Are you looking for a cozy and delicious meal that warms the soul? This taco soup recipe is the perfect combination of spices, beans, and vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying choice for lunch or dinner. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 cup chopped onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This taco soup recipe yields about 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of taco soup contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 8g
– Fiber: 10g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat from the meat.
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the pot and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, ensuring it coats the meat and vegetables evenly.
- Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and corn to the pot.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
- Enjoy your delicious taco soup!
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize this taco soup by using ground chicken or veggie crumbles instead of beef. Additionally, if you prefer fresh ingredients, swap canned beans for cooked dry beans. You can also add fresh corn or diced zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Taco soup pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, sour cream, and shredded cheese. You can also serve it with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover taco soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stove until heated through. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not draining canned beans or corn, which can make the soup too watery.
- Overcooking the vegetables, resulting in mushiness.
- Forgetting to season the soup, which can lead to bland flavors.
- Using too much taco seasoning; start with less and adjust to taste.
- Skipping the simmering step; this enhances the flavors.
- Not tasting the soup before serving; adjust seasoning as needed.
Helpful Tips
- Make it a day ahead for even better flavor.
- Add avocado slices just before serving for creaminess.
- Use low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
- Experiment with different beans for variety.
- Top with jalapeños for a spicy kick.
FAQs
Can I make taco soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
Is taco soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free taco seasoning and broth.
Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add zucchini, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
How spicy is taco soup?
The spice level can be adjusted by using mild or hot taco seasoning and adding fresh jalapeños as desired.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes; just chop them and add them to the soup, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Conclusion
This taco soup recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that is sure to please everyone at the table. With its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, it is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a warm bowl of this comforting soup today!
Taco Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can black beans rinsed and drained
- 1 can kidney beans rinsed and drained
- 1 can corn drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 cup chopped onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat from the meat.
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the pot and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, ensuring it coats the meat and vegetables evenly.
- Add diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and corn to the pot.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
- Enjoy your delicious taco soup!
Nutrition
