introduction
Taco soup is a wonderful dish that brings together all your favorite taco ingredients in a hearty soup form. This comforting meal is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something warm and filling. It’s also a hit for family gatherings or game days.
Making taco soup is not just about great taste; it’s also about convenience. With minimal prep time, it allows you to spend more time enjoying meals with loved ones. Lets dive into why this recipe is a must-try.
why make this recipe
Taco soup is an ideal choice for many reasons. Firstly, it is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time. It combines all the delicious flavors of tacos into a warm, comforting bowl, making it a beloved dish for both adults and kids alike.
Moreover, taco soup is highly customizable. You can add or replace ingredients based on personal preferences or what you have at home. It’s also a wonderful way to sneak in extra vegetables, making it a more nutritious option. You can serve this soup with various toppings like cheese and avocado, making it both versatile and delicious.
equipment needed for Taco Soup
To make taco soup, you will need some basic kitchen equipment. Here’s a quick list of what you’ll require:
- Large, deep soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or ladle for stirring
- Measuring spoons
- Can opener for the beans and tomatoes
- Cutting board and knife (if you are chopping additional ingredients)
- Serving bowls and ladles for serving
Having these items on hand will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
What You Need to Make Taco Soup
- 2 cans Great Northern Beans (14 ounce cans, rinsed and drained)
- 1 can diced tomatoes in their juices (28 ounces)
- 1 can Mexican style corn (14 ounces, drained)
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
- Toppings: Crushed tortilla chips, freshly grated cheese (sharp cheddar), sour cream or plain non-fat Greek yogurt, freshly chopped cilantro, avocado
These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and hearty soup that everyone will love.
How to Cook Taco Soup Step by Step
Begin by placing a large, deep soup pot over medium heat. Add all the ingredients into the pot, starting with the rinsed Great Northern beans. Next, pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juices, followed by the drained corn.
Stir everything gently to combine the ingredients. Then, pour in one cup of water, add the chili powder, dried parsley flakes, ground cumin, and all the seasonings. These spices will give the soup its taco flavor, so be sure to mix them in well.
Continue heating the mixture on medium heat until it’s warmed through. You’ll want to stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom. After a few minutes, taste the soup. This is your chance to adjust the seasoning! If it needs more salt or pepper, add it now to suit your tastes.
Once the soup is heated through and flavored just right, it’s time to serve. Ladle it into bowls and let everyone choose their favorite toppings. Whether it’s crushed tortilla chips for crunch, cheese for creaminess, or a dollop of sour cream, the choice is theirs.
For storage, you can keep any leftovers in the fridge for up to five days. Ensure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you wish to store the soup for longer, consider freezing it. In this case, use a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just remember to defrost it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Finally, when you’re ready to enjoy the soup again, warm it on the stovetop until steaming. Alternatively, you can heat it in the microwave for a few minutes, checking occasionally to ensure it’s evenly heated.
how to make Taco Soup
Making taco soup is a straightforward process. Start by gathering all your ingredients and equipment. Make sure you have your pots and measuring tools handy.
Once everything is ready, begin by rinsing and draining your cans of Great Northern beans. Then, add them to your pot. Next, open the can of diced tomatoes and let them join the beans, ensuring to include all the juice. This juice adds a wonderful texture and flavor.
Now, it’s time to add the Mexican-style corn. Draining it first allows the soup to not become too watery. Then, pour in the cup of water—the right amount will help the soup not feel too thick or too thin.
As you combine the ingredients, add the spices: chili powder, dried parsley, ground cumin, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and ground pepper. These seasonings are crucial for giving your taco soup that authentic flavor. Now, stir all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
After everything is combined, place the pot over medium heat. Allow it to warm up, stirring occasionally. As it heats, the aromas will fill your kitchen, drawing everyone’s attention. After about 10-15 minutes, your soup should be heated through.
Tasting the soup before serving is essential. This step allows you to adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want it spicier, add more chili powder. If it needs salt, sprinkle in some more. After making your adjustments, prepare to serve.
how to serve Taco Soup
Serving taco soup is one of the most enjoyable parts. Begin by ladling the steaming soup into individual bowls. Each portion should be generous, ensuring everyone gets a hearty serving.
Now comes the fun part—toppings! Place a variety of toppings in small bowls next to the soup, allowing guests to customize their meals. Some popular choices include crushed tortilla chips, which add a delightful crunch, and freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, which melts beautifully into the warm soup.
You can also offer sour cream or plain non-fat Greek yogurt for creaminess. Freshly chopped cilantro and sliced avocado can add color and vibrancy to the presentation. Let people know they can mix and match according to their preferences.
If you are hosting a gathering, consider setting up a taco soup bar. This can allow your guests to feel involved in the serving process and provides an interactive dining experience. Place all the toppings out with the soup so everyone can help themselves.
Encourage guests to sprinkle their selected toppings generously on their soup. The combination of flavors and textures will surely make each bowl unique and enjoyable.
what to serve with Taco Soup
Taco soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but you may want to consider some side dishes to round out the meal. A simple salad can be a refreshing companion to the rich, savory soup. A classic green salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed with a light vinaigrette works nicely.
