Imagine a soup so packed with flavor that it'll make your taste buds dance and your kitchen smell like a Mexican fiesta! This Crockpot Spicy Vegetarian Tortilla Soup is not just a meal, it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Whether you're a vegetarian looking for a protein-packed meal or just someone who loves bold, vibrant flavors, this recipe is about to become your new obsession. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a soup that's as easy to make as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until onions become translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Transfer sautéed onion and garlic to the crockpot. Add diced bell pepper, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir all ingredients to combine thoroughly.
- Cover the crockpot and set to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and develop a rich, complex taste.
- After cooking time is complete, taste the soup and adjust seasonings if needed. If the soup seems too thick, you can add a little more vegetable broth to reach desired consistency.
- When ready to serve, ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each serving with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch and texture.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro just before serving to add a bright, fresh flavor and aromatic element to the soup.
- Serve hot and enjoy your spicy vegetarian tortilla soup!
Tips
- Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding to the crockpot is crucial - it helps develop a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
- Don't rush the cooking time! The 6-hour slow cook allows the spices to fully infuse and the vegetables to become perfectly tender.
- For extra heat, consider adding a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper when adding the spices.
- Fresh cilantro is key - chop it right before serving to maintain its bright, fresh flavor and aroma.
- Experiment with toppings! Try adding sliced avocado, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese to customize your soup.
- If you're short on time, this soup can also be made on the stovetop in about 30-40 minutes, though the slow cooker method allows for deeper flavor development.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and often taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
