How to Prepare a Traditional Mexican Tortilla Soup for Lunch
Tortilla soup is a classic Mexican dish that warms the heart and soul with its rich flavors and comforting components. It’s a perfect lunch option if you’re looking for something delicious, hearty, and traditional. The beauty of tortilla soup lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor that comes from its ingredients. Whether it’s a chilly day or you’re just in the mood for some authentic Mexican cuisine, tortilla soup is a fantastic choice. Here’s how you can prepare this traditional meal for lunch.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 jalapeño (optional, for some heat), seeded and minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 1 avocado, pitted, peeled, and diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
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Starting with the Base: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and jalapeño (if using) to the pot, and continue to cook for another 2 minutes, or until fragrant. Sprinkle in the cumin and stir well, letting the spices toast slightly for about a minute.
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Building the Soup: Pour the diced tomatoes with their juice into the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Adding the Protein: Add the drained black beans and the shredded chicken breast to the pot. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything simmer together for another 10 minutes, occasionally stirring. This step integrates the flavors and heats the chicken and beans thoroughly.
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Preparing the Tortillas: While the soup is simmering, it’s time to prepare the tortilla strips. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the corn tortillas into thin strips and spread them out on a baking sheet. Bake in the oven until crispy, about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.
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Serving the Soup: Once the soup is hearty and flavored to your liking, it’s ready to serve. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each one with a generous handful of crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, shredded cheddar cheese, and a little fresh cilantro. Offer lime wedges on the side, allowing each person to add a squeeze of lime juice to their soup for a bright burst of flavor.
Additional Serving Suggestions:
Tortilla soup is incredibly versatile, and you can customize it according to your taste. Some people enjoy adding a dollop of sour cream on top, while others may prefer adding more vegetables like corn or zucchini into the soup itself. The key is to make it your own and have fun with the toppings.
Conclusion:
Preparing traditional Mexican tortilla soup for lunch is an enjoyable and rewarding process that results in a flavorful, comforting meal. This soup has stood the test of time due to its simplicity, rich flavors, and the heartiness it brings to the table. It’s a great way to introduce traditional Mexican cuisine into your lunch routine and is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this tortilla soup is a delightful choice that epitomizes the warmth and spirit of Mexican cooking. Enjoy your culinary journey and the delicious tastes it brings!
