Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Texas! This Beef Tortilla Soup is not just a recipe - it's a legendary dish from the iconic Menger Hotel in San Antonio, packed with rich flavors and a history as deep as its delicious broth. Imagine a warm, comforting soup that combines tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and crispy tortilla strips that will make your dinner guests beg for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 corn tortillas, cut into strips
- Avocado and cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by cubing the beef, chopping the onion, and mincing the garlic.
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef and brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes, to develop rich flavor and color.
- Remove the browned beef and set aside. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onions until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Return the browned beef to the pot and add beef broth, diced tomatoes, corn kernels, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 30-35 minutes, allowing the beef to become tender and flavors to meld.
- While the soup is simmering, prepare tortilla strips by cutting corn tortillas into thin strips.
- Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet and fry tortilla strips until crispy and golden, about 2-3 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- Once soup is ready, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Ladle soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, and fresh chopped cilantro.
Tips
- Choose the right cut of beef: Chuck roast or stew meat works best for tender, flavorful results.
- Take time to brown the beef properly - this step builds incredible depth of flavor.
- Don't rush the simmering process; low and slow cooking helps tenderize the meat and blend the spices.
- For extra crispy tortilla strips, ensure your oil is hot and drain them immediately on paper towels.
- Fresh garnishes like cilantro and avocado are not optional - they're essential for authentic flavor and texture.
- Make extra! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- If you want to add heat, consider adding a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce when simmering.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 90mg
