Tortilla Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the vibrant tastes of Mexico to your kitchen. This soup is a delightful blend of tender chicken, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic spices, all topped with crispy tortilla strips. It’s a hearty, warming meal that’s perfect for any time you need a little comfort in a bowl. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a starter for a Mexican-themed feast, this soup is sure to please. With its combination of rich flavors and crunchy textures, Tortilla Soup is a dish that will quickly become a family favorite.
Prepare the Base. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and jalapeño, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Season and Simmer. Stir in the ground cumin and chili powder, cooking for 1 minute to release the flavors. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, black beans, and corn. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
Add Chicken. Stir in the shredded chicken, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for another 5 minutes to heat the chicken through.
Prepare the Tortilla Strips. While the soup simmers, heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the tortilla strips until they are golden and crispy, then remove them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Serve. Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with the crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and, if desired, shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream.
Adjust the heat of the soup by adding more or less jalapeño, or even a dash of hot sauce if you like it spicier. For extra flavor, sprinkle a little chili powder on the tortilla strips before frying them. For a richer flavor, you can use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth to make this a vegetarian dish. You can also add extra beans or some sautéed mushrooms for added texture.