Appetizer & Dessert

Tortilla Soup Recipe – Easy Meals To Cook

Name: Tortilla Soup Recipe – Easy Meals To Cook
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon tomato paste: This little ingredient packs a punch of umami and richness.; 2 dried Guajillo or Ancho chiles: Don’t forget to remove the stems and seeds to make the sauce smooth.; 11/2 teaspoons fine sea salt: Adjust according to your taste.; 3 cups cooked black beans: Rinse and drain these little protein powerhouses.; 4 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth: You can always add more if needed to adjust the consistency.; 3 garlic cloves: Freshly grated; there's no substitution for fresh garlic.; 2 tablespoons avocado oil: Just a drizzle for that extra richness.; 1 large white onion: Chop it up! Reserve ⅓ cup for garnishing.; 1 teaspoon ground cumin: This adds depth to our flavor profile.; 2 cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes: You want the roasted variety for added smokiness.; 11/2 cups 11/2 corn kernels: Fresh or frozen, about 2 ears if you're using fresh.; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: A sprinkle here goes a long way in enhancing the flavor.; 8 corn tortillas: Soft and pliable, perfect for dipping.; 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano: Just a hint for that herbaceous note.; Diced avocado: Smooth and creamy.; Thinly sliced radishes: For a crunchy and colorful touch.; Fresh cilantro leaves: A must for that punch of freshness.; Crumbled Cotija cheese: Because cheese makes everything better.; Lime wedges: A little acidity to balance the richness.

Kelly Blackford July 8, 2025

Servings: 6 Total Time: 1 hr Difficulty: Intermediate

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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to a warm bowl of tortilla soup. It’s a delightful mix of flavors that transports you straight to a sunny fiesta, even if you’re just sitting on your couch in the middle of a rainstorm.

Seriously, what pairs better with a cozy evening than a hearty bowl of soup? Maybe some crunchy tortilla chips or a fresh salad—just the right complement for this whimsical dish.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

I cannot stress enough how versatile and satisfying tortilla soup is. The combination of black beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and spices creates a symphony of flavors. Plus, you get to customize it to your heart’s content! Whether you like a bit of heat or prefer to keep it mild, it’s all up to you.

What really gets me excited about this recipe, though, is the fresh ingredients. As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’ve experimented with numerous ingredients over the years. I have to say, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and wholesome goodness. Why?

Because it brings together nourishing ingredients while being utterly delicious. You can throw this together on a busy weeknight or reinforce your meal prep game for the week—it’s that easy.

Now, let’s dive into the fun part: the ingredients.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this incredible tortilla soup:

1 tablespoon tomato paste: This little ingredient packs a punch of umami and richness.
2 dried Guajillo or Ancho chiles: Don’t forget to remove the stems and seeds to make the sauce smooth.
1½ teaspoons fine sea salt: Adjust according to your taste.
3 cups cooked black beans: Rinse and drain these little protein powerhouses.
4 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth: You can always add more if needed to adjust the consistency.
3 garlic cloves: Freshly grated; there’s no substitution for fresh garlic.
2 tablespoons avocado oil: Just a drizzle for that extra richness.
1 large white onion: Chop it up! Reserve ⅓ cup for garnishing.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: This adds depth to our flavor profile.
2 (14-ounce) cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes: You want the roasted variety for added smokiness.
1½ cups corn kernels: Fresh or frozen, about 2 ears if you’re using fresh.
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: A sprinkle here goes a long way in enhancing the flavor.
8 corn tortillas: Soft and pliable, perfect for dipping.
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano: Just a hint for that herbaceous note.

For Serving:

Diced avocado: Smooth and creamy.
Thinly sliced radishes: For a crunchy and colorful touch.
Fresh cilantro leaves: A must for that punch of freshness.
Crumbled Cotija cheese: Because cheese makes everything better.
Lime wedges: A little acidity to balance the richness.

Making Your Tortilla Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before you dive in, gather all the ingredients. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Chop your onion, grate the garlic, and prepare your black beans if you’re not using canned ones.

Step 2: Toast the Chiles

In a dry skillet over moderate heat, toss in the Guajillo or Ancho chiles for a few moments until they’re aromatic. This step is crucial; toasting the chiles enhances their flavor immensely. After a few minutes, remove them from the heat and let them cool.

Step 3: Blend the Base

Using a blender, combine the toasted chiles, tomato paste, garlic, cumin, oregano, and a bit of salt with about a cup of water or broth. Blend until you have a smooth mixture. The texture should be similar to a sauce. This is where the magic begins—trust me.

Step 4: Cook the Onion

In a large pot, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until it turns translucent, which usually takes 3-4 minutes. The aroma fills your kitchen, and you can almost taste the flavors coming together.

Step 5: Add the Flavorful Base

Once the onions are ready, pour in the blended mixture you prepared earlier. Stir it for about a minute until everything is well combined. Then, add the fire-roasted tomatoes and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes. This step builds an incredible layer of flavor.

Step 6: Add Broth and Beans

Now it’s time to add the black beans and your choice of water or vegetable broth to the pot. Stir it all together. Let it simmer on low heat for another 15-20 minutes. If you’d like a thicker consistency, just simmer for longer. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Incorporate the Corn

Toss in the corn kernels and give everything a good stir. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes. The corn adds a natural sweetness to the dish.

Step 8: Final Touches

Taste your soup at this stage. Add more salt if needed. Once everything is well-combined, remove it from the heat.

Step 9: Prepare the Tortillas

While your soup rests, cut the corn tortillas into strips. You can either bake them until crispy or fry them briefly in oil. I prefer baking for a healthier twist, but fry them if you want that authentic texture.

Step 10: Serve

In bowls, ladle the soup and top with diced avocado, radishes, fresh cilantro, and crumbled Cotija cheese. Squeeze a lime wedge on top for that zing!

Recipe Notes

Tomato Paste: It’s a simple way to deepen flavors in your sauces and soups. Don’t skip this!
Dried Chiles: These add a unique depth. Give them a toast; it’s a game changer.
Black Beans: Rich in protein and fiber. Canned ones work just fine but rinse them to remove excess sodium.
Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: They provide that smoky flavor that fresh tomatoes can’t deliver.
Corn: Adds sweetness and a pop of color. Frozen works in a pinch, but fresh has the best taste.
Tortillas: Baking them makes them crispy while cutting down the oil. Fry them if you’re feeling indulgent.

Recipe Variations

For a Spicier Soup: Add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper during cooking.
For a Veggie Boost: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrients.
For Meat Lovers: Feel free to add shredded chicken or beef for a heartier meal.
For a Creamier Texture: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
For Gluten-Free: Substitute corn tortillas with your choice of gluten-free crackers or chips.
For a Vegan Version: Simply skip the Cotija cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

There you have it—an enchanting bowl of tortilla soup that sings with flavor and heartiness. This dish not only provides comfort but is also a delightful way to enjoy fresh ingredients and a wealth of nutrients. It’s a recipe you’ll want to revisit whenever you need a little warmth in your life.

So, gather your loved ones, sip on your soup, and dig into the layers of flavors you’ve created. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Happy cooking, and may your tortilla soup always be nourishing and delicious!

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Tortilla Soup Recipe – Easy Meals To Cook

Author: Kelly Blackford Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer & Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 40 mins Total Time 1 hr

Servings: 6 Calories: 663 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

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