Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul! Our "Meatless Monday Anything Goes Tortilla Soup" is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that will have you craving more. Packed with hearty ingredients and vibrant spices, this Mexican-inspired dish is perfect for those busy weeknights or when you're simply looking to enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a delicious soup that serves four, making it the ideal choice for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Ready to dive into a recipe that promises satisfaction and a burst of flavor? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can mixed beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Corn tortillas, cut into strips
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients on the countertop for easy access.
- In a large pot, heat a splash of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper to the pot. Continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bell pepper softens.
- Stir in the cumin and chili powder, allowing the spices to toast for about 1 minute. This will enhance their flavors.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the drained mixed beans. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
- While the soup is simmering, prepare the tortilla strips. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the tortilla strips on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Lightly spray or drizzle the tortilla strips with oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown.
- After the soup has simmered for 20 minutes, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may add salt, pepper, or additional spices based on your preference.
- Once the tortilla strips are ready, remove them from the oven and set aside.
- To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and top with a generous handful of crispy tortilla strips. You can also add optional toppings such as avocado, cilantro, or lime juice for extra flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious Meatless Monday Anything Goes Tortilla Soup!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and gather your ingredients before you start cooking. This will streamline the process and make it more enjoyable!
- Customize Your Beans: Feel free to mix and match your beans! Black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans all work wonderfully in this recipe, so use whatever you have on hand.
- Spice It Up: If you like your soup with a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.
- Fresh Herbs: For a burst of freshness, garnish your soup with chopped cilantro or parsley just before serving. A squeeze of lime juice can also brighten the flavors beautifully.
- Tortilla Variations: While corn tortillas are traditional, you can experiment with flour tortillas or even tortilla chips for a different texture and flavor.
- Simmer for Flavor: Don’t rush the simmering step! Allowing the soup to simmer for the full 20 minutes will help all the flavors meld together, resulting in a richer taste.
- Make It a Meal: Add some diced avocado or a dollop of sour cream on top for creaminess, or serve it with a side of crusty bread for a heartier meal.
- Store Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just be sure to store the crispy tortilla strips separately to maintain their crunch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
