Sarah Zubiate, founder of ZUBI'S, holding a glass of wine in a kitchen setting with a warm, inviting atmosphere

By Sarah Zubiate
Founder and Farmer at ZUBI’S

Savor the Season: Crafting Cozy Mexican Tortilla Soup with ZUBI’S All-Natural Salsa

As the vibrant hues of summer gently give way to the crisp, embracing air of autumn, a familiar craving awakens within me: a deep longing for warmth, profound comfort, and the simple, grounding pleasures of home. The changing weather inevitably ushers in an increased desire for cozy blankets, a comforting glass of wine, meaningful snuggles with loved ones, and, above all, a steaming, soul-satisfying bowl of homemade soup. While my appreciation for a good glass of wine has been a cherished, constant companion since those unprecedented times of COVID, its perfect pairing with the ritual of cooking truly elevates the entire experience into something magical and profoundly personal.

For my children, and indeed for me, soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a heartwarming tradition passed down through generations. Our absolute favorite, a recipe that perfectly embodies both rich flavor and deep family love, is my signature Mexican Tortilla Soup. What makes this particular recipe truly shine, you ask? Without a doubt, it’s the rich, authentic, and unparalleled taste delivered by ZUBI’S All-Natural Salsa. Made with the freshest, most wholesome ingredients, our salsa isn’t merely a condiment; it is the very heart and soul of this vibrant, comforting soup, infusing every spoonful with a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible and undeniably ZUBI’S.

The Art of Cooking: More Than Just a Meal, It’s a Moment and a Lifestyle

To embark on this delightful culinary journey and create the most exquisite tortilla soup, you’ll need more than just a list of ingredients; you’ll need the right tools and, perhaps most importantly, the right mindset. Begin with your favorite sturdy stockpot – for an unparalleled cooking experience that ensures even heat distribution and professional results, I wholeheartedly recommend exploring the exquisite Mauviel Copper Stock Pot. Its striking beauty and exceptional functionality are truly unmatched in the kitchen. A reliable hand mixer will also prove to be your indispensable best friend, especially for shredding chicken quickly and efficiently – a true game-changer in terms of time-saving, much like the Breville Hand Mixer, which has personally saved me countless hours in my bustling kitchen. And, of course, no truly enjoyable cooking session in my home is ever truly complete without a delightful glass of WINE!

Indeed, I am notoriously known for cooking nearly all of my dinners with a glass of something delicious in hand. There’s a certain intangible magic that happens when you’re whirling away in the kitchen, preparing a delightful, flavorful meal for your cherished family and friends, all while accompanied by a lovely glass of wine and some truly good music. This blend transforms what might otherwise be a mundane chore into a cherished pastime, a daily routine into a joyful and anticipated ritual. The enticing aromas mingling in the air, the rhythmic, meditative chopping, the gentle, comforting sizzle, all set to the backdrop of my favorite tunes and the occasional, perfectly timed sip of a perfectly paired vintage – these are the precious moments I truly live for. It’s about more than just food; it’s about the experience, the connection, and the sheer pleasure of creation.

From City Life to Ranch Rhythms: Cooking, Community, and Connection During Unprecedented Times

For those who might be new to my personal stories and experiences, my family and I have the unique privilege of splitting our time between the bustling, vibrant energy of Highland Park and the serene, expansive beauty of our ranch and farm nestled in East Texas. This wonderful duality of life, with its unique challenges and undeniable charms, deeply influences my holistic approach to food, family, and community. It was during the peak of the global pandemic that this beautiful blend of community spirit and culinary creativity truly blossomed. Our family, along with five other wonderful families, made the heartfelt decision to quarantine together at the ranch. Imagine the scene: five families, a multitude of active, energetic kiddos running wild and free, and an utterly insane number of constantly hungry people to feed! To manage this joyful yet demanding chaos, we devised a communal meal “sign-up sheet” – a system that, while sometimes delightfully chaotic, provided a fascinating and humbling glimpse into how our ancestors might have lived, sharing responsibilities, resources, and the simple joy of breaking bread together.

