Tortilla Soup recipe : Spicy and Full of Mexican Flavors

Tortilla soup is a hearty and vibrant Mexican classic, bursting with bold flavors from tomatoes, chilies, and spices, then topped with crispy tortilla strips. This comforting soup is perfect for any occasion and can be customized with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 jalapeño or serrano chili, finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (optional, for added protein)
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lime

For the Tortilla Strips:

• 4-6 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt, to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Diced avocado
• Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sliced radishes
• Extra lime wedges

Steps to Prepare:

1. Make the Tortilla Strips:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss the tortilla strips with vegetable oil and a pinch of salt.
3. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until crispy and golden, stirring halfway through. Set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and chili, cooking for another minute.

3. Build the Base:

1. Add the cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, stirring to coat the vegetables in the spices.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes and broth, stirring to combine.

4. Simmer the Soup:

1. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
2. If using, add the shredded chicken, corn, and black beans during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
3. Stir in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve and Garnish:

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips.
2. Add your favorite toppings, such as avocado, cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.
3. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for the Best Tortilla Soup:

• Customize the Protein: Use cooked chicken, shredded beef, or keep it vegetarian by adding extra beans or roasted vegetables.
• Broth Choice: Chicken broth adds a rich flavor, but vegetable broth works wonderfully for a vegetarian version.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer chilies. You can also include a dash of hot sauce if desired.
• Make Ahead: The soup can be made ahead of time and reheated. Store the tortilla strips separately to keep them crispy.

Tortilla soup is the perfect balance of warmth, spice, and comfort, ideal for a cozy meal or a gathering with friends. Pair it with fresh guacamole and chips for a complete Mexican-inspired feast. Enjoy!