Tortilla soup is a beloved classic in Mexican cuisine. Its bold, savory flavors make it a comforting dish that’s perfect for nearly any occasion. Jim’s Restaurant Tortilla Soup stands out as a perfect representation of this dish, with its rich, zesty broth, crispy tortilla strips, and an array of toppings that come together for a wonderfully satisfying experience. Whether you’re craving something hearty to warm up on a chilly day or looking to impress your guests with a flavorful homemade dish, this tortilla soup is a sure winner.
This recipe is deeply rooted in the heart of traditional Mexican cooking but with a twist of modern culinary techniques to elevate the flavors. We’re going to break down every step, including the ingredients, preparation methods, and expert tips, so you can make this restaurant-quality soup at home.
Jim’s Restaurant Tortilla Soup Recipe
Jim’s Restaurant has become synonymous with tasty, home-cooked Mexican comfort food, and this tortilla soup is one of their signature dishes. The rich tomato-based broth, combined with roasted chicken, garlic, chilies, and fresh vegetables, creates a depth of flavor that is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
The key to Jim’s recipe is its balance of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors, as well as the texture contrast from crispy tortilla strips. It’s a dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste, but following Jim’s original recipe ensures you hit all the right notes.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make Jim’s Restaurant Tortilla Soup. The ingredients are simple, but their combination creates a soup full of rich, complex flavors:
- Chicken (rotisserie or cooked chicken breast): A tender, shredded protein that adds both substance and flavor to the soup.
- Corn tortillas: These are fried to crispy perfection and then crushed into the soup, adding texture and a distinct corn flavor.
- Tomatoes: Fresh Roma or plum tomatoes are the best options for their firm texture and sweet-tart flavor.
- Onions: Yellow or white onions work best in this recipe for their balanced sweetness and savory flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic, minced or crushed, adds depth and a slightly spicy aroma to the broth.
- Chicken broth: The base for the soup, adding a savory, umami-rich foundation.
- Chili peppers: Dried ancho or guajillo chilies are traditional, but feel free to use chipotle for a smokier kick.
- Lime: Fresh lime juice adds a tart, refreshing finish to the soup.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro for garnish brings a burst of herbaceous freshness.
- Avocado: Adds a creamy contrast and richness when served as a topping.
- Cheese (cotija or queso fresco): For a salty, crumbly topping that adds extra flavor and texture.
- Sour cream: A dollop on top brings tangy creaminess to balance the heat.
- Fried tortilla strips: For garnish, these crunchy bits are the soul of tortilla soup, adding both flavor and texture.
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s walk through the step-by-step process to bring this delicious tortilla soup to life. The cooking instructions are straightforward, so even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you can follow along with ease.
-
Prep The Ingredients
- Shred the chicken (if you’re not using pre-cooked chicken, you can cook some chicken breasts ahead of time and shred them).
- Slice the corn tortillas into thin strips, about 1-inch wide.
- Dice the onions and garlic finely.
- Core and chop the tomatoes into small pieces.
-
Fry The Tortilla Strips
- Heat some vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the tortilla strips until they’re golden and crispy. Remove and drain them on a paper towel to remove excess oil. Set aside.
-
Prepare The Soup Base
- In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to break down and release their juices.
-
Add The Chicken Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer. If you’re using dried chilies, you can rehydrate them in hot water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the soup for a smoky flavor. Blend them and strain the mixture before adding it to the pot.
-
Simmer
- Let the soup simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season the broth with salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste.
-
Add The Chicken
- Stir in the shredded chicken and let it heat through in the soup.
-
Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls, then top with a generous amount of fried tortilla strips, a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of crumbled cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Ingredient Insights
Here’s why these ingredients work so well together:
- Chicken: It’s not just for protein; chicken brings a savory richness that pairs beautifully with the tangy broth.
- Corn Tortillas: Using corn tortillas adds authenticity, as corn is a staple in Mexican cuisine. Their texture provides that iconic “tortilla” experience in every bite.
