Texas Living

Essential National Soup Month Recipes

By M. Elise Giller 1.11.16

There’s a reason January is officially National Soup Month: The chilly weather makes you want to warm up with a big bowl of soup! But if you’re going to slurp some soup, do it in Texas style, with these five Southwestern recipes.

1. Chicken Tortilla Soup

The grande dame of all soups, this one is a staple of any Texan diet. Diced veggies and fire-roasted tomatoes add depth to this shredded chicken soup. Tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese garnishes make it a filling Texas-style wonder.

2. Black Bean Soup

This vegetarian soup is a longtime favorite of Texans and non-Texans alike. Combine sautéed diced carrots, jalapeño, and onions with spices like cumin and chili powder, along with black beans, chicken broth, and fire-roasted tomatoes for a feisty kick. Then top with slices of avocado or a dollop of sour cream for a Texas-twist.

3. Chicken and Vegetable Soup

Upgrade your standard chicken and veggie soup with diced roasted poblano peppers, fresh cilantro, and lime juice for an authentic spicy Southwestern version with plenty of kick.

4. Corn and Potato Soup

Similar to vegetarian chowder, this recipe satisfies on cold winter nights in the Lone Star State. Combine boiled potatoes, corn kernels, chicken broth, onion, lime juice, and Texas-sized chopped jalapeño for a soup that warms your hands as it heats up your taste buds! Top with fresh avocado for added flair!

5. Tomato Soup

For a Southwestern twist on traditional tomato soup, add a mix of pureed roasted red peppers and tomatoes to a base of chicken broth along with cumin, chili powder, cilantro, and lime juice, and serve with quesadillas instead of grilled cheese!

Looking for another way to beat the winter blues? Try one of our twists on classic hot cocoa.