Why the Turkey Tortilla Soup Is Great For Burning Fat
When you’re looking for a delicious way to support your weight loss goals, Turkey Tortilla Soup stands out as a fantastic option.
It’s packed with lean protein from turkey, which keeps you feeling full longer and helps maintain muscle mass while you shed pounds.
The soup’s loaded with veggies, boosting fiber content that aids digestion and promotes satiety.
Plus, the spices like cumin and paprika not only add flavor but can also rev up your metabolism.
With each bowl, you get a satisfying meal that’s hearty without excess calories, making it an excellent choice for anyone focused on burning fat.
Ingredients of Turkey Tortilla Soup
When it comes to making a warm and cozy meal, Turkey Tortilla Soup has a special place in my heart. Not only is it comforting, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of turkey, beans, and fresh veggies creates a hearty soup that will leave you feeling satisfied.
Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover turkey, which is a win in my book. So, let’s explore the ingredients you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish!
Here’s what you’ll gather for your Turkey Tortilla Soup:
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 (48 ounce) carton reduced sodium chicken broth
- 1 carrot, sliced thinly
- 3 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 celery rib, sliced
- 1/2 bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked turkey, cubed
- 1 (15 1/2 ounce) can white kidney beans, rinsed and drained
Now, when it comes to these ingredients, there are a few things to reflect on. First off, don’t be shy about customizing the veggies to your liking—zucchini, corn, or even some diced tomatoes could be a great addition.
And if you’re not a fan of spice, you can adjust the red pepper flakes or leave them out altogether. Also, the type of salsa verde you choose can greatly impact the flavor; some are milder while others pack a punch.
So, be sure to pick one that suits your taste buds. Finally, if you want a bit of a creamier texture, a dollop of sour cream on top before serving can make all the difference.
Now that you’ve got your ingredients sorted, get ready to make some magic happen in the kitchen!
How to Make Turkey Tortilla Soup
Alright, let’s plunge into making that delicious Turkey Tortilla Soup! First things first, grab your trusty pot and pour in 2 tablespoons of cooking oil. Get that oil nice and hot over medium heat. You want it sizzling, but let’s not start a dance party just yet—there’s work to be done.
Once the oil is ready, toss in your sliced 1/2 onion, 1/2 bell pepper, 1 celery rib, and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic. Give it a good stir and sauté these beauties until they’re just tender, which usually takes about 5 minutes. They should be fragrant and colorful, making your kitchen smell like a warm hug.
Now, here comes the fun part. Sprinkle in 3 teaspoons of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to spice things up—literally. Mix those spices into the sautéed veggies and let them mingle for a minute.
Then, add in your 1 cup of salsa verde. Oh, the joy of watching those flavors blend together. After that, stir in 2 cups of cubed cooked turkey and a 15 1/2 ounce can of white kidney beans that you’ve rinsed and drained. It’s like a reunion of flavors in your pot.
Now, it’s time to bring the party to a boil. Carefully pour in your 48-ounce carton of reduced sodium chicken broth, and let it all bubble away for about 10-15 minutes. This is where the magic happens, and your kitchen will smell incredible.
Once the soup is nicely heated through, feel free to serve it up with some fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, a squeeze of lime juice, and those crunchy tortilla strips that you’ve been eyeing. It’s like the cherry on top of a sundae, but way better.
Just imagine cozying up with a bowl of this soup, feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. Trust me, this Turkey Tortilla Soup is going to be a hit, whether you’re using up leftovers or just looking to warm your soul on a chilly day. Happy cooking!
Turkey Tortilla Soup Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to enjoy Turkey Tortilla Soup while sticking to a low-carb diet, there are some easy substitutions and variations you can make without sacrificing flavor.
First, swap out white kidney beans for diced zucchini or cauliflower for added texture. You can also use a low-carb tortilla or skip the tortilla strips altogether, opting for crushed pork rinds instead for a crispy topping.
Instead of chicken broth, try using homemade bone broth for extra nutrients.
Ultimately, feel free to add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers to boost the nutrition and keep the soup hearty and satisfying.
What to Serve with Turkey Tortilla Soup
To complement the rich flavors of Turkey Tortilla Soup, I love serving it with a side of crunchy tortilla chips or fresh avocado slices. They add the perfect texture contrast and creaminess.
Sometimes, I’ll throw in a light salad with lime vinaigrette for a rejuvenating balance. For a heartier option, I enjoy quesadillas filled with cheese and veggies.
If I’m feeling festive, a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro on top of the soup really elevate it.
Pairing it with a chilled glass of limeade or iced tea rounds out the meal beautifully!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
While savoring the deliciousness of Turkey Tortilla Soup, I often look for ways to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor. One simple tip is to use less cooking oil; I often sauté vegetables in a non-stick pan or use vegetable broth instead.
I also swap regular sour cream for Greek yogurt, which adds creaminess with fewer calories. Additionally, I skip the tortilla strips or use baked ones to cut down on fat.
Finally, loading up on veggies like zucchini or spinach not only adds nutrients but also fills me up without adding many calories. Enjoying a lighter soup is completely possible!