Spicy Tortilla Soup: My Go‑To Comfort in a Bowl (with Free‑Range Turkey)

If you’re looking for a soup that’s both hearty and full of flavour, this Spicy Tortilla Soup with free‑range turkey is my absolute go‑to. It’s spicy but not overpowering, filling yet light, and perfect for cosy nights when you just want something comforting and satisfying. I love serving it with a chunk of crusty bread or a simple green salad, it’s one of those recipes that makes you slow down and savour every spoonful.

I like to add shredded free‑range turkey to my version, it makes the soup even more delicious and protein-packed. 

Here’s how I make it:

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 1–2 fresh red chillies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 400g can chopped tomatoes

• 1 litre vegetable or chicken stock

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 2 corn tortillas, cut into strips

• 200g cooked free-range turkey, shredded (optional)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Juice of 1 lime

• Fresh coriander (cilantro) to serve

• Grated cheese or avocado for garnish (optional)

Method

1. Sauté the base: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over a medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook gently until soft and fragrant.

2. Add the peppers and spices: Stir in the red and green peppers, chillies, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for a few minutes until the peppers soften slightly.

3. Simmer the soup: Add the chopped tomatoes and stock. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes.

4. Add the beans: Stir in the black beans and cook for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through.

5. Prepare the tortillas: While the soup simmers, lightly fry the tortilla strips in a little oil until golden and crispy, or toast them in the oven.

6. This soup really comes alive with the addition of shredded free-range turkey. If you want to make it extra special. 
7. Season and serve: Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and lime juice. Ladle the soup into bowls, top with the crispy tortilla strips, a sprinkle of coriander, and, if you like, a little grated cheese or avocado.