Through it all, one thing became abundantly clear and universally understood: when it was my turn to cook, everyone knew that the kitchen would transform into a lively, infectious hub of activity. Music would be jamming, filling every corner with good vibes and rhythmic energy, and a glass of wine would invariably be in my hand. It’s a tradition born out of pure, unadulterated joy and a deep-seated belief that cooking should always be an immersive, delightful, and celebratory experience. I truly live for the simple pleasure of using my favorite wine glass, filled with an appropriate, perfectly complementary wine, and accompanied by the ideal soundtrack. These carefully chosen elements don’t just transform the act of feeding my family; they elevate it into a profound act of love, a creative art form, and a cherished celebration of life itself. And now, without further ado, let’s get back to the true star of the show – my absolutely yummy, incredibly comforting, and deeply satisfying Mexican Tortilla Soup recipe. I genuinely can’t wait to hear your thoughts and experiences if you give it a try!

A vibrant bowl of ZUBI'S Chicken Tortilla Soup generously garnished with fresh avocado slices, chopped cilantro, and crispy tortilla strips, ready to be enjoyed.

ZUBI’S Signature Chicken Tortilla Soup: A Wholesome Recipe for Every Lifestyle

This exceptional recipe is meticulously designed to be as versatile as it is profoundly delicious, offering thoughtful options for everyone at your table, regardless of dietary preference. Whether you’re a devoted meat-lover or diligently seeking a plant-based, Top 8 Allergen-Free option, ZUBI’S has thoughtfully crafted a solution for you. Revel in the rich, authentic flavors of our classic ZUBI’S Chicken Tortilla Soup, or with simple modifications, effortlessly adapt it to create a delightful and equally satisfying ZUBI’S Vegetarian or Vegan Tortilla Soup. The secret to its incredible flavor profile and remarkable adaptability lies intrinsically in the superior quality of the ingredients, especially our ZUBI’S All-Natural Salsa, which provides a robust, deeply authentic, and vibrant base for any variation you choose.

INGREDIENTS: The Foundation of Unforgettable Flavor

ZUBI’S All-Natural Salsa: Two 16 oz jars of our signature ZUBI’S Salsa. This is the undisputed heart of this soup, providing unparalleled, fresh flavor and an authentic zest that truly defines the dish.
Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. For those opting for a plant-based version, simply omit the chicken entirely and instead, incorporate two cans of thoroughly rinsed and well-drained black beans for a robust, protein-rich alternative that doesn’t compromise on texture or nutrition.
Carrots: 3 large, fresh carrots, thinly sliced. They contribute a subtle touch of natural sweetness and infuse the broth with essential nutrients and a pleasant texture.
Organic Coco Aminos Gingery Lime: ½ cup of a high-quality brand like Big Tree Farms. This unique and innovative ingredient adds a subtle, complex depth, a hint of umami, and a bright, refreshing ginger-lime kick that elegantly elevates the entire soup profile without relying on soy or excessive sodium.
Broth: Two 32 oz cartons of low-sodium chicken broth. For those preparing the plant-based version, consciously replace this with an equal amount of flavorful vegetable broth, ensuring the soup remains vibrant, healthy, and mindful of all dietary preferences. Utilizing low-sodium broth empowers you to control the seasoning precisely to your taste.
Kidney Beans: Two 15 oz cans of low-sodium kidney beans, thoroughly rinsed and well-drained. These additions contribute a wonderful texture, essential fiber, and valuable plant-based protein, making the soup even more substantial.
Sweet Corn: Two 15 oz cans of sweet corn, offering delightful bursts of natural sweetness, vibrant color, and a pleasant textural contrast within the soup.
Thickening Agent: 1 tablespoon to ¼ cup arrowroot starch/flour (I personally highly recommend Bob’s Red Mill for its consistent quality and effectiveness). This allows you the flexibility to achieve your desired soup consistency, whether you prefer a lighter, more delicate broth or a heartier, more substantial, stew-like texture.
Avocados: 2 ripe, creamy avocados, absolutely essential for their rich, creamy texture and healthy fats, providing a perfect, cooling counterpoint to the warm, zesty flavors of the soup.

TOPPINGS: The Crowning Glory That Elevates Every Bowl

Lime Wedges: A generous squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving brightens all the flavors, adding an indispensable tangy finish that awakens the palate.
Crispy Tortilla Strips: Provides that delightfully irresistible crunch and the authentic, traditional tortilla soup experience. You can easily purchase them pre-made or effortlessly fry/bake your own at home for extra freshness.
Fresh Cilantro: Finely chopped fresh cilantro adds a burst of vibrant herbaceous aroma and a refreshing, earthy flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
Queso Fresco: As an optional topping, crumbled queso fresco offers a wonderful salty, creamy, and slightly tangy element. For the plant-based version, consider thoughtfully using crumbled tree-line cheese or your favorite high-quality vegan cheese alternative to successfully maintain that delightful texture and flavor profile.
Optional additions: For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider adding thinly sliced radishes for a peppery crunch, a dollop of cooling dairy-free sour cream, or a few pickled jalapeños for an exhilarating, spicy kick!

