Cold Night Delight - Black Bean Tortilla Soup

This time of year there is nothing more satisfying than a warm soup. This tortilla soup is high in fiber and vegetarian. The cumin gives it a rich earthy flavor, it's one of my favorite herbs!  

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons oil (divided)
• 1 medium onion (diced finely)
• 2 large cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 32 ounces vegetable broth
• 15 ounces tomato sauce
• 15 ounces canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup frozen corn (thawed)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon cold water
• 8 corn tortillas (cut in half then into 1/4-inch wide strips)
• Optional: 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
• Optional: 1 avocado (diced)
• Optional: 1/3 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
• Optional: 1/3 cup sour cream

Steps to Make It

1. In a large soup stock pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, frequently stirring, until soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cumin and cook for another minute.
2. Add the vegetable broth, tomato sauce, beans, and corn, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. To thicken your black bean soup, whisk together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Bring the soup back up to a boil, stir in the cornstarch and water mixture, then heat, frequently stirring, until soup thickens, about two minutes.
4. While your black bean soup is cooking on the stove, prepare the corn chips. Pre-heat the oven to 400 F.
5. Place the corn tortilla strips in a large bowl and toss with the remaining 1 tablespoon oil until well coated.
6. Place the tortilla strips on a baking sheet and cook until golden and crispy, about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
7. Serve your tortilla soup in individual bowls topped with baked tortilla chips and optional cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and avocado.