Today, I’m excited to share a fantastic culinary solution that’s perfect for all of you juggling a million things at once – our Spicy Tortilla Soup Freezer Meal Recipe. This soup is a symphony of flavors inspired by the Southwest, and the best part is that you can prepare it ahead of time and stash it in your freezer for those days when cooking seems nearly impossible.
Imagine this: steaming bowl of hearty soup, brimming with the rich, savory essence of tomatoes, chili spices, and tender vegetables. It’s a warm hug on a chilly evening or a quick, wholesome meal during a busy workweek. Now, imagine having that comforting goodness within arm’s reach anytime you need it – that’s the beauty of freezer meals!
Whether you are a busy parent, a working mom, a single dad, you are in for a treat with this conveniently delectable vegan tortilla soup. With our Spicy Tortilla Soup, you can say goodbye to the stress of last-minute meal planning. It’s time to reclaim those precious moments with your family, knowing that a warm, satisfying bowl of goodness is just a quick reheat away.
Why you’ll love this Quick and Easy Spicy Tortilla Soup
Effortless Preparation
Freezer Friendly
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients
Budget Friendly
Versatile and Filling
Leftover Magic
Spicy Tortilla Soup Freezer Meal Recipe
Hannah Stewart
It's time to reclaim those precious moments with your family, knowing that a warm, satisfying bowl of goodness is just a quick reheat away.
Red Lentils for Black Beans: Replace the black beans with red lentils. Red lentils cook relatively quickly and absorb the flavors of the soup, making them a great substitution for beans. Rinse and add 1 cup of red lentils to the soup, along with the diced tomatoes.
Fire-Roasted Tomatoes for Diced Tomatoes: Swap the diced tomatoes for fire-roasted diced tomatoes. Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky flavor that enhances the soup’s depth.
Vegetable Broth for Broth of Preference: Use vegetable broth instead of the broth of your preference for a purely plant-based version. Vegetable broth complements the vegan nature of the recipe.
Additions:
Corn Kernels: Add 1 cup of frozen corn kernels to the soup for a touch of sweetness and texture. Corn is a classic addition to tortilla soup.
Quinoa: Incorporate 1/2 cup of rinsed quinoa for extra protein and heartiness. Quinoa cooks well in soup and adds a pleasant nutty flavor.
Bell Peppers: Dice one or two bell peppers (red, yellow, or green) and sauté them with the chopped onion before adding them to the soup. Bell peppers provide extra color, flavor, and nutrients.
These substitutions and additions will bring variety and additional flavors to your Vegan Tortilla Soup while ensuring that all the ingredients can be safely frozen for convenient future meals.
How to Reheat and Store Spicy Tortilla Soup after cooking?
Best way to store Healthy Spicy Tortilla Soup leftovers?
Preserving the quality and safety of your Spicy Tortilla Soup leftovers necessitates proper storage methods. Begin by allowing your leftovers to cool to room temperature, being cautious not to leave them out for more than two hours. Once they’ve cooled, transfer them into airtight containers or resealable plastic bags, making sure to minimize air inside to prevent freezer burn or spoilage.
Labeling the leftover containers with the date is crucial for monitoring freshness. Should you plan to store them for an extended period, turn to the freezer. Frozen leftovers can retain their quality for several months, guaranteeing you can conveniently enjoy your preferred dishes while reducing food waste.
How Long will Spicy Tortilla Soup last in the fridge?
Your leftovers have a good shelf life in the fridge, typically lasting for approximately 4-5 days. This generous time frame allows you to savor those delicious meals once more.
Now, suppose you ever find yourself with an abundance of leftovers and doubt whether you can enjoy them all in time. In that case, your trusty freezer is the solution. It extends the lifespan of your leftovers while preserving their taste and quality.
Can I freeze Convenient Spicy Tortilla Soup after cooking?
Freezing leftover Spicy Tortilla Soup is a convenient way to enjoy a quick and satisfying meal later on. To freeze it properly, allow the Tortilla Soup to cool down to room temperature. Avoid putting hot soup directly into the freezer, as it can raise the temperature inside and affect the quality of other frozen items.
Decide how much soup you would like to freeze in each serving. You can use individual containers or freezer-safe bags for single servings or large ones for family-sized-portions. Its a good idea to leave some space at the top to allow expansion.
Use a marker to label each container with the date and recipe. This will help you keep track of how long its been in the freezer. Carefully ladle the soup into the containers or bags, ensuring they are sealed tightly to prevent any air from getting it.
Place the labeled bags or containers in the coldest part of your freezer. For optimal freshness, try to use the frozen Vegan Tortilla Soup within 2-3 months.
How to Reheat Make-Ahead Spicy Tortilla Soup?
When you are ready to enjoy your soup, make sure that your soup has been thawed, if starting from a frozen point. Once thawed in the fridge, you may reheat your leftovers in the stovetop or microwave.
