1-Preparation Steps: First, prepare all your ingredients by measuring out the spices and opening the cans. This will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient. If you’re using fresh garlic, mince it finely. If you prefer convenience, garlic powder works just as well in this recipe. Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and break it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Brown the meat thoroughly for the best flavor development, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove excess grease as needed by draining the meat or using a spoon to skim off the fat.

2-Cooking the Soup: Once the meat is browned and drained, add all remaining ingredients to the pot. This includes the spices, crushed tomatoes, green chilies, kidney beans, black beans, corn, and chicken broth. Stir everything together to combine thoroughly and ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the soup. Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld together and the beans to become perfectly tender.

3-Serving Suggestions: Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or spices depending on your preference. Serve hot with your choice of toppings to customize each bowl. Popular options include tortilla chips or Fritos for crunch, shredded cheese for creaminess, chopped green onions for a fresh bite, diced avocado for richness, hot sauce for extra heat, and fresh cilantro for a bright, herbal finish.