Fry the tortilla strips in a little oil until crisp. Remove, lay on paper towels to absorb any excess oil, and set aside.
Lightly fry the ancho chili strips in a little oil.
In a food processor, blend the tomatoes, onion, garlic, and fried ancho chili strips, reserving a handful of strips for garnishing, to a smooth purée. Set aside.
Blend the bean purée, half the tortilla strips, and the chicken stock in a food processor. Pour this and the tomato mixture into a saucepan, stir well, season with salt, and simmer with a lid on for about 10 minutes.
Serve hot in individual soup bowls, topped with a spoonful of crème fraîche and accompanied by a plate of cheese cubes, the remaining tortilla and ancho chili strips, and the avocado slices.
Serves: 4 - 6
Reprinted with permission from ©Octopus Publishing Group, Mexican Modern: New Food From Mexico, by Fiona Dunlop, published by Interlink Publishing click for book review
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