Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Taco Chili Soup Delight?
Hearty Taco Chili Soup Delight is a chunky, savory meal that combines the ingredients of a tacoโlike ground beef, beans, and taco seasoningโinto a warm, comforting soup.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings, making it perfect for large families or gatherings.
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner version of the soup.
What kinds of beans are included in this soup?
The recipe calls for three types of beans: pinto beans, black beans, and kidney beans.
Do I need to drain the canned beans and tomatoes?
No, you should add the canned tomatoes, pinto beans, black beans, kidney beans, and corn undrained to provide extra flavor and liquid.
How long does it take to cook the soup?
After browning the meat and onions, the soup needs to simmer for 30 to 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
What is white shoepeg corn?
White shoepeg corn is a variety of corn known for its small, sweet, white kernels that maintain a crisp texture in soups.
Is this taco chili soup spicy?
The soup has a mild to medium kick depending on the specific taco seasoning and Rotel tomatoes used, but it is generally considered family-friendly.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, omit the ground beef and replace it with a meat substitute or extra cans of beans.
What are the recommended toppings for this dish?
The recipe suggests topping each bowl with finely shredded taco cheese and crushed tortilla chips.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Can this soup be frozen?
Yes, this soup freezes very well. Store it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 210 calories.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If the consistency is too thick for your preference, you can add 1 cup of water or beef broth to thin it out.
What is Rotel?
Rotel is a popular brand of canned diced tomatoes and green chilies. You can use any brand of diced tomatoes with chilies as a substitute.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the beef and onions first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
How many envelopes of taco seasoning are used?
This recipe requires 2 envelopes of dry taco seasoning mix.
Why is ranch dressing mix added to the soup?
The dry ranch dressing mix adds a unique tangy and savory flavor profile that complements the taco spices.
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned shoepeg corn?
Yes, fresh corn or standard frozen corn can be used if shoepeg corn is unavailable.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe can be gluten-free if you ensure your taco seasoning and ranch dressing mix brands are certified gluten-free.
What size onion should I use?
The recipe recommends using one large onion, chopped.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, jalapeรฑos, or even zucchini would be great additions to this hearty soup.
How do I reheat the soup?
Reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until steaming hot.
What type of cheese is best for topping?
A finely shredded taco cheese blend or a Mexican four-cheese blend works best.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, the flavors actually improve as they sit, making it an excellent meal prep option for the week.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but you must soak and fully cook the dried beans before adding them to this specific recipe.
What is the protein content?
This soup is high in protein, providing 23g per serving.
Can I use more than 1 cup of water?
Yes, you can adjust the water amount to reach your specific desired soup consistency.
What size pot is recommended?
A large stockpot or a 6-quart Dutch oven is recommended to accommodate the large volume of ingredients.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, the recipe doubles easily as long as you have a large enough pot to hold 24 servings.