*  Exported from  MasterCook II  *

                  TORTILLA SOUP,  LEGENDS RANCHO DELUXE

Recipe By     : Legends Rancho Deluxe by chef Michael Hanrahan
Serving Size  : 8    Preparation Time :0:00
Categories    : Soups

  Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
   1      tablespoon    canola oil
   8      whole         corn tortillas -- cut into 1" strips
   1      cup           onion -- diced
   1 1/2  tablespoons   jalapeno peppers -- seeded
                         -- minced
   5      cloves        garlic -- minced
   1      tablespoon    tomato paste
  42      ounces        canned tomatoes -- undrained
   1      tablespoon    ground cumin
  63      ounces        chicken broth, fat free
   4      whole         corn tortillas -- cut into 1/4" strips
   2      cups          boneless skinless chicken breasts -- cooked
                         -- shredded
   1      cup           avocado -- diced
     1/2  cup           sharp cheddar cheese -- shredded
     1/2  cup           fresh cilantro -- chopped

Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.  Add 1" tortilla 
pieces - cook 2 minutes or until crisp - stirring occasionally.

Add the onion, jalapeno and garlic - saute 3 minutes.

Add tomato paste and tomatoes - bring to a simmer and cook 10 minutes.

Stir in cumn and broth - bring to a boil.  reduce heat to medium and 
simmer - uncovered - 40 minutes or until reduced to 8 cups.

Place half of soup in a blender - process until smooth - pour into a bowl.  
Repeat procedure with remaining soup.  Return pureed soup to pan.  Cook over 
medium-low heat until thoroughly heated.

Arrange tortilla strips in a single layer on a baking sheet.  Bake at 400  
for 7 minutes or until crisp - set aside.

Divide chicken and avocado evenly amoung 8 soup bowls.  Pour soup into each 
bowl and top with cheddar cheese, cilantro and tortilla strips.

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