Tortilla soup, or Sopa Azteca, is a vibrant and flavorful Mexican classic that's both comforting and surprisingly easy to make. This isn't your average broth-and-tortilla affair; authentic tortilla soup boasts a rich depth of flavor built on layers of roasted chiles, savory tomatoes, and aromatic spices. The perfect balance of textures – from the crisp tortilla strips to the tender chicken or vegetables – makes every spoonful a delightful experience. Forget bland, watery soups; this recipe delivers a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for a chilly evening or a festive gathering.
This authentic recipe takes you beyond the basics, guiding you through the process of creating a truly memorable bowl of tortilla soup. We'll cover everything from roasting the chiles for maximum flavor to building the perfect broth and layering the toppings for the ultimate sensory experience. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to Mexico? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Blender
- Frying pan
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: 1 whole
- Chicken legs: 4
- Onion: 3 tbsp
- Garlic: 5 cloves
- Lemons: 2
- Celery stick: 1
- Cilantro: 1 bunch
- Tomatoes: 6
- Guajillo chilies: 2
- Chipotle chili: 1 (or to taste)
- Avocados: 2
- Corn tortillas: 1 kg (approx. 24 tortillas)
- Dried epazote: 3 sprigs
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 ½ cups (grated)
- Fresh cheese: 415g
- Cream for tacos
- Salt: 2 tbsp + ½ tsp (or to taste)
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Chicken and Broth
- Rinse chicken with lemon juice and salt to remove strong smell . Let it sit for 20 minutes . Rinse again .
- Boil chicken with onion, celery, cilantro, and garlic until cooked .
- Shred the cooked chicken .
Step 2. Make the Tomato Base
- Fry tomatoes, onion, guajillo chilies, and garlic . Add water and simmer until cool enough to blend .
- Blend the fried tomato mixture .
- Fry the blended tomato mixture .
- Add the chicken broth and epazote to the tomato sauce. Simmer until flavors meld . Season with salt as needed .
Step 3. Crisp the Tortillas
- Cut tortillas into thin strips .
- Fry tortilla strips until golden brown .
Step 4. Assemble and Serve
- Layer chicken, tortilla strips, broth, fresh cheese, mozzarella cheese, and chipotle chili in bowls .
Read more: Creamy Caldo de Papa Recipe: Easy Mexican Potato Soup
Tips
- Adjust the amount of chipotle chili to your spice preference .
- This recipe is also known as Aztec soup .
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh tomatoes will give you a richer, brighter flavor. If using canned, drain them well before adding to the pot.
2. What kind of chiles should I use?
Ancho chiles are traditional and provide a deep, smoky flavor. You can substitute with other dried chiles, but adjust the amount depending on their heat level.
3. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or corn for a hearty vegetarian version.
This authentic tortilla soup recipe delivers a taste of Mexico right to your kitchen table. With its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, it's a dish you'll want to make again and again. Now grab a bowl, ladle yourself a generous portion, and savor the delicious results of your culinary adventure!