Let’s talk about comfort in a bowl-yes, I’m talking about Tortilla Soup, and not just any tortilla soup, but the one inspired by the beloved Max & Erma’s. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill, quick microwave version. No, this soup is rich, hearty, and bursting with flavors that will make your taste buds do a little happy dance. Imagine tender shredded chicken, a perfectly balanced tomato-chicken broth, a hint of smoky spices, and those irresistible crispy tortilla strips floating on top. Whether you’re looking for a warm meal to cozy up with on a chilly evening or a dinner that will impress family and friends, this recipe delivers. And the best part? You can make it right in your own kitchen, capturing the same comforting essence that has made Max & Erma’s a favorite over the years.
Tortilla Soup Max And Erma’s Recipe
This is one of those recipes that feels special but is surprisingly approachable. Max & Erma’s version is loved for its perfectly seasoned broth, tender chicken, and the textural contrast of crunchy tortillas and creamy avocado. Every spoonful is a delightful combination of flavors and textures:
- Savory broth that’s slightly smoky and tangy
- Tender, juicy chicken that soaks up all the flavors
- Crispy tortilla strips that add a satisfying crunch
- Fresh toppings like avocado, cheese, and cilantro for brightness
It’s a soup that balances comfort and sophistication, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients Needed
To recreate this masterpiece at home, here’s what you’ll need. I like to break it down for clarity, so you know exactly what each component does:
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Chicken & Broth
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (shredded after cooking)
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought, but homemade is ideal)
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Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-2 medium tomatoes, diced or 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
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Spices & Flavorings
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
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Tortilla & Toppings
- Corn tortillas, cut into strips and fried or baked until crispy
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 avocado, diced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges for squeezing
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the cooking process. Follow along carefully, because each step layers flavor beautifully:
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Cook The Chicken
- In a large pot, add the chicken breasts and chicken broth.
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and set aside. Keep the broth in the pot.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- In a separate skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Add onions, garlic, and jalapeños. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
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Build The Broth
- Add the diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot with the chicken broth.
- Stir in the sautéed onions and garlic.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes to let flavors meld.
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Combine Chicken & Broth
- Return shredded chicken to the pot.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
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Prepare Tortilla Strips
- While the soup simmers, cut corn tortillas into thin strips.
- Fry in oil until crispy or bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
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Serve & Garnish
- Ladle soup into bowls.
- Top with tortilla strips, diced avocado, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the ingredients will elevate your soup game:
- Chicken: Using boneless skinless breasts keeps it lean, but thighs work if you prefer richer flavor.
- Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional, but you can experiment with flour for a softer twist.
- Spices: Cumin and chili powder provide the classic Mexican-inspired warmth, while smoked paprika adds depth.
- Avocado & Lime: These fresh ingredients brighten the soup and cut through the richness.
Expert Tips
Let’s get you cooking like a pro:
- Simmer gently: Avoid boiling the chicken too aggressively to prevent toughness.
- Layer flavors: Sautéing aromatics separately adds depth to the broth.
- Make ahead: The broth can be prepared a day in advance to intensify flavors.
- Crispy tortillas: Bake instead of frying for a healthier, less oily option.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with black beans or roasted vegetables.
- Spicy Kick: Add chipotle peppers in adobo or extra jalapeños.
- Creamy Style: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.
- Mexican Street Style: Garnish with pickled onions, radishes, or queso fresco.
Final Words
This Max & Erma’s-inspired Tortilla Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a journey. From simmering the broth to the satisfying crunch of tortilla strips, every step is a chance to experience the cozy, heartwarming feeling of homemade comfort food. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or whenever you need a bowl of happiness.
FAQs
What Is The Main Ingredient In Max And Erma’s Tortilla Soup?
The main ingredient in Max and Erma’s tortilla soup is a flavorful broth made from chicken, vegetables, and spices, with crispy tortilla strips added for texture.
How Can I Recreate The Taste Of Max And Erma’s Tortilla Soup At Home?
To recreate the soup, you’ll need ingredients like chicken breast, tomatoes, onions, garlic, chili powder, cumin, chicken broth, and crispy tortilla strips. The secret is in the seasoning blend and cooking the chicken to perfection.
What Makes Max And Erma’s Tortilla Soup Unique?
Max and Erma’s tortilla soup is unique due to its perfect balance of savory broth, slightly smoky spices, and the contrast between soft and crispy textures. The soup also has a slight heat, making it a comforting yet exciting dish.
Does Max And Erma’s Tortilla Soup Contain Dairy?
Yes, Max and Erma’s tortilla soup includes dairy in the form of sour cream, which adds a creamy texture and balances the spices in the soup.
Can I Make Max And Erma’s Tortilla Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting chicken with beans or vegetables like zucchini and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also omit the sour cream or use a dairy-free alternative.
What Are The Key Spices Used In Max And Erma’s Tortilla Soup?
Key spices include chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and sometimes a bit of paprika for smokiness. These spices create the warm, aromatic flavor profile characteristic of the soup.
How Long Does It Take To Prepare Max And Erma’s Tortilla Soup?
It generally takes about 30 to 40 minutes to prepare and cook Max and Erma’s tortilla soup, depending on how you cook the chicken. If using rotisserie chicken, it can be done in as little as 20 minutes.
Can I Make The Tortilla Strips In Advance For The Soup?
Yes, you can make the tortilla strips ahead of time. Just fry them until golden and store them in an airtight container. Add them to the soup right before serving to keep them crispy.
What Toppings Should I Use For Max And Erma’s Tortilla Soup?
Traditional toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced avocado, cilantro, and extra tortilla strips. Lime wedges and jalapeños can also be added for an extra burst of flavor.
Can I Freeze Max And Erma’s Tortilla Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup without the toppings. To preserve the texture of the tortilla strips, it’s best to add them fresh when reheating the soup.