Name: Mexican Potato Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons butter; 1 cup onion, minced; 2 tablespoons garlic, minced or pressed; 2 teaspoons dried Mexican oregano; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 pounds red potatoes, cubed; 12 ounces pepper jack cheese, shredded; 1 1/2 cups evaporated milk or half-and-half; 1/2 cup sour cream; Salt and pepper to taste

Introduction to Mexican Potato Soup

If you’re a busy young professional craving comfort food without taking all night to prepare it, look no further than Mexican Potato Soup. This hearty dish blends the creamy goodness of potatoes with vibrant Mexican flavors, making it a fantastic one-pot meal that’s both satisfying and quick to whip up. In just 45 minutes, you can enjoy a bowlful of warmth that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner.

This soup not only fills your belly but also engages your taste buds with spices like cumin and cayenne. Moreover, it’s effortlessly adaptable—throw in extra vegetables or swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Studies have shown that cooking at home can improve your mental well-being, so why not try something delightful that also supports your health?

Additionally, Mexican Potato Soup is an ideal meal prep option. Make a big batch, refrigerate, and reheat throughout the week for a quick lunch or dinner. You’ll be saving time and enjoying wholesome meals that nourish your body. If you're interested in crafting your culinary skills while keeping it simple, this recipe is a perfect starting point. Check out this article for more soup ideas!

Ingredients for Mexican Potato Soup

Essential ingredients for a delicious bowl of soup

When it comes to making a cozy and flavorful Mexican Potato Soup, having the right ingredients is key. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to create a dish that warms both the heart and the stomach.

Butter: 4 tablespoons adds richness.
Onion: 1 cup, minced, for a sweet and savory base.
Garlic: 2 tablespoons, minced or pressed, for that aromatic punch.
Dried Mexican oregano: 2 teaspoons brings authentic flavor.
Ground cumin: 2 teaspoons enhances the soup's warmth.
Ground coriander: 1 teaspoon adds a subtle citrus note.
Cayenne pepper: ¼ teaspoon for a touch of heat.
All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons to help thicken the soup.
Chicken broth: 4 cups sets the savory foundation.
Red potatoes: 2 pounds, cubed, as the star of this heartwarming dish.
Pepper jack cheese: 12 ounces, shredded, for creaminess and spice.
Evaporated milk or half-and-half: 1 ½ cups for a silky texture.
Sour cream: ½ cup for a tangy finish.
Salt and pepper: to taste, because who doesn’t love a perfectly seasoned soup?

Gather these ingredients, and you're on your way to creating a delightful Mexican Potato Soup that friends and family will crave! For more detailed cooking tips and techniques, check out sources like The Kitchn or Epicurious.

Step-by-step preparation of Mexican Potato Soup

Making the perfect Mexican Potato Soup is easier than you might think! Let’s break it down into simple steps that anyone can follow, ensuring you end up with a rich and comforting dish that's bursting with flavor.

Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients

The first step in crafting your delicious Mexican Potato Soup is to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 tablespoons butter
1 cup onion, minced
2 tablespoons garlic, minced or pressed
2 teaspoons dried Mexican oregano
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken broth
2 pounds red potatoes, cubed
12 ounces pepper jack cheese, shredded
1 ½ cups evaporated milk or half-and-half
½ cup sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Before you dive in, take a moment to wash and cube your potatoes; it’ll save you time later. This foundational step is key—you want everything ready to go when it’s time to cook!

Sauté the Aromatics

Next, grab a large pot and melt the butter over medium heat. Why choose butter? It adds a lovely richness to your Mexican Potato Soup. Once melted, toss in the minced onions, garlic, oregano, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Allow them to sauté until the onions turn transparent and fragrant—this usually takes about 5–7 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen and set the stage for the deliciousness to come.

Add the Broth and Potatoes

Time to stir in the flour. Whisk it in and let it cook for about a minute to get rid of that raw flour taste. Then, pour in the chicken broth and add your cubed red potatoes. Turn the heat up to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender—approximately 15 minutes. Boiling the potatoes at this stage ensures they absorb all the spices beautifully.

Mash the Potatoes to Your Liking

Once the potatoes are cooked, it's time to mash. Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes right in the pot until you achieve your desired consistency. Some might prefer a chunky texture, while others like it smooth. Feel free to customize this step to match your taste!

Stir in the Creamy Goodness

Finally, it’s time for the magic mixers: stir in the evaporated milk and shredded pepper jack cheese until the cheese has melted and everything is creamy. This adds a luxurious texture that makes your Mexican Potato Soup truly irresistible! Before serving, add the sour cream, salt, and pepper to taste.

Now, serve your soup warm, and enjoy every comforting spoonful. You’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients come together to create a dish with layers of flavor! For more tips on making soups, you might find this recipe roundup at Bon Appétit particularly useful!

