Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Directions:

1. In a large pot, heat the oil over moderately high heat. Add half the tortilla strips and cook, stirring, until they are a pale golden color. Remove and drain on paper towels. Repeat with the remaining tortilla strips.
2. Reduce the heat to moderately low and add the onion, garlic and spices; cook, stirring for 5 minutes. Add the broth, tomatoes, bay leaves, salt, cilantro and 1/3 of the tortilla strips. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 30 minutes, remove the bay leaves.
3. Add the chicken and bring the soup back to a simmer and cook for 5-6 more minutes.
4. Before serving add the remaining tortilla strips. Serve with garnishes of choice.