lightened up neiman marcus tortilla soup

one of my favorite places to eat in dallas is the mermaid bar in neiman marcus. it's chic (duh), and i can play at the makeup counters on my way out, but most importantly - they make this soup. if you've been, you know this isn't normal brothy tortilla soup. it's ultra-thick (like the texture of a chowder) because it's thickened with corn tortillas!

this is a much lighter version of their fabulous soup; it is the new year, after all. :) i thought i'd miss some of the richness (they use heavy cream and nacho cheese sauce to make it even thicker), but this is still so hearty and tasty, you won't bat an eye. so that's a win!

lightened up neiman marcus tortilla soup (adapted from neiman marcus cookbook)
serves 4

you'll need:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup diced onion
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon chile powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
dash of cayenne
1/2 cup crushed tomatoes
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup water
5 corn tortillas, torn into small pieces
1/2 cup skim milk (optional - leave out for vegan. the milk adds a little creaminess, but it's not necessary !)
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)

heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. add the onion and bell pepper and sauté until soft, about 4 minutes. stir in the garlic cloves, cumin, salt, chile powder, oregano, and cayenne and sauté for about 2 more minutes. add the tomatoes and chicken broth and water and bring to a boil. turn down the heat to low and add the torn tortilla pieces.

let the soup simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally. add the milk, is using, and simmer for 15 more minutes. check for seasoning and add salt and pepper as needed.

ladle into soup bowls and garnish with cilantro, or whatever you like. now get onto neiman marcus online and buy a lipgloss or two. it's part of the experience, after all.

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