Tortilla soup

Sopa de tortilla con chicharron de real del monte

Tortilla Soup

Sopa Azteca

Tortilla soup is a traditional Mexican dish known for its rich and flavorful broth, typically made with tomato (or tomato paste), garlic, onion, and chili peppers. The soup is often garnished with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, cheese, and sour cream. It is a popular comfort food in Mexico and has various regional variations.

Ingredients

The primary ingredients of tortilla soup include:

• Tomatoes or tomato paste
• Garlic
• Onion
• Chili peppers (such as pasilla, ancho, or chipotle)
• Chicken broth or vegetable broth
• Tortilla strips
• Avocado
• Cheese (such as queso fresco or cheddar)
• Sour cream
• Cilantro
• Lime juice

Preparation

The preparation of tortilla soup typically involves the following steps: 1. Sautéing: Garlic and onions are sautéed in oil until they are soft and fragrant. 2. Blending: Tomatoes and chili peppers are blended to create a smooth base. 3. Simmering: The tomato-chili mixture is added to the sautéed onions and garlic, then simmered with broth to develop the flavors. 4. Garnishing: The soup is served hot, garnished with crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Variations

There are several regional variations of tortilla soup, including:

• Chicken Tortilla Soup: Includes shredded chicken for added protein.
• Vegetarian Tortilla Soup: Uses vegetable broth and omits meat.
• Seafood Tortilla Soup: Incorporates seafood such as shrimp or fish.

Cultural Significance

Tortilla soup is a staple in Mexican households and is often enjoyed as a starter or main course. It is particularly popular during the colder months due to its warming and comforting qualities. The dish is also a common offering in Mexican restaurants around the world.

Related Pages

• Mexican cuisine
• Tomato
• Chili pepper
• Tortilla
• Avocado
• Cheese
• Sour cream
• Cilantro
• Lime