How to Make a Mexican Chili and Garlic Soup
Mexican chili and garlic soup, also known as "Sopa de Ajo," is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. With its rich spices and a kick of heat, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a delicious and satisfying meal. Follow this easy recipe to create your own Mexican chili and garlic soup in no time!
Ingredients
To make your Mexican chili and garlic soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1-2 dried red chilies (like guajillo or ancho), chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and chopped chilies, continuing to sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 2: Add the Spices
Stir in the ground cumin and cook for 1 minute to toast the spices, enhancing their flavor. This step is crucial for achieving the rich taste typical of Mexican chili soups.
Step 3: Incorporate the Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juice). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Add the Corn
Add the corn to the soup and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes. If you prefer a thicker consistency, consider blending a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the corn.
Step 5: Season to Taste
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Adjust the spice level by adding more chilies if desired.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Squeezing lime juice over the soup enhances its freshness and complements the richness of the garlic.
Conclusion
This Mexican chili and garlic soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. It's a warm, comforting dish that's sure to please anyone at the table. Whether you're looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to impress guests, this soup will definitely deliver. Enjoy your homemade creation and adjust the ingredients as necessary to make it your own!