# Alluring Sopa de Lima (Mexican Lime Soup)
## Introduction
Feeling like a gust of fresh breeze on a bright day, Sopa de Lima, the soul-soothing Mexican Lime soup, is a taste to remember. Perfectly combining the refreshing tanginess of lime with the wholesome goodness of chicken, it is a soup that offers warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Ideal for mealtime and exceptionally easy to prepare, this is a dish that promises a flavorsome journey to Mexico.
## Why Make This Recipe
Think of a single dish that serves as a nutritious meal, is packed with flavors, and gets prepared in less than an hour. That’s Sopa de Lima for you! Uncomplicated yet vibrant, this soup can turn even a simple dinner into a culinary fiesta. The zesty punch of lime mixed with tender chicken and aromatic spices will transport you to the heart of Mexico.
## How to Make Sopa de Lima
Embark on a culinary journey with the truly Mexican, zest-filled Sopa de Lima. Follow this straightforward guide to recreate the magic of authentic Mexican flavors in your kitchen.
## Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium tomato, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 limes, juiced
– 1 lime, sliced for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1 avocado, sliced
– 4 corn tortillas, cut into strips
– 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
## Directions
1. Start with heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and stir until it turns translucent.
2. Add garlic, tomato, cumin, and oregano into the pot. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
3. Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring it to a boil. Tenderly add the chicken breasts, reduce heat, and leave it to simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked thoroughly.
4. Gently remove the chicken from the pot, shred it finely with a fork, and return it to the simmering pot.
5. Add the lime juice into the pot, and season it with salt and pepper. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes.
6. In a separate skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Fry the tortilla strips until they turn golden and crispy. Use paper towels to drain these.
7. Relish the soup by serving it in bowls, garnished with lime slices, cilantro, avocado, crispy tortilla strips, and jalapeño slices if you dare to go spicy.
## How to Serve Sopa de Lima
Give your regular mealtime a special touch by serving Sopa de Lima as the main course, accompanied by warmed tortillas or crusty bread. Do not forget the cilantro, lime slices, and tortillas for garnish to create a visually appealing meal for your loved ones.
## How to Store Sopa de Lima
To save the Sopa de Lima for later use, allow the soup to cool down at room temperature and then transfer it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, maintaining its full flavors.
## Tips to Make Sopa de Lima
– Adding a splash of lime juice right before serving enhances the tanginess of the soup.
– Try using homemade chicken broth for the best flavor.
– Pan-fry the chicken before adding it to the broth for an even more aromatic soup.
## Variation
Imagine replacing chicken with shrimp or tilapia for a seafood-infused zest. Yes, seafood variation of Sopa de Lima is equally delicious and hearty.
## FAQs (minimum three FAQ)
– Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian variant?
– Yes, you can use vegetable broth and substitute chicken with tofu or assorted vegetables for a vegetarian version.
– What if I don’t have fresh limes?
– You can use lime juice from a bottle but be cautious, as it could turn the soup bitter. Fresh limes work best for this recipe.
– Can I make it spicier?
– Yes, of course. If you like your soup hot, add more jalapenos or even a dash of hot sauce to bring up the heat.