Spicy Tortilla Soup

Maria Luisa's Spicy Tortilla Soup

1-10oz. can Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies **

1 lb. Ground Beef

1 Medium Onion, Chopped

4 -15oz. cans Chicken Broth

1-14.5oz. can Creamed Corn

8oz. Deluxe American Cheese, grated

2 tsp. Ground Cumin

2 tsp. Salt

2 tsp. Black Pepper

2 Garlic Cloves, minced

1/3 cup Corn Starch

1/4 cup Water

12 Corn Tortillas

2 Avocados, cut into small pieces

In large saucepan, dutch oven, combine broth, Tomatoes & Green Chilies, corn, cumin, salt, pepper, garlic, and cheese. Bring to a boil.

In separate pan, brown ground beef with onion. Drain

In small bowl, mix corn starch and water until corn starch is completely dissolved. Gradually add to boiling soup, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for approx. 10 minutes.Stir in ground beef mixture and 6 tortillas that have been cut into small strips. Cook approx. 5 minutes to blend flavors.

In a separate skillet, heat a small amount of cooking oil. Add the remaining 6 tortillas (cut into small strips). Cook until crisp. Drain on paper towels.

Ladle soup into individual bowls. Garnish with fried tortilla strips and avocado.

** If extra spicy taste is desired, add one additional can of Tomatoes & Green Chilies when cooking soup.