This is Ali's all-time favorite soup, and it's delicious! This was the first dish she cooked for date night. Tortilla soup is fortified with spices and herbs. It is also thickened with tortillas, which is a great technique to know. Techniques for soup thickening vary from roux, to rice, to this technique of using tortillas. Still other soups are thickened with bread or potato, but the tortillas give it a full mouthfeel. It's a great cooking lesson that yields a delicious dish.
1. The technique of thickening the soup with blended, toasted tortillas is a cornerstone of authentic tortilla soup. It not only adds a rich, satisfying mouthfeel but also contributes a subtle, nutty corn flavor that ties the dish together. Ensure the tortillas are well-toasted before blending for maximum flavor.2. When toasting the dry spices, be mindful not to burn them; this can lead to a bitter flavor. Stir constantly for the specified time, adding a touch more oil if necessary.3. Exercise extreme caution when blending hot liquids. Only fill the blender halfway, start on the lowest speed, and vent the lid to allow steam to escape.4. Prep all your garnishes (avocado, cheese, cilantro, lime wedges, fried tortilla strips) before serving for efficient plating and to maintain soup temperature.