Tortilla soup, a beloved Mexican dish, is a rich and flavorful comfort food that blends the warm, hearty elements of a savory broth with the crispy, zesty texture of fried tortillas. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to dive right in with a spoon and feel the warmth spread through you-like a hug in a bowl. What makes tortilla soup so irresistible isn’t just its combination of spicy, savory, and tangy notes, but also the way it combines textures. The crispy tortilla strips mixed into the broth add a beautiful contrast to the smooth, hearty base, creating a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite.
This dish is both simple and adaptable. It can be made vegetarian, packed with chicken, or even topped with cheese, avocado, and sour cream for that extra indulgence. But the best part? It’s so easy to make at home, especially when you know exactly what goes into it. With the right ingredients and a few expert tips, you’ll be able to whip up a restaurant-quality tortilla soup in your own kitchen.
So, whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner, a dish to impress guests, or just craving something filling and flavorful, this Tortilla Soup Recipe will be your new go-to.
5 Can Tortilla Soup Recipe
If you’re pressed for time but still want something rich and comforting, this 5 Can Tortilla Soup recipe will come to the rescue. It’s the shortcut to a delicious, satisfying tortilla soup without compromising on flavor.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to make this quick and easy version of tortilla soup, using just five cans as the base.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 can of corn kernels (15 oz)
- 1 can of black beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1 can of chicken broth (15 oz) or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
- 1 can of green chilies (4 oz)
- Optional garnishes: crispy tortilla strips, avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro
Cooking Instructions
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Prepare The Base
- In a large pot, combine the diced tomatoes, corn kernels, black beans, and green chilies. Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you prefer).
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Bring It To A Simmer
- Heat over medium-high heat until the soup starts to simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gives all the flavors a chance to meld together.
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Add The Tortilla Strips
- While the soup is simmering, take a handful of tortillas (corn tortillas work best), cut them into strips, and fry them until crispy in a little bit of oil. You can also bake them for a healthier version if you prefer.
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Garnish And Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls, then top with the crispy tortilla strips and any additional garnishes like avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. For an extra kick, you can sprinkle some chili powder or a squeeze of lime.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the ingredients behind a great tortilla soup helps you elevate the dish, making each bite burst with flavor.
- Diced Tomatoes: These provide the essential base for the soup’s broth, giving it a slight sweetness and tanginess that blends well with the savory flavors.
- Corn Kernels: Adds sweetness and a delightful crunch, making it a more textured, satisfying soup.
- Black Beans: Rich in fiber and protein, black beans give the soup an earthy depth and a satisfying substance, turning it into a more hearty meal.
- Green Chilies: These are key to adding a little heat and a lot of flavor. Their subtle spiciness gives the soup a nice kick without being overpowering.
- Chicken Broth: It forms the core of the soup, providing that rich, savory undertone that ties everything together.
Expert Tips
To take your tortilla soup to the next level, here are some expert tips you’ll want to keep in mind:
- Enhance with Spices: While the canned ingredients offer a good base, adding a pinch of cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika can truly elevate the flavor. Just a little bit goes a long way in adding depth to the broth.
- Texture Matters: Don’t skip on the crispy tortilla strips! The contrast between the soft broth and the crunchy tortillas is part of what makes tortilla soup so irresistible. If you can’t find pre-made tortilla strips, you can easily make your own by slicing up some corn tortillas and frying or baking them.
- Add Protein: For a heartier version, consider adding shredded rotisserie chicken or cubed chicken breast. If you’re not into chicken, try shredded beef or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Toppings Are Key: The toppings can make or break this soup. Add a squeeze of lime juice for freshness, creamy avocado for richness, a handful of cilantro for freshness, and some shredded cheese to melt into the broth. Sour cream also balances out the heat beautifully.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Tortilla Soup: Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and omit any animal-based ingredients like chicken. Add in extra veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms for a more wholesome veggie-packed soup.
- Spicy Tortilla Soup: If you love heat, add more green chilies or toss in a diced jalapeño. You could even add a bit of hot sauce for an extra fiery kick.
- Creamy Tortilla Soup: Blend some of the soup to create a creamier texture and top it with a dollop of sour cream or even cream cheese for a velvety smooth finish.
- Cheesy Tortilla Soup: Stir in some shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work great) directly into the soup for a cheesy, comforting twist. Alternatively, top with cheese and let it melt on top for a gooey finish.
- Slow Cooker Version: If you prefer slow cooking, throw everything into the slow cooker in the morning and let it simmer on low for 6-8 hours. Add the tortilla strips and garnishes when you’re ready to serve.
Final Words
Tortilla soup is the kind of dish that offers comfort without feeling heavy, making it perfect for any season. With its rich broth, crispy tortillas, and endless variation options, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any meal. What’s great about this 5 Can Tortilla Soup recipe is that it strips away the complexity but retains all the authentic flavors and textures that make this dish so beloved.
So, next time you’re craving something filling, flavorful, and downright comforting, grab those cans from your pantry and let this easy recipe work its magic.