Mexican Soup
If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that embodies the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine, look no further than Mexican soup. This vibrant, hearty soup is packed with protein, fresh vegetables, and a delightful blend of spices. It’s an ideal choice for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. With its colorful presentation and delicious taste, Mexican soup will surely impress anyone who tries it. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process to bring this dish to life!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Tortilla strips, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 200 calories, 8g protein, 30g carbohydrates, 5g fat, and 6g fiber. This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 3 minutes.
- Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the pot.
- Pour in vegetable broth and stir well to combine.
- Season the soup with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and tortilla strips.
- Enjoy your delicious Mexican soup with family and friends!
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute black beans with pinto beans or chickpeas for a different flavor and texture. If you’re not a fan of corn, consider adding diced zucchini or carrots. These alternatives will keep the soup hearty and flavorful.
Serving and Pairings
Mexican soup pairs wonderfully with fresh avocado slices, lime wedges, or crusty bread. Additionally, it goes well with a side of tortilla chips or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover Mexican soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip the sautéing step; it enhances the flavors.
- Be careful not to over-season with spices; start small and adjust.
- Ensure your beans are properly rinsed to avoid excess sodium.
- Don’t let it boil too long after adding the broth to preserve freshness.
- Always taste before serving to check seasoning levels.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t forget the garnishes; they add a nice finish.
Helpful Tips
- Make it spicy by adding jalapeños or hot sauce.
- For creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.
- Garnish with lime for a fresh zing.
- Experiment with different vegetables based on what you have.
- Use homemade broth for richer flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, this Mexican soup is naturally vegan as it primarily consists of vegetables and beans. Just ensure the broth is vegetable-based.
How can I thicken the soup?
You can thicken the soup by adding a cornstarch slurry or blending a portion of the soup and returning it to the pot.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and check your canned ingredients, this soup can be gluten-free.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Absolutely! Shredded chicken or beef can be added for extra protein and flavor.
How long does it take to cook from start to finish?
The total time for this recipe is about 45 minutes, including preparation and cooking.
Conclusion
Mexican soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its vibrant ingredients and robust flavors, it’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Easy to prepare and adaptable to various tastes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every spoonful!
Mexican Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz corn, drained
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, with juices
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Tortilla strips for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 3 minutes.
- Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the pot.
- Pour in vegetable broth and stir well to combine.
- Season the soup with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and tortilla strips.
- Enjoy your delicious Mexican soup!
