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Vegetarian Tortilla Soup

Vegetarian Tortilla Soup

Vegetarian Tortilla Soup is a comforting, vibrant, and wholesome Mexican-inspired dish full of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors. It features fresh vegetables, black beans, and a hint of lime, topped with crunchy tortilla chips for a satisfying and nutrient-packed meal that’s quick and easy to prepare, vegan-friendly, and perfect for any season.

Ingredients

Scale

Soup Base

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth

Vegetables and Beans

  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or canned, drained)

Finishing Touches

  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • Vegetarian tortilla chips, for serving

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Sauté Aromatics Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This forms the flavorful base of your Vegetarian Tortilla Soup.
  2. Step 2: Add Spices and Tomatoes Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt. Stir for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices, unlocking their rich, smoky aroma. Next, add diced tomatoes with their juice to the pot, allowing them to simmer and blend with the spices.
  3. Step 3: Pour in Broth and Beans Add the vegetable broth and drained black beans to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes. This step allows flavors to meld perfectly.
  4. Step 4: Stir in Corn and Adjust Seasoning Add the sweet corn kernels and continue to simmer the soup for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and extra chili powder if desired.
  5. Step 5: Finish with Fresh Ingredients Remove the soup from heat and stir in freshly chopped cilantro and fresh lime juice. These add brightness and a fresh balance to the deep flavors.
  6. Step 6: Serve with Tortilla Chips Ladle the Vegetarian Tortilla Soup into bowls and top with crunchy tortilla chips for that classic, addictive texture contrast.

Notes

  • Use fresh lime juice at the end to keep its bright, tangy flavor vibrant and fresh.
  • Using homemade or high-quality vegetable broth enhances flavor depth.
  • Adjust chili powder carefully; you can always add more but can’t remove once added.
  • Add tortilla chips just before serving to keep them crunchy.
  • This soup reheats well—consider doubling the recipe for leftovers.

Nutrition

Keywords: Vegetarian, Tortilla Soup, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Mexican Soup, Healthy, Quick, Comfort Food