🔥🌶️ Spicy Chile Relleno Soup for Cozy Nights: A Flavorful and Comforting Chile Relleno Soup Recipe
1. Introduction
When the weather turns chilly and you crave something warm, satisfying, and packed with bold flavors, Chile Relleno Soup is the perfect solution. This spicy soup combines the smoky heat of chilies with creamy, cheesy goodness to create a filling dish that will keep you cozy and satisfied. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or simply love hearty soups, this recipe offers an irresistible experience that bursts with flavor in every spoonful.
2. Ingredients for Your Chile Relleno Soup
- 4 large poblano or Anaheim chilies, roasted and peeled
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Spicy Chile Relleno Soup
Roast and Prepare the Chilies
Begin by roasting the chilies over an open flame or under a broiler until the skins are blackened and blistered. Place them in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap to steam for about 15 minutes. Once steamed, peel the chilies and remove seeds, then chop into strips.
Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Build the Soup Base
Add cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the sautéed aromatics. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the roasted chili strips to the pot and cook for 10 minutes for flavors to meld.
Make It Creamy and Cheesy
Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and smooth. For a creamier texture, swirl in sour cream or Greek yogurt, stirring gently. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve Your Chile Relleno Soup
Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy with warm bread or crisp tortilla chips. This spicy and hearty soup pairs wonderfully with dishes like Tzatziki Rice Bake or One-Pan Meat and Potato Skillet.
4. Tips for Perfect Chile Relleno Soup
- Roasting chilies enhances their smoky flavor; you can also use canned roasted chilies for convenience.
- For a vegan version, substitute cheese with plant-based cheese and sour cream with coconut yogurt.
- If you prefer milder soup, remove the seeds from the chilies before cooking.
5. How to Store Chile Relleno Soup
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. The soup may thicken upon standing; stir in a little extra broth to loosen before serving again.
6. Serving Suggestions for Your Spicy Chile Relleno Soup
This chili relleno soup is fantastic served with warm tortillas, crusty bread, or crunchy tortilla chips. For added flavor, top with extra shredded cheese and fresh cilantro. It pairs well with side salads or a light Mexican-style rice dish.
7. Frequently Asked Questions about Chile Relleno Soup
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and replace cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives to create a vegan version. The smoky flavor from roasted chilies remains a highlight.
How spicy is this soup?
The spiciness depends on the chilies used and whether you remove the seeds. Adjust the heat level by choosing milder or spicier chilies based on your preference.
How long does it take to prepare?
The entire process takes approximately 40-45 minutes, including roasting, simmering, and assembly, making it a quick yet flavorful weeknight dinner.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Perfect for chopping all your ingredients efficiently and safely.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — Keeps your soup at the ideal temperature for serving or storage.
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — Optional for slow simmering and making large batches.
Investing in good kitchen tools will simplify the cooking process and enhance your overall experience creating this delicious Chile Relleno Soup.
9. Conclusion
Enjoying a warm bowl of Chile Relleno Soup is the perfect way to kick back on cozy nights. Its smoky, spicy flavor combined with creamy cheese creates a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup promises bold flavors and hearty textures in every spoonful. Give this recipe a try and savor the taste of authentic chili relleno in a warming soup form!
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Spicy Chile Relleno Soup for Cozy Nights
A hearty and spicy Mexican-inspired soup featuring roasted chilies in a creamy broth topped with melted cheese and fresh herbs, perfect for warming up on chilly evenings
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large poblano chilies, roasted and peeled
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (queso fresco or Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for roasting and sautéing
Instructions
- Roast the poblano chilies over an open flame or under a broiler until charred, then peel and remove seeds.
- In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onions and garlic until translucent.
- Add the roasted chilies and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth or leave it chunky if preferred.
- Stir in shredded cheese until melted and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, lime slices, and additional cheese if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute roasted poblano chilies with Anaheim or Hatch chilies for different flavor profiles.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Roasting, Sautéing, Blending, Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 220 Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg