There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, flavorful bowl of tortilla soup, and Houston’s version takes it to a whole new level. Known for its rich, savory broth and perfectly balanced toppings, this soup has become a favorite for its bold Tex-Mex flavors and satisfying texture. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl—perfect for cozy nights or when we’re craving something hearty yet light.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect bowl of Houston’s Tortilla Soup packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors and a silky, rich broth, we’ll need a balance of fresh ingredients and carefully chosen spices. Here’s exactly what you’ll need:
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium jalapeño, seeded and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup tortilla strips, fried or baked (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
Optional Garnishes:
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco
- Pickled jalapeño slices
Tools And Equipment
To prepare Houston’s Tortilla Soup, it’s essential to have the right tools and equipment on hand. These kitchen essentials ensure smooth preparation and impeccable results. Here’s what we’ll need:
Cooking Tools
- Large stockpot: For simmering the flavorful broth and combining soup ingredients.
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface for chopping vegetables, herbs, and chicken.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife is crucial for precise dicing and slicing.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy in measuring liquids and spices.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring the soup without scratching pots.
- Blender or immersion blender: For optional pureeing if a smoother texture is desired.
Specialty Equipment
- Sheet pan: For baking or crisping tortilla strips evenly.
- Tongs: Helps flip tortilla strips and transfer chicken safely.
- Ladle: Makes serving the soup neat and easy.
Table for Material Overview
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large stockpot | Simmer ingredients for the rich broth |
| Cutting board | Chop vegetables, herbs, and meat safely |
| Chef’s knife | Precision slicing and dicing |
| Measuring cups and spoons | Measure ingredients accurately |
| Immersion blender | Achieve smooth broth texture (optional) |
| Sheet pan | Crisp tortilla strips evenly |
| Tongs | Handle hot tortilla strips or chicken |
| Ladle | Serve precise portions without mess |
With these Tools And Equipment, we’ll ensure our preparation of Houston’s Tortilla Soup is both efficient and enjoyable. Having the right kitchen gear not only saves time but also enhances the overall cooking experience.
Prep
Getting everything ready for Houston’s Tortilla Soup involves a few key steps to ensure a seamless cooking process. Let’s tackle the prep work, step-by-step, for the vegetables, tortilla strips, and the rich broth.
Preparing The Vegetables
To build the base for this flavor-packed soup, we start with essential vegetables:
- Chop the aromatics:
- Dice 1 medium onion into small, even pieces.
- Mince 3 cloves of garlic for an intense aromatic boost.
- Finely chop 1 medium jalapeño, removing seeds for mild heat or keeping them for extra spice.
- Prepare additional toppings:
- Slice 1 ripe avocado into cubes for creamy, fresh texture.
- Roughly chop fresh cilantro leaves to garnish.
- Organize everything:
- Arrange your prepped vegetables in bowls or on a tray for easy access during cooking.
Preparing The Tortilla Strips
No tortilla soup is complete without crisp tortilla strips. Follow these steps for golden, crunchy perfection:
- Cut the tortillas:
- Stack 4-6 corn tortillas. Use a sharp knife to cut them into thin strips, about ¼ inch wide.
- Crisp them up:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the strips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Lightly brush or spray the strips with olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt for flavor.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Set aside:
- Once cooled, transfer the tortilla strips to a clean bowl. Keep them dry and crispy until soup topping.
Preparing The Broth
The soul of Houston’s Tortilla Soup lies in its rich, robust broth. Here’s how:
- Sauté the base:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeño. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Build the flavor:
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of cumin, ½ teaspoon of chili powder, and ½ teaspoon of paprika. Cook another 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
- Simmer the broth:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|—————————-|————————————–|
| Chicken broth | 6 cups |
| Diced tomatoes (canned) | 1 (14-ounce) can, undrained |
| Shredded, cooked chicken | 2 cups |
- Pour in chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Add 2 cups of shredded, cooked chicken. Lower heat to a simmer and let the flavors meld for 15-20 minutes.
- (Optional) Blend for texture:
- Use an immersion blender to lightly puree the broth for a smoother base, leaving some texture intact.
By completing these prep steps, we are perfectly set up to assemble and serve a bowl of homemade Houston’s Tortilla Soup that’s bursting with bold, Tex-Mex flavors.
