Neiman Marcus' Tortilla Soup Con Queso

Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins Preparation Time: 30 mins Cook Time: 40 mins

Ingredients

• Servings: 6
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups onions, diced
• 1 tablespoon garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon jalapeno chile, seeded and minced
• 2 teaspoons cumin, ground
• 3/4 cup flour, all purpose
• 2 quarts chicken broth or 2 quarts vegetarian broth
• 1 / 2 cups tomato, crushed (canned)
• 1/2 cup salsa, picante -style, mild (to taste)
• 2 cups cream, heavy
• 3 cups cheese, grated monterey jack
• tortilla chips, for garnish (amount to taste) (optional)

Recipe

• 1 place the butter and oil in a large saucepan set over medium heat, add the onions, garlic, jalapeno and cumin; saute about 4 minutes, until onions are translucent.
• 2 turn the heat to low, stir in the flour, cook for a minute longer.
• 3 add the broth (chicken or vegetarian) and stir with a wire wisk until smooth.
• 4 add the tomatoes and salsa, cover the pan, and simmer for about 30 minutes.
• 5 just before serving, add the cream and bring the soup to boiling.
• 6 turn off the heat and add the cheese, stir until it's melted.
• 7 ladle into warm bowls, sprinkle with crushed tortilla chips and garnish with more cheese, if desired.