If you are using the microwave method for reheating, put your leftovers in a microwave safe dish, and heat in 1-2 minute intervals. Between each interval, stir your soup and add a little water or broth to achieve the desired consistency.
If you are reheating using your stovetop, place your desired portion into the stovetop saucepan, under medium heat, and stir occasionally during the cooking period. Serve with your favorite toppings, and you’ll have a delicious and convenient meal at your fingertips.
Spicy Tortilla Soup Freezer Meal Recipe FAQs
Is a Spicy Tortilla Soup healthy?
Spicy Tortilla Soup can be a healthy choice when prepared with nutritious ingredients. Spicy Tortilla soup is packed with vegetables, beans, and spices, providing essential vitamins, fiber, and plant-based protein. Additionally, Spicy tortilla soup is low in saturated fats, making it a heart healthy soup. The overall healthiness of your soup depends on the specific recipe and ingredients used. To keep your soup on the healthier side, use low-sodium vegetable broth, or homemade broth, limit the added oils and fats, and go easy on the high-calorie toppings like vegan cheese or sour cream.
How can you control the spiciness of a Tortilla Soup?
You can easily control the spiciness of your spicy tortilla soup by adjusting the amount and type of chili peppers or spices you use. To reduce the heat spice, use fewer chili peppers, remove their seeds and membranes, or opt for milder varieties like poblano peppers. Also, you can balance the spice with other ingredients like lime juice, sugar, or a dollop of vegan yogurt or sour cream. Start with a smaller amount of spice, taste, then gradually add more until you achieve the desired level of heat. Remember that you can always make it spicier, but it is challenging to tone down excessive spiciness once it’s added.
Can you make a Spicy Tortilla Soup into a Freezer Meal?
Yes, you can absolutely turn a Spicy tortilla soup into a freezer meal. In fact, many people find it convenient to prep larger batches and freeze portions for later usage. Simply add all ingredients, except the chicken broth or broth of preference, into a labeled freezer bag, remove excess air, seal, and freeze for up to 3 months.
What is the best broth to use for a Spicy Tortilla Soup?
The best broth for a Spicy tortilla soup is going to be a high-quality vegetable broth. Look for low-sodium options if you are concerned about salt content. Vegetable broth complements the vegan nature of the dish and allows the flavors of the vegetables, spices, and beans to shine. You can also make your own vegetable broth at home by simmering a mix of vegetables, herbs, and water, which gives you the control over the flavor and sodium content of the broth.
What pairs well with a Spicy Tortilla Soup?
Spicy tortilla soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. Some popular options include cornbread, avocado slices, tortilla chips for crunch, or a simple green salad with a zesty dressing. You can also top off your soup with vegan shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, diced red onions, or a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor and texture.
What are substitutions that can be made in this recipe?
There are several substitutions you can make in a Spicy tortilla soup recipe to accommodate dietary preferences or ingredient availability. For example, you can substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans. Instead of diced tomatoes, consider using fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky twist. Red lentils can replace beans for added protein. To make your soup heartier, incorporate cooked quinoa or brown rice. If you are looking for added vegetables, try adding diced bell peppers or zucchini. Adjust the level of spiciness by carrying the type and amount of chili peppers or spices used.
Can I freeze soup in a mason jar?
Yes, freezing your soup in a mason jar is a great way to store your soup. There are a few things to consider when using your mason jars to store. First, use freezer-safe mason jars to prevent breakage due to expansion. Leave adequate space at the top, usually an inch or so, to allow for expansion without cracking the glass. It is also essential to let the soup cool to room temperature before filling the jars and freeze them. Finally, avoid tightening the jar lids too much until the soup is fully frozen to prevent pressure build up. Properly done, freezing in mason jars can be a convenient way to store and reheat your vegan tortilla soup.
What is the historical context of a Tortilla Soup?
Tortilla soup, originating from Mexico, has a rich history. It is believed to have roots dating back to the Aztec, with variations found throughout the country. The traditional version, known as “Sopa Azteca,” features fried corn tortilla strips, which are added to a flavorful tomato and chili pepper-based broth. Over time, different regions and families have put their own spin on the recipe, leading to regional variations. Tortilla soup has become a beloved dish in Mexican cuisine and has gained popularity worldwide as well, with variations that include vegan versions like Vegan Tortilla Soup.
What are the regional variations of a Spicy Tortilla Soup?
Spicy Tortilla Soup can vary by region and personal preferences. In Mexico, you may find variations with different chili peppers being used. Some regions emphasize smoky flavors, while others focus on the use of local vegetables and herbs. In the USA, Tex-Mex versions may incorporate ingredients like corn and black beans. Some recipes use tortilla strips as a garnish, while others blend them into the soup for added thickness. Regional variations add diversity to the dish, allowing you to explore different flavors and styles of vegan tortilla soup.
As a full time working mom of four, I know how hard it is to find time (or energy) to cook. That’s why I’ve spent over a decade perfecting freezer meal recipes to make sure they’re not only quick to prepare but packed with flavors the whole family will love!
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