Linda CainAs someone who loves a good bowl of soup, I must say, there’s something special about tortilla soup. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with flavor. My journey with Neiman Marcus’s tortilla soup started on a chilly evening when I visited their famous cafe.
The blend of ingredients mingled perfectly, and I couldn’t resist asking for the recipe. After a bit of research and experimentation, I’ve crafted my own version that brings restaurant-quality flavors right to my kitchen. Let me take you on this flavorful journey.
What is Neiman Marcus Tortilla Soup?
At its essence, Neiman Marcus tortilla soup is a delightful blend of rich broth, crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and, of course, those all-important tortilla strips. What sets this soup apart is its lavish presentation and layers of flavor. Every spoonful tells a story, mixing the smoky notes of roasted tomatoes with the zest of fresh lime. It’s more than just a dish; it’s an experience that warms the soul.
Why You’ll Love This Neiman Marcus Tortilla Soup Recipe
Let’s be real: life can get hectic. But this tortilla soup isn’t complicated. In fact, you can whip it up in under an hour. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends. You may wonder why I find this recipe so endearing. The answer is simple: it combines comforting elements with fresh ingredients that give you that ‘just-right’ feeling. Plus, who doesn’t adore a dish that allows for creativity? Add toppings like avocado, cilantro, or cheese to make it your own.
The Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, minced (optional for heat)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as Monterey Jack or cheddar)
- Fresh cilantro, avocado, and lime for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and let it cook until translucent, usually about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The aroma is captivating. Toss in the diced bell pepper and jalapeño, cooking until soft, which will take about 3 more minutes. You want layers of flavor to develop right from the start!
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
Time to add the chicken broth, shredded chicken, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Sprinkle in the ground cumin and chili powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring to combine all the ingredients. The soup will start to come alive with colors and scents—a sign that good things are coming.
Step 3: Let it Simmer
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Taste it after a few minutes. Does it need more salt or pepper? Now’s the time to adjust.
Step 4: Prepare the Tortilla Strips
While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the tortilla strips on a baking sheet, lightly coat them with oil, and season with salt. Bake for about 10 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. Trust me; it’s worth the effort for that crunchy texture!
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once your soup is ready, ladle it into bowls. Top each serving with a generous handful of crispy tortilla strips. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro. If you’re feeling zesty, a squeeze of lime goes a long way. Dig in!
Tips & Tricks
- Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day. It’s perfect for meal prep.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy heat, add some diced chipotle peppers or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is an excellent way to use that rotisserie chicken from your local grocery.
- Customize the Toppings: Feel free to add sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess, or fresh avocado slices for added richness.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with black beans and vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian version.
Nutrition Information
Can I Store Neiman Marcus Tortilla Soup?
Absolutely! This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave. The tortilla strips, however, are best made fresh. You can add new ones just before serving for that delightful crunch.
What Can I Serve with Neiman Marcus Tortilla Soup?
Pair your soup with warm cornbread or crispy quesadillas for a full meal. A light salad can complement the dish nicely, especially one with a fresh vinaigrette. For a real treat, serve it with a side of guacamole and tortilla chips for extra crunch.
Variations
Here are some creative takes on this classic soup:
- Black Bean Tortilla Soup: Swap shredded chicken for a can of black beans. This boosts fiber and provides a different flavor profile.
- Creamy Tortilla Soup: Add a splash of cream or coconut milk to the base during the simmering stage for a rich texture.
- Tomato Basil Tortilla Soup: Incorporate fresh basil into the soup for a fragrant twist. Toss in chopped tomatoes for extra freshness.
- Paleo Tortilla Soup: Use zucchini noodles instead of corn tortillas for a lower-carb option that’s still filling.
- Seafood Tortilla Soup: Substitute chicken with shrimp or fish for a coastal flair. Just add seafood in the last few minutes of cooking.
Neiman Marcus Tortilla Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 4 cups of finely diced onions
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon of jalapeño pepper seeded and finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons of ground cumin
- 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 quarts of chicken stock or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup of crushed tomatoes canned
- 1/2 cup of mild picante salsa adjust to taste
- 2 cups of heavy cream
- 3 cups of shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and let it cook until translucent, usually about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The aroma is captivating. Toss in the diced bell pepper and jalapeño, cooking until soft, which will take about 3 more minutes. You want layers of flavor to develop right from the start!
- Time to add the chicken broth, shredded chicken, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Sprinkle in the ground cumin and chili powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring to combine all the ingredients. The soup will start to come alive with colors and scents—a sign that good things are coming.
- Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Taste it after a few minutes. Does it need more salt or pepper? Now’s the time to adjust.
- While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the tortilla strips on a baking sheet, lightly coat them with oil, and season with salt. Bake for about 10 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. Trust me; it’s worth the effort for that crunchy texture!
- Once your soup is ready, ladle it into bowls. Top each serving with a generous handful of crispy tortilla strips. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro. If you’re feeling zesty, a squeeze of lime goes a long way. Dig in!
Notes
- Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day. It’s perfect for meal prep.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy heat, add some diced chipotle peppers or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is an excellent way to use that rotisserie chicken from your local grocery.
- Customize the Toppings: Feel free to add sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess, or fresh avocado slices for added richness.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with black beans and vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian version.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
There you have it—my take on Neiman Marcus tortilla soup. It’s hearty, warm, and full of flavor, perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself. Whether you’ve had a long day or just want a treat, this soup does the trick.
So, when life gives you a chilly evening, grab your ingredients and let this recipe transform your dinner table into a cozy haven. Trust me, each bowl will spark joy, warmth, and maybe a few compliments. Enjoy!