Variations on Mexican Potato Soup

Add some spice: spicy jalapeño version

If you love a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños to your Mexican potato soup. A few tablespoons will enhance the flavor and bring an exciting kick. If you really want to turn up the heat, roast the jalapeños beforehand for a smoky depth. You could also sprinkle some chipotle powder for an extra layer of complexity.

Go vegetarian: substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth

For those who prefer a plant-based dish, swapping chicken broth for vegetable broth is an easy modification that doesn’t compromise on flavor. You can also toss in some black beans or corn for added texture and nutrition. This makes the soup not only vegetarian but also hearty and satisfying. Serve it with a dollop of guacamole or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a refreshing twist!

Let these variations inspire you to make your own unique creation. If you want to dive deeper into traditional Mexican flavors, check out this resource for more ingredient tips and techniques.

Cooking tips and notes for Mexican Potato Soup

How to enhance the flavor

To take your Mexican Potato Soup to the next level, experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving. Adding a dash of hot sauce can elevate the spice level, while crispy turkey bacon on top adds delightful texture. Consider roasting your potatoes beforehand for a deeper flavor or using smoked cheese for an extra flavor kick.

Tips for meal prepping

Meal prepping this soup is a breeze! Cook a larger batch and freeze portions in airtight containers. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave. For best results, add fresh toppings like sour cream and shredded cheese after reheating to maintain their freshness. Don’t forget: make your soup a bit thicker, as it may thin out during freezing.

For additional insights on meal prepping, check out resources from EatingWell.

Serving suggestions for Mexican Potato Soup

Toppings to elevate your soup experience

Enhance your Mexican potato soup by adding a variety of tantalizing toppings. Consider garnishing with:

Fresh cilantro: A classic herb that adds brightness.
Sliced jalapeños: For those who like a kick!
Avocado: Creamy and rich, it makes every bite a delight.
Chopped green onions: A fresh and crunchy texture to contrast the soup.
Crumbled Turkey Bacon: A smoky component that complements the soup's creaminess.

Experiment with these additions to find your perfect combo!

Perfect pairings with bread or salad

For a fulfilling meal, serve your Mexican potato soup alongside a crusty piece of artisan bread or a fresh salad. A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can balance the soup's creamy texture. Alternatively, pair it with a warm tortilla or corn bread to soak up every delicious drop. The combination not only fills the belly but creates a comforting dining experience. Have you tried these pairings? They're sure to impress your guests! For more salad inspiration, check out this expert guide on complementary side dishes.

Time breakdown for Mexican Potato Soup

Preparation time

Getting your ingredients ready for this delicious Mexican Potato Soup only takes about 20 minutes. Chop up those onions, mince the garlic, and cube those red potatoes. Trust me, having everything prepped makes the cooking process so much smoother.

Cooking time

For the cooking part, you’re looking at around 25 minutes. This includes sautéing, boiling, and blending flavors to create a rich and comforting soup that’s sure to please.

Total time

In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes from start to finish to whip up this hearty dish. In less than an hour, you can enjoy a bowl of warm, cheesy goodness that’s perfect for any occasion!

For more kitchen tips and delicious recipes, check out resources like the Food Network and Serious Eats for inspiration.

Nutritional Facts for Mexican Potato Soup

Calories

A generous serving of Mexican Potato Soup contains approximately 350 calories. This makes it a hearty, yet manageable choice for lunch or dinner.

Protein

Expect about 12 grams of protein per serving. This is primarily derived from the chicken broth and pepper jack cheese, ensuring a fulfilling meal.

Sodium

With roughly 800 milligrams of sodium per bowl, it’s important to monitor intake, especially if you’re watching your salt consumption. Consider using low-sodium chicken broth to make it healthier!

For more tips on healthy cooking, check out Healthline for insights on nutritious meal planning. Enjoy savoring this rich and flavorful Mexican Potato Soup!

FAQs about Mexican Potato Soup

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! If you're looking to prepare a dairy-free Mexican potato soup, simply substitute the evaporated milk and sour cream with non-dairy alternatives. Almond milk, coconut milk, or a cashew cream can work wonderfully, and dairy-free yogurt can be a great stand-in for sour cream. This way, you can enjoy all the flavors without any dairy concerns.

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is easy! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, your Mexican potato soup will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. Just give it a good stir when you reheat to ensure that all the flavors meld beautifully again.

Can I freeze Mexican Potato Soup?

Yes, you can! To freeze, make sure the soup is cooled down, then store it in freezer-safe containers. It’s best to consume it within 2 to 3 months for optimal flavor. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally. For more tips on freezing soups, check out The Spruce Eats.

Conclusion on Mexican Potato Soup

Simple comforts of homemade soup at your fingertips

In just 45 minutes, you can have a bowl of delicious Mexican potato soup that warms the heart and soothes the soul. This easy recipe brings together rich flavors and comforting textures, perfect for cozy evenings. Grab your ingredients and enjoy a slice of homemade comfort!