Directions
Let’s dive into making Houston’s Tortilla Soup by following these step-by-step instructions. Each step is crafted to ensure bold Tex-Mex flavors and the perfect comforting texture.
Cooking The Soup Base
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat.
- Add 1 cup diced onion, 3 cloves minced garlic, and 1 diced jalapeño. Stir and sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, allowing the spices to toast lightly for about 1 minute.
- Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir to combine, scraping the bottom of the pot for maximum flavor.
Adding Vegetables And Chicken
- Once the broth is mixed, reduce the heat to low-medium.
- Add 1 ½ cups shredded cooked chicken to the pot. (Rotisserie chicken works well for convenience.)
- Stir in ½ cup sweet corn kernels (optional) for additional sweetness and texture.
- Let the ingredients meld together for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Simmering To Perfection
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook on low for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to deepen.
- If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to lightly puree the base, leaving some texture. You can also ladle out a portion and blend it in a standard blender before returning it to the pot. (This step is optional!)
Frying The Tortilla Strips
- Preheat the oven to 375°F or warm a skillet over medium heat for frying.
- Slice 4 corn tortillas into thin strips (about ¼ inch wide).
- If baking, spread the strips on a sheet pan. Lightly brush them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- If frying, heat 1 cup of vegetable oil in a skillet until shimmering. Fry the strips in batches for 2-3 minutes until crispy and lightly browned. Drain them on paper towels.
Here’s a quick look at the temps and times for tortilla strips:
| Method | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Baking | 375°F | 10-12 min |
| Frying | Medium heat | 2-3 min |
Assemble
To bring this comforting Houston’s Tortilla Soup together, we focus on layering flavors and textures for the ultimate Tex-Mex experience. Once the broth is ready and the tortilla strips are crisp, it’s time to serve this hearty dish with vibrant toppings.
Serving The Soup
- Use a ladle to pour the hot, simmering soup into deep bowls. Fill each bowl approximately two-thirds full to leave room for toppings.
- For a balanced serving, ensure each bowl includes a generous portion of broth, vegetables, and shredded chicken. This combination highlights the richness of the Houston’s Tortilla Soup base.
- Serve immediately to maintain the warmth and texture of the soup. Remember, the presentation will enhance the dish’s appeal, making it as enjoyable to look at as it is to eat.
Tip: Warm the bowls before serving to prevent the soup from cooling quickly.
Adding Toppings And Garnishes
This step transforms the soup from simple to extraordinary. Toppings elevate both the flavor and presentation, offering a mix of crunch, creaminess, and freshness:
- Begin with a handful of crispy tortilla strips, sprinkling them over the surface of the soup for crunch.
- Add a modest sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese, letting it melt slightly over the hot soup.
- Scoop out diced avocado chunks and place them gently on top for creamy freshness.
- Finish with a sprinkling of chopped fresh cilantro for a fragrant pop of color.
Optional Garnishes: Boost the soup to your liking:
- A squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness.
- A small dollop of sour cream swirled into the soup for extra creaminess.
- Crumble some queso fresco for a mild, tangy kick.
Here’s a quick breakdown of suggested toppings and optional garnishes:
| Topping or Garnish | Purpose/Effect |
|---|---|
| Crispy Tortilla Strips | Adds crunch and texture |
| Shredded Cheese | Melts for a savory, gooey finish |
| Avocado | Provides creaminess and richness |
| Fresh Cilantro | Brightens flavor and adds fragrance |
| Lime Juice (Optional) | Enhances brightness |
| Sour Cream (Optional) | Adds velvety creaminess |
| Queso Fresco (Optional) | Tangy, mild cheese for balance |
Final Note: Remember, these toppings are not just decorative—they’re essential in creating the iconic layered flavors of Houston’s Tortilla Soup! Let everyone customize their bowls to meet their preferences.
Make-Ahead Instructions
When it comes to Houston’s Tortilla Soup, preparing elements ahead of time can save us valuable moments during busy schedules and ensure a smooth cooking process. Here’s how we can strategically prepare:
1. Prepare the Broth Base
- We can sauté the onions, garlic, and jalapeño in olive oil and add spices in advance.
