If you’re someone who delights in a hearty, flavorful soup, then Las Palapas Tortilla Soup is a dish you’ll want to try. Known for its bold and comforting combination of savory broth, crispy tortilla strips, and a dash of spice, this soup is a Mexican classic that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re craving a quick meal or something to impress guests, this recipe captures the heart of traditional tortilla soup with a few twists of its own. It’s a perfect dish for cooler months or any time you’re in need of a bowl of warmth and flavor.
Las Palapas Tortilla Soup Recipe
This Las Palapas Tortilla Soup recipe is an elevated take on the classic Mexican dish. It brings together a rich, homemade broth infused with tomatoes, chilies, and other aromatic ingredients, topped with crunchy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of cream for added indulgence. It’s an all-in-one meal that offers layers of flavor in every spoonful.
Ingredients Needed
To create this flavor-packed soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Stock or Broth: A rich base that brings all the flavors together. Homemade stock is ideal, but store-bought works just as well.
- Tomatoes: Fresh or canned, tomatoes add that essential depth of flavor and richness to the soup. They provide both tang and sweetness, balancing the other ingredients.
- Chili Peppers: Typically, a combination of ancho or pasilla chilies gives the soup a mild heat. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.
- Onion: A classic aromatic that forms the foundation of the soup. Yellow onions work best here for their sweetness and flavor.
- Garlic: Adds an aromatic intensity that pairs perfectly with the other savory ingredients.
- Cumin: Essential for that signature warm, earthy flavor that pairs so well with the chilies.
- Oregano: Mexican oregano is preferred for its more vibrant, citrusy flavor, but regular oregano can be used in a pinch.
- Corn Tortillas: The key to this soup! The tortillas are sliced, fried, and used both as a garnish and to thicken the broth.
- Chicken: You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook your own chicken breasts and shred them for a fresher taste.
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Toppings
- Shredded cheese (preferably a melty variety like Monterey Jack)
- Avocado slices
- Sour cream
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Cooking Instructions
Follow these detailed steps for a perfectly flavorful Las Palapas Tortilla Soup:
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Prep The Ingredients
- Slice the corn tortillas into strips. Fry them in a little oil until crispy and golden brown, then drain them on a paper towel.
- If you’re using fresh chicken, cook and shred it. If using rotisserie chicken, simply pull the meat off the bone and shred it.
- Dice the onion and garlic, and chop the tomatoes into small pieces or blend them if you want a smoother texture.
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Make The Soup Base
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until they soften and become fragrant.
- Toss in the chopped tomatoes, cumin, and oregano. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and form a thick, rich paste.
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Simmer The Broth
- Add the chicken stock (or broth) to the pot and bring everything to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more cumin as needed.
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Assemble The Soup
- Add the shredded chicken to the soup, allowing it to heat through for 5-10 minutes. If you want a thicker texture, you can blend part of the soup and then return it to the pot.
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Serve
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each serving with a handful of crispy tortilla strips, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, slices of avocado, a sprinkle of cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the ingredients is key to making an outstanding tortilla soup:
- Chicken Stock or Broth: The foundation of your soup’s flavor, the stock gives a savory richness. Homemade is always preferred for the depth it adds, but store-bought stocks can be quite good, especially if you go for low-sodium varieties.
- Tortillas: Traditional tortilla soup often uses fried corn tortillas to thicken the soup while also adding texture. If you’re after an authentic taste, avoid flour tortillas, as they won’t provide the same crunch and flavor.
- Chili Peppers: The choice of chiles really depends on the level of heat you want. Ancho chiles provide a mild, smoky depth, while pasilla adds a bit more earthiness. For more heat, you could also toss in a jalapeño or serrano pepper.
- Mexican Oregano: While regular oregano has a stronger, slightly bitter taste, Mexican oregano has citrusy notes that complement the flavors of the soup. If you can, seek it out for the best flavor profile.
Expert Tips
- For a richer flavor, try roasting the tomatoes and garlic before adding them to the soup base. This adds a smoky sweetness that really enhances the broth.
- Don’t skip the fried tortilla strips! They’re not only for garnish-they contribute to the soup’s unique texture and flavor, thickening the broth as they soak in.
- Adjust spice levels: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can reduce the number of chili peppers, or remove their seeds before cooking. Alternatively, add a dash of hot sauce for controlled heat.
- Make it a day ahead: Tortilla soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. If you’re meal prepping, this is a perfect make-ahead dish.
- Serve with a side of warm cornbread or a slice of crusty bread to complete the meal.
Recipe Variations
This classic tortilla soup can be adapted in a few fun ways to suit different tastes or dietary preferences:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth, adding beans or roasted vegetables (like zucchini, corn, and peppers) for substance. You can also add extra cheese and avocado for richness.
- Spicy Version: If you want an extra kick, blend in some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, or top the soup with jalapeño slices.
- Creamy Version: For a creamier texture, add a cup of heavy cream or a bit of crema Mexicana to the soup just before serving.
- Slow Cooker Version: Combine all the ingredients (except the tortilla strips) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the tortilla strips just before serving.
Final Words
Las Palapas Tortilla Soup is more than just a meal-it’s an experience. The combination of layers of flavor, from the rich broth to the crunchy tortilla strips and creamy toppings, makes every bite a journey. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or get creative with your own variations, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Used In Las Palapas Tortilla Soup?
The main ingredients include chicken broth, tomatoes, onions, garlic, chicken breast (or rotisserie chicken), crispy tortilla strips, avocado, cilantro, lime juice, and various seasonings such as cumin, chili powder, and salt.
How Do I Make The Crispy Tortilla Strips For Las Palapas Tortilla Soup?
To make the crispy tortilla strips, cut corn tortillas into thin strips and fry them in hot oil until golden and crisp. You can also bake them in the oven for a healthier version.
Can I Make Las Palapas Tortilla Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini or corn for more flavor.
Is Las Palapas Tortilla Soup Spicy?
The soup has a mild to medium level of spiciness due to the use of chili powder and sometimes jalapeños. You can adjust the spice level by adding or reducing the amount of chili powder or by removing the jalapeños.
How Do I Store Leftovers Of Las Palapas Tortilla Soup?
Store leftover tortilla soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, keep the crispy tortilla strips separate and add them just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Can I Freeze Las Palapas Tortilla Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup without the crispy tortilla strips. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add fresh tortilla strips.
What Toppings Can I Add To Las Palapas Tortilla Soup?
Popular toppings include sour cream, shredded cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack), chopped avocado, cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and extra crispy tortilla strips. Some also add jalapeños for an added kick.
Can I Make Las Palapas Tortilla Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make the soup in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients, including the chicken, broth, vegetables, and seasonings, and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Shred the chicken once it’s cooked and add the tortilla strips before serving.
What Type Of Chicken Should I Use In Las Palapas Tortilla Soup?
You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Rotisserie chicken is also a great option for convenience. For a richer flavor, chicken thighs are preferred, but breasts are leaner.
Can I Use Store-bought Tortilla Strips For Las Palapas Tortilla Soup?
Yes, store-bought tortilla strips can be used as a convenient alternative to homemade ones. Just be sure to choose unsalted or lightly salted strips to avoid over-seasoning the soup.