Sopa de tortilla – 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 Servings: Serves 4-6
Mexico Servings: Serves 4-6Sopa de Tortilla, or Tortilla Soup, is a quintessential Mexican dish steeped in the tradition of using every ingredient to its fullest potential. Originating from central Mexico, this soup is known for its warm, comforting flavors and rich history. Traditionally crafted to use up stale tortillas, Sopa de Tortilla blends robust spices and fresh ingredients into a fragrant, layered broth, adorned with crispy tortilla strips for texture. It’s a meal that celebrates Mexico’s vibrant culinary tapestry.
Ingredients
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- White onion – 1 medium, diced
- Garlic cloves – 3 minced
- Tomatoes – 4 medium, chopped
- Chicken broth – 6 cups / 1.4 liters
- Dried pasilla chiles – 2, seeded and sliced
- Corn tortillas – 6, cut into strips
- Avocado – 1, diced
- Crema – 1/2 cup / 120 ml
- Queso fresco – 1/2 cup / 60 g, crumbled
- Lime – 1, cut into wedges
- Salt and pepper – To taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves – 1/4 cup, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
- Stir in garlic, tomatoes, and pasilla chiles. Cook until tomatoes break down, about 10 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and season with salt and pepper.
- While broth simmers, fry tortilla strips in olive oil until golden and crispy, then drain on paper towels.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with avocado, crema, queso fresco, cilantro, lime wedges, and tortilla strips.
Substitutions
- Olive oil -> Vegetable oil
- Chicken broth -> Vegetable broth
- Pasilla chiles -> Ancho chiles
- Crema -> Sour cream
- Queso fresco -> Feta cheese
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add grilled chicken pieces for a heartier version.
- Incorporate roasted corn kernels for added sweetness and texture.
- Use homemade chicken broth for enhanced flavor depth.
- Garnish with sliced radishes for an extra crunch.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
