Chicken Tortilla Soup

Chicken Tortilla Soup

  • Prep time: 15
  • Cook time: 45
  • Yield: 8
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Ingredients
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 carrot, peeled and diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne
  • 4 cups stock
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 5 corn tortillas, cut into 1/2 inch strips
Nutrition Facts
Serves 8

Description

Chicken tortilla soup holds cultural importance in Mexican and Mexican-American cuisines, and it has become a beloved dish celebrated for its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and cultural significance. Several factors contribute to the cultural importance of chicken tortilla soup:

  1. Traditional Mexican Cuisine:

    • Chicken tortilla soup is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of Mexico. It reflects the use of local ingredients, traditional cooking techniques, and a combination of flavors that are characteristic of Mexican cuisine.

  2. Culinary Heritage:

    • The dish is part of the broader culinary heritage of Mexico, where soups play a significant role in daily meals. Mexican cuisine is known for its diverse and vibrant flavors, and chicken tortilla soup is a prime example of this diversity.

  3. Regional Variations:

    • Different regions in Mexico may have their own variations of chicken tortilla soup, incorporating local ingredients and culinary traditions. This diversity showcases the rich tapestry of Mexican regional cuisines.

  4. Use of Indigenous Ingredients:

    • Chicken tortilla soup often features indigenous ingredients like corn, tomatoes, chilies, and tortillas. The use of these ingredients connects the dish to Mexico’s agricultural history and the cultivation of staple crops.

  5. Symbol of Comfort and Warmth:

    • Soups, in general, are considered comforting, and chicken tortilla soup is no exception. It is often enjoyed as a warming and nourishing meal, making it a symbol of comfort, particularly during colder weather.

  6. Community and Family Gatherings:

    • The preparation and sharing of chicken tortilla soup can be a communal activity, bringing families and communities together. Sharing meals is an essential aspect of Mexican culture, and chicken tortilla soup is often served at family gatherings and celebrations.

  7. Versatility and Adaptability:

    • Chicken tortilla soup’s versatility allows for various adaptations and personalizations. Different regions and families may have their own twists on the recipe, contributing to the ongoing evolution of the dish.

  8. Popular in Mexican-American Cuisine:

    • Chicken tortilla soup has become a staple in Mexican-American cuisine, reflecting the culinary traditions of Mexican immigrants and their descendants in the United States. It has become a symbol of cultural identity and a connection to Mexican roots.

  9. Representation in Popular Culture:

    • The popularity of chicken tortilla soup has extended beyond traditional settings. It is featured in cookbooks, food blogs, and culinary shows, contributing to its recognition and appreciation on a broader scale.

  10. Celebration of Corn:

    • Corn, often in the form of tortillas or tortilla strips, is a key ingredient in chicken tortilla soup. Corn holds cultural significance in Mexican history and is a staple crop with deep cultural roots.

In summary, chicken tortilla soup is culturally important as a representation of Mexican culinary traditions, a symbol of comfort, and a dish that brings people together through shared meals and celebrations. Its popularity and adaptability make it a cherished part of Mexican and Mexican-American cuisines.

Instructions

  • 1. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, celery, bell pepper and cook 7 minutes until vegetables are softened.
  • 2. Add garlic and dried spices and cook, stirring another minute.
  • 3. Add crushed tomatoes and stock and bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
  • 4. Heat remaining vegetable oil in a nonstick pan and fry the tortilla strips.
  • 5. Season soup to taste with salt and pepper. Serve garnished with fried tortilla strips.