Sopa de lima – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Mexico Region / Locale: Yucatán Servings: Serves 4
Mexico Region / Locale: Yucatán Servings: Serves 4Sopa de Lima is a zesty and aromatic Mexican chicken soup hailing from the Yucatán Peninsula. This traditional dish is renowned for its soul-warming qualities, blending the tartness of lime with the earthy flavors of chicken broth and the vibrant freshness of local herbs and spices. Often served as a comforting starter or a main dish, Sopa de Lima encapsulates the vibrant culinary history of Mexico, making use of readily available regional ingredients to create a dish that is both heartening and intriguing.
Ingredients
- chicken breast – 2 pcs / 450 g
- chicken stock – 6 cups / 1.4 liters
- limes, juiced – 3 pcs / 120 ml
- lime, sliced thinly – 1 pc
- tortilla strips – 2 cups / 100 g
- onion, chopped – 1 medium / 150 g
- garlic cloves, minced – 2 pcs
- ripe tomato, diced – 1 large / 200 g
- fresh cilantro, chopped – 1/4 cup / 15 g
- olive oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- salt – to taste
- black pepper – to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add the diced tomato and cook until it starts to break down.
- Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Add the chicken breasts and poach for about 20 minutes until cooked through.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the pot, shred them, and return to the soup.
- Stir in the lime juice and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with tortilla strips, lime slices, and chopped cilantro.
Substitutions
- chicken breast -> turkey breast
- lime -> lemon
- cilantro -> parsley
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a pinch of chili powder for a spicy kick.
- Use homemade chicken stock for deeper flavor.
- Garnish with avocado slices for added creaminess.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