- After cooking, add chicken broth and diced tomatoes, then simmer the mixture for about 15-20 minutes.
- Let the broth cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container.
- Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
2. Shred the Chicken
- Fully cook the chicken breasts ahead of time (either boil, bake, or use a rotisserie chicken).
- Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces and store it in a separate container.
- Refrigerate the chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months.
3. Prep the Toppings
- Tortilla Strips: Cut corn tortillas into thin strips and bake or fry them as outlined in the recipe. Once crispy, let them cool and store in an airtight container at room temperature. These will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Vegetables & Herbs: Dice avocado, chop fresh cilantro, and slice limes the day you’re serving. To prevent browning, we recommend prepping avocado just before serving.
- Cheese & Optional Garnishes: Pre-shred cheeses like Monterey Jack or cheddar. Store them in resealable bags in the refrigerator.
4. Assembly Timing
If needed, we can keep all the soup components separate until just before serving. Here’s a quick snapshot of storage timelines:
| Soup Component | Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Broth Base | Refrigerator / Freezer | 3 Days / 3 Months |
| Shredded Chicken | Refrigerator / Freezer | 4 Days / 2 Months |
| Tortilla Strips | Airtight Container (Room Temp) | 3 Days |
| Cheese, Cilantro, Lime | Refrigerator | 4 Days |
| Avocado (Pre-diced) | Store fresh, consume immediately | Prefer same day |
By preparing these elements on different days, Houston’s Tortilla Soup becomes not only quick to serve but also maintains its rich, bold flavors and iconic textures. Remember, proper storage in airtight containers is the key to preserving freshness.
With everything prepped, all we need to do is reheat the broth, add the shredded chicken, ladle into bowls, and top with our crispy tortilla strips, fresh herbs, and optional garnishes.
Conclusion
Houston’s Tortilla Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures that bring warmth to any table. With its rich, spiced broth, tender chicken, and vibrant toppings, this dish is as satisfying as it is versatile.
Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, the combination of fresh ingredients and thoughtful preparation ensures every bowl is a crowd-pleaser. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy the perfect balance of hearty and light that makes this recipe truly special.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Houston’s Tortilla Soup unique?
Houston’s Tortilla Soup stands out for its rich broth infused with bold Tex-Mex flavors, balanced toppings like crispy tortilla strips and fresh avocado, and a hearty yet light texture. It’s designed to be both comforting and customizable.
What are the essential ingredients for Houston’s Tortilla Soup?
Key ingredients include olive oil, onion, garlic, jalapeño, chicken broth, shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, and spices. Toppings like tortilla strips, cheese, avocado, cilantro, and lime are crucial for flavor and presentation. Optional garnishes include sour cream and queso fresco.
What tools do I need to make Houston’s Tortilla Soup?
You’ll need a large stockpot, a cutting board, a chef’s knife, measuring cups, a blender or immersion blender (optional), a wooden spoon, and a ladle. For tortilla strips, a sheet pan and tongs are helpful.
How do I prepare crispy tortilla strips?
Cut tortillas into strips and either bake them at 375°F for 8–10 minutes until golden or fry them in hot oil until crispy. Both methods add crunch to the soup.
Can I make Houston’s Tortilla Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the broth base, shred the chicken, and prep toppings in advance. Store components separately in airtight containers and reheat the soup base before assembling and serving.
Can I customize the toppings?
Absolutely! While essential toppings include crispy tortilla strips, cheese, and avocado, you can add garnishes like sour cream, queso fresco, lime juice, or fresh jalapeños to suit your taste.
How do I store leftover tortilla soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep toppings, like tortilla strips, separate to maintain their texture.
How can I make the broth smoother?
For a smoother broth, use a blender or an immersion blender to puree the soup before adding toppings or chicken. This step is optional but adds a creamy texture.
Is Houston’s Tortilla Soup spicy?
The spice level is manageable and comes from jalapeños and spices. You can adjust it by adding more peppers or omitting them entirely for a milder version.
What’s the best way to serve Houston’s Tortilla Soup?
Ladle hot soup into deep bowls and layer with toppings for flavor and texture. Essential toppings include crispy tortilla strips, cheese, avocado, and cilantro, with optional garnishes like lime juice or queso fresco.