Spicy Sweet Potato Fiesta: A Flavorful Instant Pot Soup
Craving a meal that's both nutritious and incredibly satisfying? Look no further! This Instant Pot Sweet Potato Tortilla Soup is a flavor explosion that will leave you feeling warm, content, and utterly delighted. The smoky broth, the sweet and tender chunks of sweet potato, and the crunch of homemade tortilla strips all come together to create a symphony of textures and tastes.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot, this soup is ready in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving a quick and healthy meal.
- Layers of Flavor: The combination of fire-roasted tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and a splash of lime creates a complex and irresistible flavor profile that will have you going back for more.
- Healthy and Wholesome: This soup is loaded with vegetables, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a nourishing option that fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle.
- Customizable: Whether you're a fan of extra heat or prefer it mild, this recipe can be easily adjusted to your liking. Add more chipotle for a spicier kick, or omit it altogether for a milder flavor.
The Secret to Amazing Tortilla Strips
Don't be tempted to use store-bought tortilla chips – the secret to taking this soup to the next level is homemade fried tortilla strips! Frying them yourself is easier than you think, and it elevates both the taste and texture of your soup. The crispy, slightly salty strips add that perfect crunch that makes this soup so addictive.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Soup:
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 (28 ounce) can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 canned chipotle peppers in adobo, minced
- 1-2 cups sweet corn, frozen or fresh (optional)
For the Tortilla Strips and Toppings:
- 12 corn tortillas, cut into strips
- Oil for frying
- Avocado, diced
- Cotija or queso fresco cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Soup It Up: Combine all soup ingredients in your Instant Pot. Set it to high pressure for 3 minutes. Perform a quick release.
- Crispy Tortillas: While the soup is cooking, heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry tortilla strips until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.
- Assemble and Enjoy: Stir some of the tortilla strips into the soup and use the remainder for topping. Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with avocado, cheese, cilantro, red onion, and a squeeze of fresh lime.
Tips and Variations
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of chipotle powder to the soup for an extra layer of smoky heat.
- Make It Heartier: Include 1 cup of cooked black beans or shredded chicken to the soup to make it more substantial.
- Stovetop Option: No Instant Pot? Sauté the onion, garlic, and jalapeno in a bit of oil, then add the remaining soup ingredients and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Make it a Freezer Meal Assemble all of the soup ingredients (except the toppings) into a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for a later date.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Sweet Potato Tortilla Soup is a true crowd-pleaser that is perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients will nourish you from the inside out, leaving you feeling satisfied and ready for whatever the day brings. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your Instant Pot, and get ready to experience a taste of pure deliciousness!