Introduction
Qdoba, a leading fast-casual Mexican restaurant brand, has brought back its fan-favorite Loaded Tortilla Soup for a limited time. With fall here and comfort food on everyone’s mind, this cooler-weather staple allows guests to indulge in a delicious bowl of flavor with their favorite protein and tasty toppings in a crispy tortilla shell. Qdoba’s Loaded Tortilla Soup is also available in a regular cup or bowl and can be made vegetarian.
Why Qdoba tortilla soup is so popular?
Qdoba’s Loaded Tortilla Soup is made with a vegetable broth flavored with roasted tomatoes, peppers, onions, and spices. The soup is customizable, meaning guests can mix and match their favorite protein and toppings on their tortilla soup. Qdoba’s use of fresh ingredients and customizable options has made their Loaded Tortilla Soup a popular item among guests.
According to Katy Velazquez, Senior Executive Chef at Qdoba, the restaurant chain is constantly listening to its guests and their feedback always inspires menu innovations and additions. Qdoba is thrilled to add the Loaded Tortilla Soup back to its menu as a limited-time staple for fall and winter.
In comparison to other soups on Qdoba’s menu, the Loaded Tortilla Soup stands out as it provides comfort food flavors while being customizable. Guests can choose their preferred protein, from grilled chicken to vegetarian, and add toppings such as cilantro, sour cream, and tortilla strips.
The table below shows a comparison of the Loaded Tortilla Soup with two of Qdoba’s other soups, the Chicken Tortilla and Vegetarian Soup.
| Soup | Protein Options | Toppings |
| —————| ————– | —————————–|
| Loaded Tortilla | Grilled Chicken, Steak, Shredded Beef, Pork, Vegetarian | Cilantro, Sour Cream, Cheese, Tortilla Strips |
| Chicken Tortilla| Grilled Chicken, Shredded Chicken | Cilantro, Sour Cream, Cheese, Tortilla Strips |
| Vegetarian Soup | N/A | Cilantro, Sour Cream, Cheese, Tortilla Strips |
In conclusion, Qdoba’s Loaded Tortilla Soup is a popular item among guests due to its use of fresh ingredients and customizable options. The soup allows guests to indulge in comfort food flavors while also being able to personalize their dish. With its limited-time return, Qdoba’s Loaded Tortilla Soup is a must-try for those craving some comfort food this fall and winter.
History of Qdoba Tortilla Soup
Origins of Qdoba restaurant and its most beloved soup
Qdoba is a well-known restaurant chain serving Mexican-style cuisine both in the United States and Canada. Its origins can be traced back to 1995 when Anthony Miller, a Colorado native, and his partner Robert Hauser opened the first Zuma Fresh Mexican Grill in Peabody, Massachusetts. Later, the restaurant changed its name to Z-Teca Mexican Grill in 1997 and was finally renamed Qdoba Mexican Grill in 1999.
The restaurant chain has come a long way since its inception, with over 750 locations in the United States and Canada as of 2023. John Cywinski is the current CEO of Qdoba Restaurant Corporation. With over 16,000 employees working at Qdoba’s various locations, the restaurant chain continues to grow in popularity due to its high-quality food and unique offerings such as its beloved Qdoba tortilla soup.
Qdoba offers a range of menu options, including burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and other Mexican-style food items. Customers are given the option to customize their entrees with a range of different ingredients, prepared right in front of them. The restaurant has also expanded its offerings to include breakfast items, and some locations are open 24 hours on weekends.
One of Qdoba’s most popular dishes is the Qdoba tortilla soup, which is a rich and hearty soup made with chicken, beans, vegetables, and spices. The soup is topped with crispy tortilla strips and is a fan favorite for its delicious flavor and filling qualities.
Qdoba’s tortilla soup is made fresh daily in all of its locations, ensuring that customers receive a high-quality soup every time they visit. The restaurant has also released its recipe to the public, allowing fans of the soup to try making it at home themselves.
