Taco Soup
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Taco Soup, especially when the winter chill starts to set in. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was looking for something quick yet fulfilling after a long day. As I chopped the fresh ingredients, the aroma of sautéing onions and garlic filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. With a simple toss of veggies, spices, and chicken into my rice cooker, I could hardly wait to dig in. This Taco Soup became a staple in my home, perfect for cozy nights in or casual gatherings with friends. It’s so easy to make that even the busiest weeknights can feel special when you have this delicious soup simmering away.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 15 mins
15 mins
60 mins
Medium
350 kcal
30 g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
10 g
Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Peeler
What’s Great About This Taco Soup
It’s Incredibly Easy to Make
One of the best things about Taco Soup is how simple it is to throw together. Just chop up some ingredients, throw them in the rice cooker, and let it do the work for you. You can enjoy a hearty meal without needing to stand over the stove for hours.
Healthy Ingredients
This soup is packed with nutritious ingredients such as chicken, black beans, and a medley of vegetables. Each bite is not only delicious but offers a balanced meal that keeps you energized.
Perfect for Leftovers
Cooking a big batch of Taco Soup means you’ll have leftovers for days. It tastes even better the next day, as all the flavors meld together. I love packing it for lunch or having it ready for a quick dinner option.
Customizable to Your Taste
You can easily adjust the ingredients in Taco Soup to suit your family’s tastes. Want more heat? Add extra spices or jalapeños. Prefer a vegetarian version? Swap the chicken for more beans or vegetables. The possibilities are endless!
Ideal for Gatherings
This recipe can serve a crowd, making it a fantastic option for parties or casual get-togethers. Just set out some toppings like sour cream, cheese, and cilantro, and let your guests customize their bowls!
Comfort Food Any Time
No matter the occasion, Taco Soup delivers comfort and satisfaction. Whether it’s a rainy day or a holiday gathering, it warms your heart and fills your belly.
What Goes Into Taco Soup
The ingredients in Taco Soup are what make it truly special. Each component plays a vital role in creating a flavorful blend that’s both satisfying and nutritious. From the protein-packed chicken to the hearty black beans, this soup provides a great balance of flavors and textures that work harmoniously together.
- 1/2 medium onion: This aromatic vegetable adds a savory base to the soup. When sautéed, it releases natural sugars that enhance the overall flavor profile.
- 1 clove garlic: A must-have in any recipe, garlic boosts the soup’s flavor with its robust essence.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing, it provides a healthy fat source that enhances the dish while helping to cook the ingredients evenly.
- 1 pound chicken breast: The heart of this soup, providing protein and a hearty texture; it absorbs all the delicious flavors while cooking.
- 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth: A flavorful base that ties all the ingredients together without being overly salty.
- 14 1/2 ounces diced tomatoes, canned: These add both sweetness and acidity, balancing the richness of the meat and broth.
- 1/2 cup brown rice, raw: This grain adds substance to the soup, making it more filling and nutritious.
- 1 cup corn, canned: Sweet corn brings a burst of flavor and color, making the soup visually appealing.
- 2 medium carrots: Chopped carrots contribute a hint of sweetness and crunch.
- 1/2 cup black beans, canned: A great source of fiber and protein, they also enhance the soup’s heartiness.
How to Assemble Taco Soup
Making Taco Soup is as simple as following a few steps. The beauty of this recipe lies in how easy it is to prepare, thanks to the rice cooker. Just gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the cooking process!
- Start by chopping the onion and garlic. Heat your rice cooker and drizzle in the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and garlic, allowing them to sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes. You want them to become fragrant and translucent, which will form a beautiful flavor base.
- While the onion and garlic are cooking, take your chicken breast and dice it into bite-sized pieces. This will help it cook evenly and integrate into the soup.
- Once the onions are softened and your kitchen is filled with their aroma, add the diced chicken to the cooker. Stir it all together, allowing the chicken to brown slightly, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step adds a depth of flavor through the sautéing process.
- Next, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any bits from the bottom. Then, add the diced tomatoes, brown rice, and drained corn. Don’t forget to drain and rinse the black beans before adding them along with the diced carrots.
- Stir everything together and ensure all ingredients are well combined. It should look colorful and inviting at this point.
- If your rice cooker has a “brown rice” setting, select that. If not, just turn it on for at least 45 minutes to 1 hour. During this time, the flavors will meld beautifully while the rice cooks to perfection.
- While it’s cooking, you can prepare any toppings you’d like to add later, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro.
- After the cooking cycle is complete, give the soup a good stir. It should be thick, hearty, and full of flavor.
- Serve your Taco Soup hot, perhaps accompanied by tortilla chips or a side of cornbread for a truly comforting meal.
Things Worth Knowing
- Adjusting Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth used or add more rice or beans to the mix.
- Flavor Development: Letting the soup sit for a while allows the flavors to deepen. If you’re not in a rush, consider making it a day ahead.
- Topping Ideas: Besides sour cream and cheese, consider adding diced avocado or fresh lime juice for extra brightness.
- Temperature Control: If your soup is too hot, let it cool slightly before serving. It’s always best to serve it warm, not scorching hot.
Pro Tips and Tweaks
Cooking Taco Soup is a breeze, but here are some pro tips to take it to another level. These pointers can help you perfect your technique or even add a twist to the recipe!
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
- Freezing: You can freeze Taco Soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure it is completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder for an extra kick. These can be added while sautéing the onion and garlic.
- Variations: Feel free to swap the chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey for a different protein option.
- Garnishes: Fresh toppings can elevate your soup. Try adding diced jalapeños or pickled onions for a zesty finish.
Pairing Suggestions for Taco Soup
When serving your Taco Soup, consider the following pairing suggestions to create a complete meal:
- Tortilla Chips: Serve a basket of crunchy tortilla chips on the side for dipping and scooping.
- Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread makes an excellent complement to the soup.
- Fresh Salad: A light salad with a citrus dressing can balance the richness of the soup.
- Occasions: This soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, casual gatherings with friends, or even game day parties.
- Drinks: Pair with refreshing drinks like iced tea or agua fresca to keep things light and enjoyable.
- Seasonal Choices: In winter, you might want to add a spicy kick with jalapeños, while in summer, fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can brighten the flavors.
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Taco Soup stands out as a delightful and comforting dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. With its rich flavors and healthy ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings. You won’t regret it!
Taco Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chop an onion and garlic, and put it at the bottom of a HOT rice cooker with some oil to get it to start browning.
- While the rice cooker is heating up the onions and garlic, dice your chicken.
- Add chicken to rice cooker and cook until browned.
- Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, brown rice, and drained corn. Drain and rinse black beans, peel and dice carrots; add to cooker.
- Turn rice cooker on to “brown rice” setting, if yours has one. Otherwise, turn it on for at least 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Notes
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
- Freezing: You can freeze Taco Soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure it is completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder for an extra kick. These can be added while sautéing the onion and garlic.
- Variations: Feel free to swap the chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey for a different protein option.
- Garnishes: Fresh toppings can elevate your soup. Try adding diced jalapeños or pickled onions for a zesty finish.
