Imagine a steaming bowl of Brussels Sprouts Taco Soup, where vibrant green Brussels sprouts float amidst a colorful sea of black beans and golden corn kernels.
The rich aroma of cumin and smoked paprika fills the air, wrapping you in a comforting embrace that promises warmth and satisfaction.
This dish has a special place in my heart, as it effortlessly combines health and flavor, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or leisurely Sunday suppers. I vividly recall a hectic weekday when this soup saved the day, providing my family with a hearty and nourishing meal without the fuss.
Its simplicity and depth of flavor make it a cherished recipe in our home. Ready to bring this comforting dish to your table? Let’s cook!
Why You’ll Love It
- Delivers bold flavor with a mix of spices and fresh ingredients.
- Incorporates healthy Brussels sprouts for added nutrition and texture.
- Uses pantry staples like black beans and corn for convenience.
- Quick and easy to prepare, ready in just 45 minutes.
- Freezes beautifully, perfect for meal prepping and leftovers.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey — opt for lean turkey for a healthier choice.
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved — roasting enhances flavor.
- 1 onion, diced — use a sweet onion for milder taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced — fresh garlic adds depth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil — extra virgin for rich flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin — provides earthy warmth.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder — adjust for desired spice level.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika — adds smoky depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt — or to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper — freshly ground for best aroma.
- 4 cups chicken broth — low sodium for controlled salt levels.
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed — verify they’re well-drained.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes — fire-roasted for extra flavor.
- 1 cup corn kernels — fresh or frozen.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice — freshly squeezed for brightness.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped — optional garnish for freshness.
Step-by-Step Method
Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until they’re softened and fragrant, usually taking about 3-4 minutes.
Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pot. This step builds the flavor base for the soup.
Brown the Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the pot with the sautéed aromatics. Cook the turkey until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
This should take around 5-7 minutes. Verify there are no pink bits remaining in the turkey for a safe and flavorful result.
Add the Vegetables & Spices
Stir in the halved Brussels sprouts, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes. This allows the Brussels sprouts to begin softening and the spices to release their flavors, enhancing the depth of the soup.
Incorporate the Broth & Beans
Pour in the chicken broth, black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn kernels. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. This step integrates all the components and starts the simmering process.
Simmer the Soup
Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the soup cook for 20 minutes.
This allows the flavors to meld together and the Brussels sprouts to become tender. Stir occasionally to prevent any ingredients from settling at the bottom of the pot.
Finish with Lime & Cilantro
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the lime juice.
Let the soup rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to develop further. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro.
The lime juice adds a bright finish, while the cilantro provides a fresh, herby note.
Ingredient Swaps
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground turkey with plant-based crumbles or additional beans like kidney or chickpeas.
- If Brussels sprouts are unavailable, you can use chopped kale or shredded cabbage as an alternative.
- Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth to make the dish vegetarian-friendly.
- Use canned diced tomatoes with green chilies for an extra kick of spice.
- For a dairy-free topping, replace shredded cheese with nutritional yeast or a dollop of dairy-free sour cream.
You Must Know
- Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, make sure your ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika are fresh. Spices lose potency over time, so using fresh ones will enhance the taste of your Brussels Sprouts Taco Soup.
- Let Beans Rest 10 Min: After draining and rinsing the black beans, let them rest for about 10 minutes before adding them to the soup. This allows any excess water to drain off, preventing it from diluting the soup’s flavor.
- Roast Brussels Sprouts: To add a smoky depth to your soup, consider roasting the Brussels sprouts before adding them to the pot. This extra step can enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to tweak the amount of chili powder and smoked paprika to suit your personal spice preference. For a milder soup, reduce these spices, or add more for a spicier kick.
- Garnish Creatively: While fresh cilantro is a traditional garnish, consider adding avocado slices or shredded cheese for extra richness and flavor. These toppings can complement the soup’s ingredients beautifully.
Serving Tips
- Serve with a side of warm tortilla chips for added crunch.
- Top with diced avocado for creaminess and extra flavor.
- Garnish with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream for richness.
- Pair with a light Mexican beer or a revitalizing lime soda.
- Serve in rustic bowls for a cozy, home-style presentation.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Brussels Sprouts Taco Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
For make-ahead convenience, it freezes well for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or microwave for a quick meal.
Reheating
To gently reheat Brussels Sprouts Taco Soup, use the microwave or stovetop.
For the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring frequently.
On the stovetop, warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Culinary Traditions and Adaptations
As you savor the comforting warmth of the Brussels Sprouts Taco Soup, consider how this dish embodies a delightful blend of culinary traditions and creative adaptations.
It brings together the spicy, robust flavors of Mexican cuisine with the unexpected twist of Brussels sprouts.
Ground turkey offers a lean, modern take on traditional beef, creating a hearty yet health-conscious meal. I love how the spices like cumin and chili powder add layers of warmth, while lime juice provides a revitalizing tang.
Cooking is an art, and this soup is a canvas where you can express creativity. Whether you choose to roast the Brussels sprouts for added depth or adjust the spices to suit your palate, this dish invites personal touch and innovation.
Final Thoughts
Give this Brussels Sprouts Taco Soup a try for a delicious twist on classic taco flavors!
Feel free to tweak the recipe by roasting the Brussels sprouts for added depth or topping with your favorite fixings like avocado or shredded cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Ground Turkey?
Absolutely, you can swap ground beef for turkey! I find it adds a richer flavor to the soup. Just remember, beef might release more fat, so you may want to drain it before adding other ingredients. Enjoy!
How Can I Make the Soup Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, I’d swap the ground turkey for more beans like chickpeas or lentils. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. This way, it stays hearty and flavorful. Enjoy!
What Are Some Suitable Side Dishes for This Soup?
I’d recommend serving a fresh avocado salad or warm cornbread alongside your soup. The creamy and crisp textures elevate the meal, while the cornbread’s slight sweetness complements the savory notes beautifully. Enjoy your cozy, flavorful feast!
Is It Possible to Freeze This Soup for Later Use?
Yes, you can freeze this delicious soup for later! I often portion it into airtight containers. When ready to eat, I simply defrost and reheat, keeping the flavors intact and the texture satisfying. Enjoy!
Can I Substitute Fresh Tomatoes for Canned Diced Tomatoes?
Absolutely, you can substitute fresh tomatoes for canned ones. Just dice them up; you’ll need about 1.5 cups. Fresh tomatoes add a vibrant flavor, enhancing the soup’s freshness. I love the garden-fresh touch they bring!
Brussels Sprouts Taco Soup with Ground Turkey
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Knife
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 Measuring spoon
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 cup Brussels sprouts halved
- 1 onion diced
- 2 clove garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cup chicken broth
- 1 can black beans 15 ounces, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 ounces
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
- Add the ground turkey to the pot and cook until browned.
- Stir in the Brussels sprouts, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, and cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn kernels.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat, stir in lime juice, and let the soup rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Notes