In conclusion, Qdoba has come a long way since its origins as a small restaurant in Massachusetts. With its unique customization options, high-quality food offerings, and unique items such as the Qdoba tortilla soup, the restaurant has become a favorite among many. As Qdoba continues to expand, it’s clear that the restaurant chain is here to stay and its beloved tortilla soup will continue to be a customer favorite for years to come.
Ingredients of Qdoba Tortilla Soup
Key ingredients for the perfect Qdoba tortilla soup
Qdoba tortilla soup is a popular dish found in the Qdoba restaurant chain. It’s a rich, hearty soup filled with chicken, beans, vegetables, and spices. The dish can be customized to suit different preferences and tastes, but some key ingredients are necessary to make the perfect Qdoba tortilla soup.
Here are the key ingredients required to make Qdoba tortilla soup:
1. Vegetables
Most of Qdoba tortilla soup’s flavor comes from the vegetables that are added to the soup. One should use onions, poblano peppers, jalapeños, fire-roasted tomato, and crushed tomatoes to make the perfect Qdoba tortilla soup. The onions and peppers will need to be sautéed first before adding them to the soup. The tomatoes give the soup a natural sweetness, which helps balance out the spiciness of the peppers.
2. Broth
The broth is the base of the Qdoba tortilla soup, and it’s essential to use a good quality broth when making the soup. One can use either chicken or vegetable broth, depending on individual preferences. The broth should be simmered for some time to absorb the flavors of the other ingredients.
3. Chicken and Beans
Chicken is an essential ingredient in Qdoba tortilla soup, but it can be left out for a vegetarian version. Shredded chicken is the best option, as it helps absorb the flavors of the broth and spices. The beans add volume to the soup, making it more filling.
4. Spices
To give the soup a touch of spice, one can use cumin and chili powder. These spices add warmth and depth of flavor to the soup. Depending on individual preferences, more or less spice can be added to the soup.
5. Garnish
Lastly, to garnish the soup, one can use monterey jack cheese, crushed tortilla chips, and cilantro, if one is fond of cilantro. These garnishes add texture and an extra layer of flavor to the soup.
In conclusion, the key ingredients to make the perfect Qdoba tortilla soup are vegetables, broth, chicken, beans, spices, and garnishes. When all these ingredients are combined correctly, one can enjoy a rich, hearty, and flavorful soup. The soup is customizable, and people can adjust the spices and ingredients to suit their individual preferences. With this recipe, people can now enjoy the flavors of Qdoba tortilla soup in the comfort of their homes.Equipment Needed for Making Qdoba Tortilla Soup
Essential kitchen equipment for making a delicious soup
Making a copycat Qdoba tortilla soup at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. To ensure that the process goes smoothly, it’s important to have the right equipment on hand. Here are some essential pieces of equipment that you’ll need to make the soup at home:
1. Soup Pot- A large soup pot is a must-have when making tortilla soup. It should be large enough to hold all of the ingredients comfortably.
2. Cutting Board and Sharp Knife- A sharp knife and cutting board are necessary for chopping up vegetables and chicken for the soup. Be sure to use a knife that is comfortable in your hand and has a good grip.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons- When it comes to cooking, accurate measurements are essential. Measuring cups and spoons ensure that you add the right amount of each ingredient to your recipe.
4. Immersion Blender (Optional)- If you prefer a smoother texture for your soup, you may want to invest in an immersion blender. This tool is perfect for blending your soup ingredients together without having to transfer them to a blender.
5. Ladle and Soup Bowls- A ladle and soup bowls are crucial for serving your delicious soup. Make sure to have enough bowls on hand for everyone who wants to try the soup.
These are some of the basic items needed for making Qdoba tortilla soup. However, if you plan to make the soup on a regular basis, there are additional tools that may be beneficial. For example, a food processor can be handy for chopping up vegetables quickly, and a slow cooker can be used to prepare the soup over a longer period of time.
