Village soup is a hearty, down-to-earth dish that comes from rural
areas. It’s all about using fresh, local ingredients like veggies,
grains, beans, and sometimes meat, depending on where it’s
made. This soup is simple, filling, and packed with flavor. The
recipe changes from place to place, but it usually includes basics
like potatoes, carrots, onions, celery, beans, and herbs. It’s the kind
of meal that feels comforting and good for you, perfect for a cozy
dinner.
Why You’ll Love Taco Soup Frios
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes,
making it ideal for busy schedules.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings and adjust the spice level
to suit your taste.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your
meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: The irresistible flavors of tacos in soup form will
delight kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
To make Taco Soup Frios, you’ll need the following:
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
1 medium onion, diced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
1 packet taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
1 packet ranch dressing mix
3 cups chicken or beef broth
1 tbsp olive oil
Optional Toppings
Shredded cheese
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Diced avocado
Fresh cilantro
Tortilla chips or strips
Sliced jalapeños
Lime wedges
Instructions
Brown the Meat:
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add
ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and
the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
Add Ingredients:
Stir in the taco seasoning and ranch dressing mix. Add black
beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with
green chilies, and broth. Mix well.
Simmer:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer
for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. If you prefer a
spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.
Serve with tortilla chips on the side for scooping.
Tips for the Best Taco Soup Frios
Make It Ahead: Taco Soup Frios tastes even better the next day.
Prepare it ahead of time and reheat for a quick meal.
Slow Cooker Option: Brown the meat and onion, then transfer all
ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for
2-3 hours.
Vegetarian Version: Swap the meat for plant-based crumbles or
simply add more beans and vegetables.
Freezer-Friendly: Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3
months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the
stovetop.
Why It’s Called “Frios”?
The name “Frios” hints at the versatility of this dish. While it’s
typically served hot and comforting, you can enjoy leftovers chilled
or repurposed as a taco filling or dip. The adaptability of this soup
makes it a must-try recipe for any taco enthusiast.
Reheat and Storage
Storage:
Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring
it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions
or a large freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3
months. Be sure to leave some space in the container for
expansion.
Reheating:
Stovetop: Place the soup in a pot and heat over medium heat,
stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of broth
or water if it thickened during storage.
Microwave: Transfer a portion of the soup to a microwave-safe
bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until fully
heated.
Frozen Soup: If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the
refrigerator before reheating using the stovetop or microwave
methods. Alternatively, you can reheat directly from frozen on the
stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles
or increase the quantity of beans and vegetables for a hearty
vegetarian version.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Cool the soup completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in individual portions for up to 3 months.
How can I make the soup spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot
sauce to increase the heat level.
Can I use different beans?
Yes, feel free to use pinto beans, white beans, or any combination
of your favorite beans.
What toppings go best with Taco Soup Frios?
Popular choices include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, tortilla chips, and lime wedges.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, after browning the meat and onion, transfer everything to a
slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
Conclusion
Taco Soup Frios is the ultimate fusion of taco night and cozy soup
vibes. With its rich, zesty flavors and endless topping possibilities,
it’s a dish that brings people together around the table. Whether
you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe
is a winner every time.