Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Southwestern Taco Soup?
Hearty Southwestern Taco Soup is a warming, Mexican-inspired dish featuring ground beef, various beans, and a blend of spices.
Who is the original creator of this recipe?
This recipe originates from Cooking with Paula Deen.
How many people does this taco soup serve?
This recipe makes enough to serve 10 to 12 people.
What type of beef is recommended for this soup?
The recipe calls for 1 pound of ground chuck.
How should the onion be prepared?
Use one large onion and chop it before cooking.
What is the first step in cooking the soup?
The first step is to brown the ground chuck and chopped onion in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Should I drain the fat from the meat?
Yes, ensure you drain any excess fat after the beef is browned and crumbled.
How much water is required for the base?
The recipe requires 4 cups of water.
Which beans are included in this recipe?
The soup includes red kidney beans, pinto beans, and black beans.
Do the beans and corn need to be drained?
Yes, the red kidney beans, pinto beans, corn niblets, and black beans should all be drained before adding them to the pot.
What type of corn is used in this recipe?
One 15 1/4 ounce can of corn niblets is used.
What size can of tomato soup is needed?
You will need one 10 3/4 ounce can of tomato soup.
What provides the southwestern flavor profile?
The flavor comes from diced tomatoes with green chilies, enchilada sauce, and taco seasoning mix.
How much taco seasoning is used?
One 1 1/4 ounce package of taco seasoning mix is required.
Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
Yes, the recipe allows for either a store-bought package or a homemade version.
What specific brand of tomatoes is mentioned?
The recipe suggests using a 10 ounce can of Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies).
How much enchilada sauce is needed?
One 10 ounce can of enchilada sauce is added to the soup.
How much salt is included in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt.
How long should the soup simmer?
After bringing the mixture to a boil, reduce heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour.
Why should the soup be stirred occasionally?
Stirring occasionally while simmering helps to blend the flavors well.
What should I do after the soup has finished simmering?
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary before serving.
What are the recommended garnishes?
The soup is best garnished with shredded cheese and sour cream.
What should be served on the side?
Crunchy tortilla chips are recommended for serving alongside or dipping into the soup.
Is this soup served hot or cold?
The instructions specify that the soup should be served hot.
Is this recipe suitable for family gatherings?
Yes, it is described as a crowd-pleaser and is ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 16 ingredients listed in this recipe.
What kind of pot is best for this recipe?
A large Dutch oven is recommended for preparation.
What size is the can of pinto beans?
The recipe calls for a 15 1/2 ounce can of pinto beans.
What size is the can of black beans?
The recipe uses a 15 ounce can of black beans.
What size is the can of tomato sauce?
One 15 ounce can of tomato sauce is used in the mixture.