Vegetable Tortilla Soup

Updated Feb. 16, 2024

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Rating: 4 (1,147 ratings)

• Comments: 178 comments read

This vegetarian interpretation of tortilla soup draws its savory complexity from deeply caramelized cabbage, which imparts balanced layers of sweetness, bitterness, and earthiness.

The recipe leverages tortillas in two intentional ways: Finely pulverized tortilla chips boost the soup’s body and introduce a subtle, nutty undertone—grinding them to a fine consistency ensures they meld seamlessly without requiring post-cooking blending. Tortilla chips are also sprinkled on top as a garnish, adding a satisfying crunch that echoes the soup’s inherent corn flavor.

Treat this as a flexible base recipe—feel free to incorporate any additional vegetables you have available. As with classic tortilla soups, the final garnishes are critical for harmonizing the dish’s complex flavor profile. Lime is indispensable: its bright, bracing acidity elevates every component, tying together the soup’s rich and vibrant notes.