Hearty Vegetable Tortilla Soup Recipe
Introduction
Immerse yourself in the comforting warmth of this Hearty Vegetable Tortilla Soup, a vibrant and nutritious dish that marries the bold flavors of Mexico with fresh, wholesome ingredients. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this soup is not just delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to your meal repertoire. Each bowl is a delightful combination of textures and tastes, topped with crispy tortillas and creamy avocado that elevate the experience to new heights. This recipe will guide you through the process of crafting this colorful soup, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor and love.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced |
| Onion | 1, diced |
| Pickled Jalapeños | ½, finely chopped |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chili Sauce | ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste) |
| Sweet Corn | 1 cup |
| Green Zucchini | 2, sliced |
| Bell Peppers (Red, Yellow, Green) | ½ cup, sliced into thin strips |
| Canned Black Beans | 250 grams, drained and rinsed |
| Tomatoes | 2, diced |
| Vegetable Stock | 4 cups |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper Powder | To taste |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Tomato | 1½, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 6 cloves, minced |
| Pickled Jalapeños | ½, finely chopped |
| Tortillas | 50 grams |
| Avocado | 2, diced |
| Fresh Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | A small bunch |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Total Fat | 5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 8 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
Preparation Time
| Task | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 |
| Cook Time | 30 |
| Total Time | 50 |
Instructions
-
Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating the extra virgin olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until shimmering. Once hot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and finely chopped pickled jalapeño. Sauté these ingredients for about 3 minutes, or until they soften and release their aromatic fragrances, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. -
-
Combine the Base Ingredients
After the aromatics are nicely softened, stir in the cumin powder, allowing it to bloom in the oil for a minute before adding the chopped tomatoes, sliced zucchini, thinly sliced bell peppers, and sweet corn. Pour in the water and vegetable stock, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. -
Simmer and Thicken the Soup
Let the soup simmer for approximately 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Next, incorporate the drained and rinsed black beans along with the red chili sauce, adjusting the amount based on your spice preference. Continue to cook for an additional 13 minutes, stirring occasionally until the soup has thickened slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, enhancing the flavor profile to your liking. -
Prepare the Pico de Gallo
While the soup is cooking, prepare the pico de gallo. In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped onion, diced tomato, minced garlic, and remaining chopped pickled jalapeño. Add salt and black pepper to taste, mixing well to integrate all the ingredients. Set this mixture aside to let the flavors develop while you finish the soup. -
Assemble the Soup
To serve, take a soup bowl and crumble a few pieces of tortilla chips at the bottom. Add some diced avocado on top, then ladle 2 servings of the hearty vegetable soup over the chips and avocado. Garnish generously with the prepared pico de gallo, additional avocado pieces, and a sprinkling of fresh coriander leaves to enhance the presentation and flavor. -
Serve and Enjoy
This Hearty Vegetable Tortilla Soup is best enjoyed with a side of crusty bread, such as focaccia, which is perfect for dipping and savoring every drop of the flavorful soup. Each bite will transport you to the heart of Mexican cuisine, bringing warmth and comfort to your table.
Tips for a Perfect Soup
- Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to substitute or add your favorite vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference. Ingredients like carrots, celery, or even spinach can elevate the nutritional content further.
- Make it Spicy: If you enjoy heat, consider adding more pickled jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the soup for an extra kick.
- Garnish Options: Besides avocado and pico de gallo, consider toppings like crumbled queso fresco, a dollop of sour cream, or additional cilantro for added flavor and texture.
This Hearty Vegetable Tortilla Soup is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a colorful feast for the eyes, offering a comforting and hearty option for those seeking a nutritious vegetarian meal that warms the soul. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish, and share the love it brings with family and friends!
