Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This vibrant tortilla soup recipe, perfectly blended with the power of your Vitamix, is the answer to your culinary desires. Forget lengthy prep times and complicated techniques; this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is guaranteed to impress your family and friends. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals that are both delicious and satisfying. This recipe elevates homemade cooking to a whole new level of ease and flavor. Get ready to experience the best recipes, perfectly blended to perfection!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked corn kernels
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- Tortilla chips, for serving
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Blend the soup base: Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer. Carefully transfer the mixture to your Vitamix container. Secure the lid and blend on high speed until completely smooth. This step creates a luxuriously creamy texture!
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Combine and simmer: Pour the blended soup back into the pot. Add the corn and black beans. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with diced avocado, cilantro, tortilla chips, and a squeeze of lime juice. Feel free to add extra toppings like shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream to personalize your bowl.
Tips for Tortilla Soup Success:
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Roasting the vegetables: For a deeper, richer flavor, roast the onion and bell pepper before sautéing. Simply toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
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Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the level of heat. For a milder soup, omit it altogether or use a smaller amount. For extra smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika.
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Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator for a quick and easy meal throughout the week.
Variations:
- Chicken Tortilla Soup: Add 1-2 cups of cooked shredded chicken to the soup during the simmering stage.
- Vegetarian Tortilla Soup: Use vegetable broth and skip the chicken. You can add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Spicy Tortilla Soup: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 300-350 (depending on toppings)
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick dinner idea or a healthy lunch. Enjoy this delicious and versatile soup! It’s one of the best recipes for showcasing the power and convenience of your Vitamix.