Smoky Chipotle Tortilla Soup is a vibrant dish that blends the heat of chipotle with the comforting warmth of a classic tortilla soup. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a spice-infused pick-me-up, this soup is as satisfying as it is easy to make.
Olive oil forms the base for sautéing the aromatics, adding richness and flavor. Onion and garlic are the foundational flavors, offering savory depth. Ground cumin and smoked paprika bring warmth and a subtle earthiness, while chipotle peppers in adobo deliver a smoky, spicy kick. Chicken broth serves as the soup's savory backbone, marrying all the flavors together. Diced tomatoes add acidity and freshness. Black beans and corn provide heartiness and sweetness, respectively. Finally, a squeeze of lime juice brightens the dish, while avocado, cilantro, tortilla strips, sour cream, and cheddar cheese make perfect garnishes.
This soup pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some warm, crusty bread for dipping. A cold Mexican beer or a tangy margarita would complement the smoky flavors perfectly.
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, throw in the onion and garlic. Stir them around until the onion turns translucent, about five minutes should do. Now, sprinkle in the ground cumin and smoked paprika, then add the chipotle peppers. Stir everything for about a minute to let those spices bloom.
Next, pour in the chicken broth. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Give it all a good stir, then bring it to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to let it simmer for 20 minutes. This is when the magic happens, as all the flavors meld together beautifully.
After simmering, squeeze in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the soup hot, topped with avocado, cilantro, tortilla strips, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
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