In conclusion, having the right equipment is key to making a delicious copycat Qdoba tortilla soup at home. With the proper tools, you’ll be able to create a soup that is just as satisfying and flavorful as the one served at the restaurant.Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
Preparing the Ingredients
To make a delicious copycat Qdoba tortilla soup, preparation is key. Begin by gathering all of the necessary ingredients, including onion, poblano pepper, garlic, jalapeños, cumin, chili powder, fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, corn tortillas, shredded chicken, and Monterey Jack cheese.
First, mince the onion and garlic and dice the poblano and jalapeño peppers. Keep the vegetables separated, as they will be added to the soup at different times. Cut the corn tortillas into thin strips and set aside.
Cooking the Soup
In a large soup pot, add vegetable oil and heat over medium heat. Once hot, add the onion and poblano pepper and sauté for approximately five minutes. Add the garlic and jalapeño peppers and continue to sauté for an additional two minutes.
Next, add the cumin, chili powder, and fire-roasted tomatoes to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 15 minutes.
Once the soup has simmered for 15 minutes, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it has a smooth consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step.
Add the shredded chicken to the pot and let it cook in the soup for about five minutes or until it is fully heated through.
Serving the Soup
To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and crushed tortilla chips. You can also add additional ingredients, such as chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime, for added flavor.
In Conclusion
Making a copycat Qdoba tortilla soup at home can seem like a daunting task, but with the right equipment and a step-by-step recipe guide, it can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following these instructions and using fresh ingredients, you can create a soup that is just as satisfying and flavorful as the one served at the restaurant. So, get cooking and enjoy a delicious bowl of Qdoba tortilla soup at home!Tips for Making the Best Qdoba Tortilla Soup
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients will make all the difference in the taste of your soup. Use fresh vegetables and herbs, and make sure your chicken is of high quality. The flavor of the soup will be much more vibrant when everything is fresh.
Adjust the Spice Level to Your Taste
The Qdoba tortilla soup recipe includes both poblano and jalapeño peppers, which give it a nice kick. However, if you prefer a milder soup, you can reduce or omit the jalapeño peppers. Conversely, if you like a really spicy soup, you can add more peppers or even try adding a few dashes of hot sauce.
Don’t Skimp on the Spices
The spices in this soup are what give it its unique, delicious flavor. Don’t skimp on the cumin and chili powder, and make sure to use freshly minced garlic. Similarly, make sure the fire-roasted tomatoes you use are of good quality – this will make a big difference in the soup’s overall flavor.
Add Some Avocado
While not traditional, adding some sliced avocado to your Qdoba tortilla soup can really take it to the next level. The creaminess and richness of the avocado pairs perfectly with the spicy, tangy flavors of the soup.
Use Homemade Chicken Broth
If you have the time, making your own chicken broth for the soup will add an extra layer of flavor. Simply simmer chicken bones and vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion together for several hours to create a flavorful broth. If you don’t have the time or desire to make your own broth, you can also use store-bought chicken broth.
Make It a Meal
Qdoba’s tortilla soup makes a great filling lunch or dinner on its own, but if you want to make it into a more substantial meal, consider serving it with some rice on the side. You can also top the soup with additional toppings like sour cream or guacamole to make it even more filling.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to make delicious copycat Qdoba tortilla soup at home that rivals the restaurant’s version. Experiment with different spice levels and ingredients to make it your own, and most importantly, have fun with the process.Serving Suggestions for Qdoba Tortilla Soup
If you’re making a batch of copycat Qdoba tortilla soup at home, there are a few things you can do to elevate the flavor and presentation of the dish. Here are some serving suggestions to consider:
Best garnishes and sides to pair with this delicious soup
Add Some Crunch
One of the classic accompaniments to tortilla soup is, of course, tortilla chips. Try crushing up some chips and using them as a garnish on top of your soup. You can also use larger chips as a dipping tool to scoop up soup. For an extra-special crunch, try adding some toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) on top of the soup as well.
