Image by J. R. Lopez

Tortilla soup

Tortilla soup is a zesty, robustly-flavored dish that is sure to please all diners. The warmth of the spices and the lightness of the broth make for a heavenly combination.

Tortilla soup


The key elements to a good Tortilla Soup are the flavorful broth, fresh vegetables and crunchy tortilla chips. To make it extra special all you need to add are succulent chicken pieces and spicy jalapeños. The end result is a succulent soup infused with the traditional Mexican flavors.

The process of making Tortilla Soup is delightfully simple. Start by sautéing diced onions and garlic in hot oil. Once the onion becomes translucent, add the chicken and cook until lightly browned. Next, add the chicken stock and simmer until the chicken is cooked through.

For the broth, use a good quality chicken stock and enhance it with a blend of herbs and spices such as cumin, oregano, paprika, chili powder and cayenne pepper. For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to compliment the heat of the peppers.

When the soup is almost done simmering, add the diced tomato, bell pepper, canned corn and black beans. Simmer until the vegetables are tender. Finally, add the jalapeños and serve with your favorite toppings such as diced avocado, sour cream and shredded cheese.

Tortilla Soup is best enjoyed with a generous helping of crispy tortilla chips and a few lime wedges. The acidity of the lime complements the warmth of the spices and adds a refreshing taste to the soup.

For an extra special twist, consider making baked tortilla bowls by cutting off the tops of flour tortillas and placing them in a preheated 350 degree oven for 10 minutes. These baked tortillas add a lovely crunch and make the perfect vessel for serving the soup.

Tortilla Soup makes a delightful meal any day of the week. It's quick and simple to make, and can be enjoyed alone or with a side of Spanish rice. No matter how you enjoy it, Tortilla Soup is sure to warm your heart!

The origin of Tortilla soup

Tortilla soup is a beloved dish that has its roots in the culinary traditions of Latin American countries, and it has become an international sensation. The exact origin of the soup remains enigmatic, but there are various theories that suggest an influence from Spanish and Mayan recipes.

Some say that the original recipe for tortilla soup was created by Spanish explorers when they touched base in Mexico. They made a broth from freshwater fish and vegetables, and seasoned it with spices grown in the New World. To make the soup more satiating and robust, they added corn tortillas to the mix. From this primitive combination, a dish full of flavor and character was born.

Others believe that the ancient Mayans developed a similar soup long ago. Historical records indicate that Mayans not only cultivated a variety of crops like corn, chilies, and beans, but also enjoyed a wide range of savory dishes. It would not be a surprise if they tried a combination of these ingredients in a soup form. As tortillas had been around in Central America since pre-Columbian times, it is plausible that their addition to the soup dates back centuries.

Regardless of the true origin of tortilla soup, one thing is certain: this traditional meal continues to tantalize the palates of food lovers around the globe. Whether prepared with chicken or beef, with a creamy or tomatillo base, the dish never fails to captivate. Its exquisite mixture of flavors and textures makes it hard to resist. With its mythic history and unbeatable taste, this timeless classic will remain a favorite for years to come.

FAQs about Tortilla soup

Does tortilla soup have a lot of carbs?

It depends on the recipe. Some tortilla soup recipes are high in carbohydrates due to the presence of ingredients like beans, rice, and noodles, while others may be lower in carbohydrates due to the use of low-carb ingredients such as celery, bell peppers, and mushrooms.


How do you thicken tortilla soup?

There are a few ways to thicken tortilla soup:

1. Add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a small amount of cold water).

2. Puree part of the soup in a blender or food processor and add it back to the pot.

3. Add some cooked rice or cooked potatoes to the soup.

4. Cook down some of the liquid until it has reduced and thickened.


Is Costco tortilla soup seasonal?

No, Costco tortilla soup is not a seasonal item. It is typically available year-round in the U.S.


What is Chicken Tortilla Soup made of?

Chicken Tortilla Soup is typically made with a broth base (chicken or beef are popular choices), diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, peppers, either shredded chicken or ground beef, seasonings (such as chili powder and cumin), broth, and either corn tortillas strips or crushed tortilla chips. Garnishes of cheese, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro are usually served on top.


Types of Tortilla soup

With its rich flavor, spiciness, and unique variety of ingredients, Tortilla Soup is a classic Mexican dish beloved by many. Perfect for any season or occasion, this traditional recipe has been passed down through generations of cooks and foodies alike.

For centuries, tortilla soup has been a staple in Mexican cuisine. Typically made with fried tortilla strips, tomatoes, garlic, onion, cilantro, and chili peppers, this aromatic soup is full of flavor and incredibly versatile. You can alter the recipe to suit your personal tastes, or experiment and create something entirely new by adding in your favorite ingredients.

Tortilla soup can be prepared in various ways, each depending on the ingredients used. The classic version consists of shredded chicken, stewed tomatoes, garlic, onion, oregano, and cilantro. This is the base recipe for which you can add beans, chorizo, corn, cheese, avocados, and a variety of spices and herbs to give it unique flavor and complexity. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use a vegetable stock instead of chicken broth and omit the meat.

In terms of flavor, tortilla soup is perfect for those who prefer a spicier, savory dish. And if you’re not a fan of spice, you can always dial down the heat by omitting the chili peppers or reducing the amount of cilantro and oregano.

There are two main types of tortilla soup. The first is “blanco,” which is a creamy soup made with a mixture of chicken broth, cream, and soft tortillas. This version of the soup is often topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, and fried tortilla strips for extra texture and flavor.

The other type of tortilla soup is “amarillo,” which is a more hearty chili-like soup made with a tomato-based broth, potatoes, and beef or pork. Chorizo and bell peppers are also often included in this recipe, along with cumin, oregano, and other spices. This version is usually served with a side of rice or beans, and it tastes great with a few fresh lime slices.

Tortilla soup is a nutritious and delicious option for lunch or dinner. It’s easy to make and satisfying, so you can enjoy it any day of the week. Whether you prefer a classic recipe or like to experiment with different ingredients, tortilla soup is sure to delight all of your taste buds.