Tortilla Soup
Tortilla soup is seriously one of my absolute favorites! The flavors are so fresh and delicious, with just the right amount of earthiness and spice. And let's not forget about those crispy tortilla strips on top - they add the perfect crunch! It's a great option for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner. Plus, it's even better as leftovers the next day. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
INGREDIENTS
3 mild dried ancho peppers
3 Kashmiri chili peppers
1 can (15oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra
1 large onion, diced
2 Anaheim peppers, diced
¼ tsp fine salt, more to taste
7 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chilli powder
3 cups cooked black beans, (2 15oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed)
4 cups (32oz) vegetable broth
5 corn tortillas, cut ¼-inch-wide strips
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, divided
2 tbsp lime juice, to taste
freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish: diced ripe avocado, crumbled queso fresco, sour cream
DIRECTIONS
Roast the dry ancho chillies and kashmiri chillies on a skillet, turning them often so they don’t burn. When fragrant, set aside to cool till you can handle them.
Roughly chop them, keeping as little or as much seeds to taste. Blend them with the canned tomatoes and juices and set aside.
In a dutch oven, heat the olive oil. Add in the chopped peppers, onions, and salt. Cook until the onion changes color slightly.
Add in the garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Cook till the garlic is fragrant- 1 minute.
Add in the blended tomatoes, and cook for a few minutes. Add in the beans and broth to the pot.
Simmer this mixture over medium-high heat for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat oil for frying. Rim a bowl with napkins, and set aside. Fry the tortilla strips till lightly golden. In the end, toss the strips with flaky salt.
After simmering for 30 minutes, stir in the lime juice and cilantro into the soup, reserving ¼ for garnishing. Taste for salt and lime juice.
Serve the soup, and garnish with tortilla strips, cilantro, and other optional garnishes of choice. Enjoy!