Get Cheesy
While the recipe itself includes the option for Monterey Jack cheese as a topping, you can experiment with other cheeses as well. Queso fresco or cotija cheese would both be great options to add some extra saltiness and creaminess to the soup.
Add Some Heat
If you really love spicy food, consider adding a few slices of fresh jalapeño to your soup as a garnish. You could also try adding some hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to really turn up the heat.
Pair with a Salad
If you’re serving the tortilla soup as part of a larger meal, consider pairing it with a simple green salad. The bright, fresh flavors of the salad will complement the bold flavors of the soup nicely. A salad with avocado, cucumber, and cilantro would be a perfect match for this Mexican-inspired dish.
Serve with Rice
For a heartier meal, serve the tortilla soup with some steamed rice on the side. You can either mix the rice into the soup or simply serve it alongside. Rice will help soak up the soup and add some extra carbs to your meal.
Finish with a Sweet
After all that spice, it’s nice to end the meal with something sweet. Consider serving up some churros for dessert, or make a batch of Mexican wedding cookies to enjoy alongside the soup.
In conclusion, there are plenty of ways to customize and enhance your homemade Qdoba tortilla soup. With a few simple garnishes and sides, you can take this dish from good to great and impress all your dinner guests.Common Questions about Qdoba Tortilla Soup
Answers to frequently asked questions about the recipe and ingredients
If you’re planning to make Qdoba’s famous tortilla soup at home, you might have a few questions about the ingredients and process. Here, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this delicious soup.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make this soup ahead of time. In fact, it’s often even better if you let it sit in the fridge overnight before reheating and serving. Just make sure to cool the soup to room temperature before placing it in the fridge to avoid any bacterial growth.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Simply follow the instructions for sautéing the onions and poblanos in a separate pan before adding them to the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it does not contain any wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. However, if you’re using canned broth, make sure to check the label to ensure it is also gluten-free.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. Simply let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge, then reheat it on the stove over medium heat.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While the recipe calls for Monterey Jack cheese, you can certainly use a different type of cheese if you prefer. Try using cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting the shredded chicken. You can also add extra vegetables like diced zucchini or bell pepper for additional flavor and texture.
By following these tips and answering some common questions, you can confidently make delicious and authentic Qdoba tortilla soup at home. Be sure to experiment with different ingredients and spice levels to make the recipe your own.
How to Make Qdoba Tortilla Soup: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
If you are a fan of Qdoba’s Loaded Tortilla Soup and want to try making it at home, you may have a lot of questions about the ingredients and process. We’ve compiled some of the most common questions and provided answers to help guide you in creating this savory, comforting dish on your own.
Can the Soup Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time! In fact, it’s recommended to let the soup sit in the fridge overnight before reheating and serving. Just be sure to allow the soup to cool to room temperature before placing it in the fridge to avoid bacterial growth.
Can the Soup Be Made in a Slow Cooker?
The soup can certainly be made in a slow cooker. Follow the instructions for sautéing the onions and poblanos in a separate pan before adding them to the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. However, if you’re using canned broth, be sure to check the label to make sure it’s also gluten-free.
Can the Soup Be Frozen?
Yes, the soup can be frozen! Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge, then reheat it on the stove over medium heat.
Can a Different Type of Cheese Be Used?
While the recipe calls for Monterey Jack cheese, you can certainly use a different type of cheese if you prefer. Try cheddar or pepper jack to change up the flavor.
Can the Soup Be Made Vegetarian?
Yes, the soup can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting the shredded chicken. You can also add extra vegetables like diced zucchini or bell pepper for additional flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Summary of the Deliciousness of Qdoba Tortilla Soup and Appreciation for This Recipe
Qdoba’s Loaded Tortilla Soup is a hearty and delicious dish that’s perfect for a cool fall day. With this recipe, you can recreate the savory, spicy flavor of the restaurant’s popular soup in the comfort of your own home. By following these tips and answering some common questions, you can create the perfect bowl of tortilla soup every time. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a warm and satisfying bowl of Qdoba tortilla soup!