Why You’ll Love This Vegetarian Tortilla Soup Recipe
When you crave something warm and comforting, this Vegetarian Tortilla Soup hits the spot perfectly.
I love how it combines rich flavors and a satisfying texture that warms me from the inside out. The blend of spices creates a delightful aroma that fills my kitchen, making me feel right at home.
Plus, it’s easy to whip up, allowing me to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Each bowl is a celebration of freshness and warmth, and I always find myself going back for seconds.
Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home too!
Ingredients of Vegetarian Tortilla Soup
When it comes to making a delicious Vegetarian Tortilla Soup, having the right ingredients on hand is key. This recipe isn’t only packed with flavor, but it’s also simple to make with ingredients you might already have in your pantry.
Let’s dive right into what you’ll need to whip up this comforting bowl of goodness.
Here’s a handy list of the ingredients you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons corn oil
- 3 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 jalapeno pepper, minced
- 2 (15 ounce) cans plum tomatoes
- 7 cups vegetable broth
- 3 teaspoons ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Now, before you start cooking, let’s talk about the ingredients a bit more. If you’re not a fan of spice, you can totally adjust the amount of jalapeno pepper based on your preference.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding in some other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for an extra boost of nutrition. As for the tortillas, don’t worry if they’re not perfectly cut; rustic edges add character to the soup.
And if you want to make this recipe even more special, consider topping your soup with some avocado slices, fresh cilantro, or a sprinkle of cheese. It’s all about making it your own, right?
Just remember, the beauty of cooking is that it’s less about following rules and more about enjoying the process—just like when I tried to impress my friends with a fancy dinner and ended up spilling soup everywhere.
But hey, that’s a story for another time!
How to Make Vegetarian Tortilla Soup
Let’s get started on making this delicious Vegetarian Tortilla Soup. First things first, grab your 2 tablespoons of corn oil and heat it up in a soup pot over medium heat. You want to get that oil nice and warm, just like your favorite cozy blanket on a chilly evening.
Once it’s ready, toss in your 3 corn tortillas that you’ve cut into thin strips. Cook those tortilla strips until they’re slightly crisp—think of them as the crunchy little cheerleaders for your soup. Once they’re golden and happy, remove them from the oil and set them aside.
Now, on to the fragrant magic! In the same pot, add in 2 garlic cloves, a chopped medium onion, and a minced jalapeno pepper. Can you smell that? It’s the smell of deliciousness! Sauté this mixture for about 5 minutes, allowing it to soften and mingle.
Then, grab your 2 cans of plum tomatoes—those 15-ounce beauties—and add them into the pot. Let everything simmer together for about 15 minutes. Now, it’s time for the secret ingredient: 3 teaspoons of ground cumin. This spice is like a warm hug for your soup.
Afterward, slowly pour in 7 cups of vegetable broth, stirring it all together. Allow it to simmer until it’s reduced by one-third; this might take a little patience, but good things come to those who wait, right?
Once the soup has thickened up nicely, it’s time to get blending. Carefully puree the soup until it’s extremely smooth—think silky, not chunky. You want it to be like a velvety dream in a bowl.
Finally, season it to taste with salt and pepper. Serve your soup hot, topped with those crispy tortilla strips you set aside, some creamy avocado slices, a sprinkle of cheese if you like, and fresh cilantro for that pop of color.
Enjoy your creation as you settle in for a cozy meal, hopefully without any soup spills this time. Cooking can be messy, but it’s all about the journey, right?
Vegetarian Tortilla Soup Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve whipped up that delicious Vegetarian Tortilla Soup, you might find yourself wanting to mix things up a bit. I love experimenting with different ingredients!
You can swap out corn tortillas for flour ones or even use tortilla chips for a crunchy twist. Try adding black beans or chickpeas for extra protein. If you’re in the mood for some spice, toss in diced bell peppers or a splash of hot sauce.
For a creamier texture, I sometimes add coconut milk. Don’t forget to play with toppings—fresh lime, jalapeños, or even a dollop of sour cream can elevate your soup!
Additional Tips & Notes
A few tips can really enhance your Vegetarian Tortilla Soup experience. First, don’t skip the toppings—they add flavor and texture! I love adding sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of cheese for richness.
For an extra kick, try adding more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a heartier soup, toss in some black beans or corn.
Make sure to blend the soup until it’s silky smooth; that’s key for a great mouthfeel.
Finally, this soup reheats beautifully, so make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week!