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes are the backbone of the broth’s flavor. Their natural acidity balances the richness of the chicken broth and gives the soup that vibrant red color.
- Chili Peppers: The dried ancho or guajillo chilies bring a mild heat, and their smoky notes create a depth of flavor that makes this soup stand out.
- Lime: A squeeze of lime at the end is the perfect contrast to the richness, cutting through the heaviness of the soup with a refreshing zing.
- Cheese and Avocado: Both these ingredients elevate the texture and flavor by providing creamy richness and mild saltiness.
Expert Tips
To ensure your tortilla soup turns out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips:
- Frying Tortilla Strips: For extra crispiness, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the tortilla strips. If the oil is too cold, they will become greasy rather than crispy.
- Broth: You can enhance the flavor of your broth by roasting the tomatoes and garlic first before adding them to the pot. This will add a smoky, caramelized flavor to the soup.
- Make it Spicy: If you like spice, try adding a diced jalapeño or two to the soup for an extra kick. You can also experiment with different types of chilies for varying heat levels.
- Garnish: Don’t skip the garnishes! A well-dressed bowl of tortilla soup makes the dish more visually appealing and adds bursts of flavor with each bite.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to experiment with these variations of Jim’s Tortilla Soup to suit your personal tastes or dietary preferences:
- Vegetarian Tortilla Soup: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add in more vegetables like zucchini, corn, or bell peppers for added texture.
- Spicy Tortilla Soup: For an extra spicy kick, incorporate fresh jalapeños, or add some hot sauce or cayenne pepper to taste.
- Creamy Tortilla Soup: Add a bit of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese to the soup for a creamier, velvety texture.
- Slow Cooker Version: You can slow cook the soup on low for 6-8 hours if you prefer a hands-off cooking method. Just add the chicken, broth, and seasonings and let it cook low and slow.
Final Words
Making Jim’s Restaurant Tortilla Soup is a culinary journey filled with bold flavors and comforting textures. From the crispy tortilla strips to the tangy lime and creamy avocado, every bite is a satisfying blend of flavors that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Jim’s Restaurant Tortilla Soup?
The key ingredients for Jim’s Restaurant Tortilla Soup include chicken broth, tomatoes, onions, garlic, corn tortillas, shredded chicken, cilantro, lime, and various seasonings like cumin, chili powder, and salt.
How Do I Make The Base For Jim’s Restaurant Tortilla Soup?
To make the base, start by sautéing onions and garlic in a bit of oil. Then, add the chicken broth, tomatoes, and seasonings. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 20 minutes to develop flavor.
Can I Use Store-bought Chicken Broth For This Tortilla Soup?
Yes, store-bought chicken broth can be used in place of homemade broth. However, if you have time, making your own chicken broth will enhance the soup’s depth of flavor.
How Do I Prepare The Tortillas For Jim’s Tortilla Soup?
To prepare the tortillas, cut them into strips and fry them in oil until crispy, or alternatively, bake them for a healthier option. They will add texture to the soup.
What Kind Of Chicken Is Used In Jim’s Restaurant Tortilla Soup?
Jim’s Tortilla Soup typically uses shredded rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken breast. The chicken should be tender and easily shredded to blend well with the soup.
Can I Make Jim’s Tortilla Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make the soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth and omitting the chicken. You can also add beans or extra vegetables like corn or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
How Spicy Is Jim’s Restaurant Tortilla Soup?
The level of spiciness in Jim’s Tortilla Soup is mild to medium, depending on the amount of chili powder and other spices added. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less chili powder, or even some jalapeños if you prefer a spicier version.
What Toppings Should I Use For Jim’s Tortilla Soup?
Popular toppings for this tortilla soup include shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, crispy tortilla strips, and a squeeze of lime juice.
How Long Does Jim’s Tortilla Soup Last In The Refrigerator?
Jim’s Tortilla Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to store any toppings separately to maintain their freshness.
Can I Freeze Jim’s Tortilla Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Jim’s Tortilla Soup for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to freeze the soup without the crispy tortilla strips or toppings. Add those fresh when reheating the soup.