilla soup has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in central Mexico, where it was created as a way to use up leftover tortillas. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of ingredients such as tomatoes, corn, and chiles. Today, tortilla soup is enjoyed all over the world for its rich flavors and comforting qualities.

Ingredients

1.5 cups red onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp olive oil
0.25 cup green chiles
1 tsp cumin
6 cups vegetable stock
1.5 cups frozen corn
1 can (14.5 oz (411 g)) stewed tomatoes, regular or mexican-style
5 corn tortillas
0.5 cup monterey jack cheese, shredded
fresh cilantro for garnish

How to prepare

In a 4-5 qt (4.73 liter) pan, heat oil over medium-high heat and sauté onions and garlic until they become limp, which should take about 6 minutes.
If necessary, add a small amount of water to prevent sticking.
Add chiles and cumin to the pan and stir for 30 seconds. Then, incorporate broth, corn, and tomatoes into the mixture.
Cover the pan and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes.
Cut tortillas into bite-size strips and place them into soup bowls.
Pour the soup on top of the tortilla strips, sprinkle with cheese, and garnish with cilantro.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Use different types of beans such as black beans or pinto beans for added texture and flavor.
Spice up your soup with additional chili powder or hot sauce for a fiery kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To add an extra kick to your tortilla soup, try adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving.

- For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup mixture in a blender before adding the tortilla strips.

- Customize your soup by adding your favorite toppings such as avocado, sour cream, or jalapeños.

Serving Suggestions

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

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the broth helps to develop the flavors of the soup.

- Simmering the soup allows the ingredients to meld together and create a rich and flavorful broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

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

- Substitute corn tortillas with flour tortillas for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Garnish your tortilla soup with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a wedge of lime for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair tortilla soup with a crisp and refreshing beer or a glass of chilled white wine for a perfect combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover tortilla soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 32g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 7g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 8g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% of daily value per serving

Vitamin C: 20% of daily value per serving

Calcium: 15% of daily value per serving

Iron: 10% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheese)

Summary

Tortilla soup is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good source of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Tortilla soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a satisfying meal that is sure to please your taste buds. Enjoy this traditional Mexican soup with your favorite toppings and sides for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a hot summer day many years ago when I first tasted Tortilla Soup at a small Mexican restaurant in the heart of Tucson, Arizona. The flavors of the soup were so rich and vibrant, each spoonful bursting with the perfect blend of spices and textures. It was love at first bite.

I was determined to recreate this delicious soup at home, so I asked the waitress for the recipe. She smiled and told me that it was a family secret, passed down from generation to generation. But she could tell that I was a fellow food lover, so she agreed to share the basics with me.

I hurried home with the notes scribbled on a napkin, eager to get started on my culinary adventure. I gathered all the ingredients – chicken broth, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and of course, tortilla strips – and set to work in my tiny kitchen.

The soup simmered on the stove, filling the room with the tantalizing aroma of cumin and chili powder. I couldn't resist sneaking a taste, and my taste buds danced with delight. It was almost perfect, but something was missing.

I called up my friend Maria, who was a whiz in the kitchen, and begged her to come over and taste my creation. She took one bite and nodded approvingly, but then she suggested adding a squeeze of lime juice and a dollop of sour cream to balance out the flavors.

I followed her advice, and when I took another taste, I knew I had hit the jackpot. The soup was heavenly, a symphony of flavors that danced on my tongue. I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my family and friends.

Over the years, I have made Tortilla Soup countless times, each batch a little different from the last. Sometimes I add extra veggies like corn and black beans, or a handful of shredded chicken for extra protein. I've even experimented with different types of cheese and garnishes, but the basic recipe remains the same.

One day, I was visiting my dear friend Rosa, who was battling cancer. She was feeling weak and tired, so I offered to cook her favorite soup for her. As I stirred the pot, I thought back to that fateful day in Tucson when I first tasted Tortilla Soup. I knew that this soup had the power to heal and comfort, to bring people together in a shared love of good food.

When the soup was ready, I ladled out a steaming bowl for Rosa, garnishing it with a sprinkle of cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. She took a hesitant sip, her eyes lighting up with joy. "This tastes just like the soup from my favorite restaurant in Mexico City," she whispered.

That moment was a revelation for me. I realized that food has the power to evoke memories and emotions, to transport us to faraway places and times. I knew then that sharing my recipes with others was not just about feeding their bodies, but nourishing their souls as well.

As the years passed, I have continued to make Tortilla Soup for my family and friends, passing down this beloved recipe to the next generation. It has become a staple in our household, a dish that is always greeted with smiles and empty bowls.

And so, dear reader, I hope you will take this recipe and make it your own. Experiment with different ingredients, add your own special touch. But most importantly, share it with those you love, and let the magic of food bring you closer together. Bon appétit!