One popular and flavorful Mexican soup is “Sopa de Tortilla,” also known as Tortilla Soup. It’s a rich and comforting soup with a tomato-based broth, vegetables, and crispy tortilla strips. Here’s a simple recipe for making Mexican Tortilla Soup:
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For Garnish:
- Corn tortillas, cut into strips
- Avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Sour cream or Mexican crema
- Grated cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Instructions:
- Prepare Tortilla Strips:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the tortilla strips on a baking sheet, spray or brush them with oil, and bake until they are crispy and golden brown, about 10-12 minutes.
- Make the Soup Base:
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent. Add minced garlic and jalapeño, and sauté for an additional minute.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn kernels. Stir in ground cumin and chili powder. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
- Pour in Broth:
- Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the soup to a simmer, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Season and Add Lime Juice:
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Squeeze in the juice of one lime and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- Garnish:
- Top each serving with crispy tortilla strips, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, a lime wedge, a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema, and grated cheese.
- Enjoy:
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Mexican Tortilla Soup!
This soup is not only tasty but also versatile, allowing you to customize the toppings to suit your preferences. It’s a satisfying and comforting dish that captures the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine.
