Incorporate these ingredients into your recipe to create Aunt Kathy's delicious tortilla soup. Use keywords like "tortilla chips," "homemade chicken broth," and "fresh vegetables" for better SEO visibility.
Steps
### Aunt Kathy's Tortilla Soup Recipe
#### Introduction
Aunt Kathy's famous tortilla soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine with a delightful twist. Perfect for cold days or casual dinners, this recipe is simple yet packed with flavor. Follow these detailed steps to create your own delicious batch!
#### Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes with their juice
- 8 corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream, for serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
#### Instructions
##### Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
1. **Heat Olive Oil**: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. **Add Onions and Garlic**: Add finely chopped onion to the pot. Cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. **Include Spices**: Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Cook for another minute or two until fragrant.
##### Step 2: Combine Broth and Tomatoes
1. **Add Chicken Broth**: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
2. **Simmer**: Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
##### Step 3: Cook Tortilla Strips
1. **Add Tortilla Strips**: Carefully add the cut tortilla strips into the soup. Stir well to ensure they cook evenly.
2. **Simmer Further**: Let the tortillas cook in the broth for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
##### Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish
1. **Stir in Cheese**: Remove from heat, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until it melts partially into the soup.
2. **Serve Hot**: Ladle the hot tortilla soup into bowls and top with a dollop of sour cream and chopped cilantro.
#### Tips for Perfect Results
- Ensure your tortillas are dry before cutting to prevent soggy strips.
- Adjust spice levels according to taste, as Aunt Kathy’s recipe is known for being slightly spicy.
- For an extra touch, add cooked shredded chicken or diced ham to the soup base.
#### Conclusion
Aunt Kathy's Tortilla Soup is a labor of love and a delicious family tradition. Whether you're hosting guests or preparing it on your own, this hearty dish will warm both body and soul. Enjoy!