Williams-Sonoma Tortilla Soup

Ingredients

I didn't have any ancho chilies...also added a chayote squash, and it was hot.  I think if I want my two youngest to eat it I would leave out one more chile.

5 dried ancho chilies, soaked in boiling water,

•  drained, seeded and chopped
• 4 fresh Anaheim chilies, seeded and chopped
• 3 cups chopped peeled tomatoes
• 1 large white onion, diced
• 7 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 Tbs. canola oil
• 6 cups chicken stock
• 2 cups water
• 1 1⁄2 lb. cooked chicken, cut into 1⁄2-inch dice
• 2⁄3 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus leaves for
   garnish
• Vegetable oil for deep-frying
• 6 corn tortillas, cut into strips 2 inches long
• 6 oz. crumbled queso fresco or shredded jack
   cheese
• 1 avocado, pitted, peeled and sliced

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine the ancho and Anaheim chilies, the tomatoes, onion and garlic. Working in batches, coarsely puree in a blender. Transfer to another bowl.

In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, warm the canola oil until almost smoking. Add the chili mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes. Stir in the stock and water. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes. Stir in the chicken and chopped cilantro.

Meanwhile, in a deep fryer, pour in vegetable oil and heat to 375°F according to the manufacturer's instructions. Working in batches, fry the tortilla strips until crisp, about 2 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to paper towels to drain.

Ladle the soup into warmed bowls. Garnish with the tortilla strips, cilantro leaves, cheese and avocado slices and serve immediately. Serves 6.