Sopa de tortilla is a comforting Mexican soup that combines rich flavors and textures, making it a beloved dish across the country. With its crispy tortilla strips, fresh avocado, and aromatic spices, this soup is not only delicious but also nourishing. Perfect for chilly evenings or as an appetizer, it’s a dish that brings warmth and joy to every table.
Ingredients
– 4 corn tortillas
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh avocado slices
– Crumbled queso fresco
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approx. 1.5 cups) contains approximately:
– Calories: 300
– Protein: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Dietary Fiber: 6g
– Fat: 12g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Cut the corn tortillas into thin strips.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add tortilla strips and fry until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. In the same pot, sauté onions until translucent.
5. Add minced garlic and chopped jalapeño, cooking for another minute.
6. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and bring to a boil.
7. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cumin, seasoning with salt and pepper.
8. Simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
9. Ladle soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips.
10. Garnish with fresh avocado slices, queso fresco, and cilantro.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute corn tortillas with flour tortillas for a different texture. Additionally, use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, and feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Sopa de tortilla pairs wonderfully with fresh lime wedges, a side of Mexican rice, or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover sopa de tortilla in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. This soup can be frozen, but it’s best to add tortilla strips fresh upon serving.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the tortillas; they should be crispy, not soggy.
– Avoid adding too much salt at the beginning; adjust to taste later.
– Ensure the broth is well-seasoned for optimal flavor.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
– Don’t skip the garnishes; they enhance the flavor and presentation.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, roast the tomatoes before adding them to the soup.
– Experiment with different toppings like sour cream or radishes.
– If you like spice, include more jalapeños or add a dash of hot sauce.
– Make a big batch; this soup is perfect for leftovers!
FAQs
What is sopa de tortilla?
Sopa de tortilla is a traditional Mexican soup made with a flavorful broth, tortilla strips, and various toppings like avocado, cheese, and cilantro. It’s a hearty dish often enjoyed as a starter or main course.
Can I make sopa de tortilla vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any meat. The soup remains flavorful with the right spices and toppings.
How can I make it spicier?
To add heat, include more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer extra spice.
Can I freeze sopa de tortilla?
Yes, you can freeze the soup without the tortilla strips. Reheat and add fresh strips when you’re ready to serve.
What toppings can I use for sopa de tortilla?
Common toppings include avocado, queso fresco, sour cream, cilantro, and lime wedges. Feel free to get creative with your favorites!
Conclusion
Sopa de tortilla is an iconic Mexican dish that not only warms the body but also delights the palate. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it a versatile option for any meal. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger feast, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Sopa De Tortilla
Ingredients
- 4 corn tortillas
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 jalapeño chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh avocado slices
- Crumpled queso fresco
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Cut the corn tortillas into thin strips.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add tortilla strips and fry until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In the same pot, sauté onions until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and chopped jalapeño, cooking for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and cumin, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Ladle soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips.
- Garnish with fresh avocado slices, queso fresco, and cilantro.
Nutrition
