This Southwest Tortilla Soup is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The rich tomato base, spiced with cumin and chili powder, is complemented by the crunch of tortilla chips and the creamy, fresh taste of avocado. It’s a satisfying and comforting dish that will keep you coming back for more.
This soup is incredibly versatile – feel free to adjust the spice level and toppings to your liking. The addition of sour cream adds a creamy touch, while the shredded cheddar cheese provides a nice balance of sharp flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it with friends or as a solo comfort meal, this soup is a winner.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
1 medium onion, chopped
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 teaspoon ground cumin
-
1 teaspoon chili powder
-
1/2 teaspoon ground oregano
-
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
-
1 can (14 oz) chicken broth
-
1 can (14 oz) water
-
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
-
1 lime, juiced
-
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
-
2 cups tortilla chips, crushed
-
1 avocado, sliced
-
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
-
Sour cream for garnish
Directions:
-
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
-
Stir in cumin, chili powder, and oregano, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
-
Add diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, water, and cilantro to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Add shredded rotisserie chicken to the pot, stirring to combine.
-
Crush tortilla chips and add them to the pot, allowing them to dissolve and thicken the soup, about 5 minutes.
-
Stir in lime juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with avocado slices, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 400 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Tortilla soup is a beloved comfort food, rich in flavor and tradition, with its roots firmly planted in the heart of Mexican cuisine. This versatile and satisfying dish combines fresh ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic, cilantro, and lime, with the delicious crunch of tortilla chips and the creamy, rich texture of avocado. The addition of rotisserie chicken makes this soup not only flavorful but also quick and easy to prepare, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
The Origins of Tortilla Soup
Tortilla soup, or sopa de tortilla, has deep roots in Mexican history. Originating in the central and southern regions of Mexico, the dish is traditionally made with a base of tomato and chili, seasoned with garlic, onion, and various herbs. The soup was originally designed to make use of leftover tortillas, which were fried into strips and used to thicken the broth. Over time, this humble soup evolved into a dish that could be easily customized with a variety of toppings, such as shredded chicken, cheese, and avocado.
In Mexico, tortilla soup is often enjoyed as a starter before the main course, but it’s just as satisfying as a stand-alone meal, thanks to its heartiness and bold flavors. Each region has its unique twist on the soup, but the essential components remain the same: a rich, tomato-based broth and crispy tortilla strips, which add both flavor and texture.
The Ingredients that Make Tortilla Soup Unique
What sets tortilla soup apart from other soups is its balance of textures and flavors. The foundation of the soup is a rich tomato broth, simmered with spices like cumin, chili powder, and oregano. These spices infuse the soup with deep, earthy heat, creating a warm and comforting base that is both savory and slightly spicy.
One of the standout features of tortilla soup is the crunchy tortilla strips that are incorporated into the soup. They serve to thicken the broth, giving the soup a heartier texture, while adding a bit of crispiness to each spoonful. These tortilla strips soak up the broth as they cook, adding more flavor to the soup. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also make your own homemade tortilla chips for a more authentic touch.
The addition of shredded rotisserie chicken is another element that gives the soup its heartiness. Rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds a depth of flavor from the seasoned skin and tender meat. If you don’t have rotisserie chicken on hand, you can use any cooked chicken, or even grilled chicken breast, for a leaner option.
But the toppings are where tortilla soup truly shines. A dollop of sour cream adds a tangy richness that complements the spiciness of the soup. Shredded cheddar cheese, or a combination of cheeses, melts into the hot soup, making every bite creamy and comforting. Fresh avocado slices add a cool, creamy contrast to the heat of the soup, while cilantro and a squeeze of lime elevate the flavors with a burst of freshness.
Variations on Tortilla Soup
While the classic tortilla soup recipe is already packed with flavor, there are plenty of ways to adapt it to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. For example, if you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken and replace it with additional vegetables like corn, zucchini, or sweet potatoes. Black beans or pinto beans can also be added for extra protein and fiber, making the soup even more filling.
For a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add some chopped fresh chilies, like jalapeños or serranos, to the soup. If you’re looking for a smoky flavor, try adding a chipotle pepper or a dash of smoked paprika.
For those following gluten-free or low-carb diets, this tortilla soup is already a great option, as the traditional tortilla chips can be substituted with gluten-free chips or even crispy roasted vegetables. The addition of avocado and chicken ensures that the soup remains rich and satisfying without the need for heavy starches.
Serving Tortilla Soup
Tortilla soup is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways, depending on the occasion. For a casual dinner, serve it with a side of warm cornbread or a simple green salad. If you’re serving it as part of a larger meal, it can be a great starter, followed by grilled steaks, tacos, or a traditional Mexican main course like enchiladas or fajitas.
When entertaining guests, tortilla soup is a fantastic choice because it’s easy to make in large batches and can be customized with a variety of toppings to suit individual tastes. Set up a tortilla soup toppings bar with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, fresh cilantro, and tortilla strips, and let everyone personalize their bowl.
This soup also makes great leftovers, as the flavors continue to meld and improve the next day. Simply reheat it on the stove, adding a little extra broth or water if the soup has thickened too much overnight. The toppings can be added fresh, ensuring that each bowl is as delicious as the first.
Nutritional Benefits of Tortilla Soup
Tortilla soup is not only flavorful, but it also offers a range of nutritional benefits. The combination of chicken, avocado, and vegetables provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a satisfying meal. The tomatoes and cilantro provide an abundance of vitamins and antioxidants, while the lime juice adds a dose of vitamin C to help boost your immune system.
By using a rotisserie chicken, you save time and still get a source of lean protein without the hassle of cooking chicken from scratch. The addition of avocado provides healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health, and the tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch and texture to the soup.
Conclusion:
Tortilla soup is more than just a bowl of comfort; it’s a celebration of Mexican flavors and ingredients. With its rich broth, hearty chicken, and crunchy tortilla chips, it’s a dish that satisfies both the soul and the stomach. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or a dish to share with friends and family, tortilla soup is a reliable and crowd-pleasing option.
What makes tortilla soup truly special is its versatility. You can easily adjust the recipe to accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences, while still maintaining the same satisfying taste. Whether you stick to the classic version with chicken and cheese or get creative with your toppings and variations, this soup is guaranteed to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Next time you’re craving a warm, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal, give this tortilla soup a try. It’s a bowl of happiness, perfect for any occasion, and one that will surely warm your heart and belly. So gather your ingredients, cook up a batch, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this beloved Mexican dish.