You might also consider serving cornbread. The slightly sweet, buttery flavor of cornbread complements taco soup perfectly. Whether it’s a warm slice or cornbread muffins, they can be a lovely addition to your meal.
Another side option could be quesadillas. Cheesy quesadillas filled with different ingredients can create an enticing pairing with taco soup. They are easy to make and can be stuffed with your favorite fillings.
If you want something a little lighter, tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole make great appetizers, allowing guests to nibble while they wait for the soup. These lighter options can create a wonderful balance to the meal.
how to store Taco Soup
Storing taco soup is quite easy, allowing you to enjoy leftovers without any hassle. Once you’ve ladled all the servings you need, let the remaining soup cool down a bit. It’s essential to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
You can keep taco soup in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a fantastic make-ahead option. Just ensure you seal the container well to avoid spoilage.
What if you have many leftovers, or you want to save it for later? Freezing taco soup is a viable option. To do this effectively, transfer the cooled soup into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion when frozen. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply take the frozen container out and let it defrost overnight in the refrigerator. After it’s thawed, you can warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s heated through. Just be sure to stir occasionally for even heating.
tips to make Taco Soup
To enhance your taco soup experience, you might want to follow these simple tips. First, don’t be afraid to experiment with your spices. If you prefer a spicier kick, adding fresh jalapeños or extra chili powder can elevate the flavors.
Another tip is to incorporate different beans or even add cooked ground meat if you desire. Substituting in black beans or pinto beans works wonderfully. This will add variety and make the dish your own.
Consider garnishing your soup with fresh lime juice for an added zing. A squeeze of lime can brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing touch.
Having fresh herbs like cilantro on hand can also take it to the next level. Chopped green onions can make an excellent additional topping too, introducing a fresh crunch.
Lastly, don’t forget to adjust the consistency. If you find the soup too thick after it has cooled, adding a bit more water or vegetable broth to reheat can help.
variation
Taco soup is wonderfully adaptable, allowing for many variations. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, replace any meat with additional beans or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the flavor further.
For those who enjoy spiciness, adding diced green chiles can create a delicious heat without overwhelming the dish.
If you’re a fan of creamy textures, mixing in a dollop of cream cheese or blending part of the soup can create a rich, creamy consistency.
Another alternative is to make it a chicken taco soup by adding shredded rotisserie chicken. This provides a different flavor profile while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
No matter what tweaks you choose, the essence of taco soup remains delightful and enjoyable.
best time to make Taco Soup
Taco soup is perfect for various occasions throughout the year. It shines during the colder months when everyone craves warmth and comfort. If you’re hosting a gathering, this is a fantastic dish to prepare anytime.
It’s also an excellent recipe for game day. People love digging into a warm bowl of soup while cheering on their favorite teams. Its interactive topping bar will keep guests entertained and satisfied.
Moreover, taco soup works for casual family dinners. You can toss everything into a pot and have a delicious meal ready in no time. The ease of preparation makes it an ideal solution for busy weeknights.
This recipe is flexible enough to work at any time, whether it’s the height of summer or the depths of winter. Whenever you choose to make it, taco soup will always be a hit.
common mistakes to avoid
When making taco soup, several common mistakes can impact the final dish. One is not rinsing the beans properly, which can lead to a gritty texture. Always take the time to rinse and drain canned beans for the best results.
Another mistake is not tasting the soup while cooking. You might miss out on adjusting the seasoning to your liking. Don’t skip the tasting step; it can make a big difference in flavor.
Adding too much water can also dilute the flavors. Start with the specified one cup and add more only if necessary. The goal is to have a rich, flavorful broth that complements the beans and vegetables.
Sometimes, off-brand canned items may have different flavor profiles. Always try to stick with trusted brands for canned tomatoes and beans to ensure consistent quality and taste.
Lastly, forgetting to let the soup cool before storing can lead to sogginess. Be mindful of this, as proper storage can maintain the soup’s integrity for longer.
nutritional notes
Taco soup is nutritious and packed with protein and fiber, thanks to the beans. The various spices not only contribute to flavor but also offer various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this soup a fulfilling dish for vegetarians and vegans. The added vegetables provide essential vitamins and nutrients, making every bowl a healthy choice.
When topped with fresh ingredients like avocado and cilantro, you’re incorporating healthy fats and extra nutrients. However, be mindful of toppings like sour cream and cheese, which can add calories.
If you manage portions and opt for healthier toppings, taco soup can fit well into a balanced diet while still being comforting and satisfying.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of beans?
Absolutely! You can substitute Great Northern beans for black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans.
2. How can I make taco soup spicier?
You can add diced jalapeños, extra chili powder, or even hot sauce for a spicy kick.
3. Can I make taco soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for about 3-4 hours.
conclusion
Taco soup is a delightful and uncomplicated dish that brings joy to any meal. Its rich flavors and warm texture make it a favorite among families. With simple ingredients and the option to customize, it’s a versatile recipe that can fit many diets and preferences.
From casual dinners to lively gatherings, taco soup never disappoints. Whether you enjoy it with friends or family, it offers comfort and satisfaction. Don’t hesitate to try your hand at this easy yet flavorful dish—your taste buds will thank you!
