Mom's Tortilla Soup

Although she says she never makes it the same way twice.. Here's the basics... no measurements... no details.. just a means to remember the what and how and OKs to substitute

Ingredients

Homemade Chicken Broth (so easy, so worth it)

Flour

Butter / OK Sub -- Earth balance for lactose intolerant friends

Onion

Red Bell Pepper

Green Bell Pepper

Garlic

Jalapeno (OK to leave out)

Chicken

Canned Black Beans drained

Canned Corn drained

Zucchini

Canned Diced Tomatoes in juice

Canned Rotel Tomatoes and Green Chilies in juice

Cumin

Cayenne Pepper

Chili Powder

Cilantro

De-bone and remove skin from whole roasted chicken.

Make chicken broth using remaining skin and bones. Add coarsely chopped celery, onions, carrots to 4-6 quarts of water. Season broth with salt, pepper, cilantro with stems and a few slices of jalapeno if desired. Boil and reduce for at least 40 minutes. Strain. OK to freeze for later use. Otherwise set Aside.

Sauté bell peppers, onion and garlic in vegetable oil. Set Aside.

Make a rue. gradually add broth then sauteed veggies.

Add black beans, corn, zucchini, chicken, tomatoes and Rotel.

Add spices.

Simmer, covered for at least 30 minutes.

Serve with grated pepper jack, fresh cilantro, lime, and fresh avocado slices.