DIRECTIONS: Crafting Your Ultimate Bowl of Comfort, Step-by-Step

Prepare the Chicken (or Beans): In a large, sturdy skillet, place the chicken breasts along with one 16 oz jar of ZUBI’S salsa and ½ cup of Organic Coco Aminos. This thoughtful marinade will infuse the chicken with incredible depth of flavor and tenderize it beautifully. If you are thoughtfully making the plant-based version, simply skip this step entirely for chicken and ensure your black beans are thoroughly rinsed and drained, poised to be added to the main pot later.
Simmer the Broth Base: Meanwhile, in your favorite large stockpot, bring the chicken broth (or the appropriate vegetable broth for the plant-based version) and the remaining 16 oz jar of ZUBI’S salsa to a gentle, fragrant boil. This crucial step creates the robust, flavorful foundation for your entire soup.
Build the Flavor Profile: Once the broth is gently simmering, carefully add the thinly sliced carrots, sweet corn, and the thoroughly drained kidney beans into the pot. Allow this vibrant mixture to cook gently, giving all the wonderful flavors ample time to meld together beautifully and harmoniously.
Shred and Integrate: When the chicken in the skillet is perfectly cooked through and tender enough to handle comfortably, carefully remove it and effortlessly shred it using your hand mixer – a true kitchen hero and time-saver! Return the shredded chicken to the skillet, allowing it to soak up any remaining cooking liquid, ensuring it’s thoroughly cooked and absorbs all those delicious, infused flavors. Once fully cooked, transfer the shredded chicken (or simply add the pre-drained black beans if preparing the plant-based version) into the large stockpot with the simmering broth and vegetables.
Thicken to Perfection: To achieve your absolute desired soup consistency, meticulously whisk in 1 tablespoon to ¼ cup of arrowroot starch/flour. Begin with a smaller amount and gradually add more, stirring continuously and patiently until the soup reaches your preferred, luscious thickness. This natural thickener ensures a smooth, velvety texture without any unwanted graininess.
Rest and Infuse: Allow the entire soup to sit and gently simmer over a very low flame for approximately 10-15 minutes before serving. This crucial resting period is where all the magnificent flavors deepen, coalesce, and fully meld, creating a truly harmonious and unforgettable taste experience.
Serve with Style: Ladle the steaming, aromatic soup generously into individual bowls. Garnish thoughtfully and generously with crispy tortilla strips, abundant slices of fresh, creamy avocado, a sprinkle of vibrant, fragrant cilantro, and a refreshing lime wedge. For an extra touch of indulgent pleasure, add the optional crumbled queso fresco (or your carefully chosen plant-based alternative).

Embrace the Joy of Homemade: A ZUBI’S Tradition, From Our Farm to Your Table

Cooking at home, especially preparing a nourishing, flavorful, and vibrant soup like this Mexican Tortilla Soup, is far more than just feeding; it’s a profound act of love, a joyful expression of creativity, and a vital practice of self-care. It empowers you to meticulously control the quality of every single ingredient, thoughtfully adapt to diverse dietary needs, and, most importantly, create cherished, lasting memories around the family dinner table. With ZUBI’S All-Natural Salsa proudly at its core, you’re not merely making soup; you’re passionately crafting a meal that is bursting with authentic, vibrant flavor and wholesome, unadulterated goodness. This signature recipe truly embodies the very spirit and ethos of ZUBI’S – fresh, natural, bursting with flavor, and always, always delicious.

I wholeheartedly encourage you to gather your fresh ingredients, put on some truly good music that lifts your spirit, perhaps pour yourself a comforting glass of wine, and fully immerse yourself in the joyful, therapeutic process of making this incredible soup. It’s a perfect, comforting dish for a chilly evening, a hearty, fulfilling lunch, or a festive gathering with your most cherished loved ones. We pour our heart, soul, and unwavering passion into every single jar of ZUBI’S Salsa, and we sincerely hope that you can taste that dedication and love in every single bite of this magnificent tortilla soup. Don’t forget to share your wonderful creations and valuable feedback with us – we absolutely adore hearing from you and seeing your culinary adventures! Happy cooking, and bon appétit!