#azteca soup

[c4d3nz4]

Azteca Soup This soup is made from tomatoes, chipotles, and cilantro that have been cooked in chicken broth and pureed. It is topped with avocado cubes and freshly fried corn tortilla strips.

[rillette]

What are some good soups

[abrillherrera]

Hidalgo se lleva el premio a la mejor sopa azteca que haya probado 🥰🤤

[cocinandoconernesto]

SOPA DE TORTILLA MEXICANA CON POLLO https://youtu.be/l1_VSCdHEvc

recetas faciles y deliciosas. paso a paso. https://bit.ly/3jDlXCF EN LA COCINA CON ERNESTO.

[what-the-ship]

Healing Touch

Here is my contribution to the rare pair that gnaws at my brainstem.

Obligatory sickfic. Tigerghost. TW: vomiting No beta, we die like Danny

Superheroes don’t get sick. Or so they like to tell themselves. Especially one Manuel Pablo Gutierrez O'Brian Equihua Rivera! 

It wouldn’t be so bad if he were at his place in Miracle City. There he could be weak around his family. At Headquarters, that was a different story. There wasn’t a room dedicated to personal use except for Jimmy. It was his dimension after all. Timmy had been pressuring the genius into expanding to allow for at least one room to be used for sleeping. The idea was shot down every time. His brillant idea was taken from some popular space travel series where the lower decks slept in the hallway. Sure they got their own shelf but it was still a hallway at the end of the day. When Manny first saw it he was reminded of catacombs.  

 So when Manny woke up one random Thursday with a pounding headache and a sore throat all he could do was groan. 

“Manny?” Inquired the voice of Timmy somewhere beyond his sight. When Manny went to answer he gave a dry, raspy cough. The cough hurt his stomach so bad he ended up throwing up on the floor. Since there was nothing in his stomach it somehow made it hurt even more. Timmy was now shouting and alarms were going off. Manny felt like crying as the sound drilled into his already-pounding head. 

When he awoke there was something cool pressed against his forehead. It felt amazing. Allowing his more cat-like instincts to take over he nuzzled into the coolness. To his delight, a second soft coolness was placed on his neck. Curiosity winning he opened his eyes to investigate the source of delight. To his shock, he saw a pair of blue eyes staring down at him. Jet black and snow white hair framed the most delightful face. 

“Ángel,” Manny whispered before closing eyes to get some more sleep. The next time he awoke his head was feeling much better. He looked around wondering where he was. It wasn’t his room in his dimension and it certainly wasn’t his shelf in the hallway. 

“Oh you are awake,” Jimmy had entered the room without Manny noticing. He must still be out of it. He was dressed in a hazmat suit and carrying a clipboard. Trotting next to him was his robotic dog Goddard. 

“Therometer.” Commanded the teen genius holding his hand out for Goddard to produce said item in his upturned hand. He then swiped the device across Manny’s forehead. 

“Thirty-seven point four degrees centigrade.” Announced Jimmy as he made a note of it. “Not perfect but acceptable. If you are up for it, I can have some soup and crackers brought down.”

“Soup sounds good.” He really could go for his mom's sopa azteca right now. Manny was left alone again to look around the room. It looked like a barracks complete with metal bunk beds. He was currently on the bottom bunk at the moment. Hoping he could convince the person above him to switch places. He was always more of an up cat.  

“Soups on!” Spongebob sang out as he danced into the room. He then sat down the trey on Manny’s lap. Manny gave a smile and a thanks as he looked over the meal. He frowned a little. It looked a little like caldo de pollo but not. Chicken bits and carrots checked out. The stringy noodles confused him slightly. There wasn’t much of a smell and the broth was far too clear. Not wanting to seem ungrateful he ate a spoonful. 

Bland. He gave a smile and thanked the chef. Spongebob smiled before excusing himself. The second the door shut Manny set the whole tray on the floor in disgust. He could feign sickness for not finishing. Sipping the lukewarm water he debated on trying to get up or get some more sleep. Splitting the difference he located his phone to scroll lazily for a while. The door opened again and Manny instantly geared up his too-sick-to-eat act. To his surprise it was Danny. He was carrying a paper bag in both hands. His soft smile morphed into confusion at the sight of the tray on the floor. 

“Not up for eating?” Danny frowned at the practically untouched now cold soup. Danny set down the bag to use the spoon to poke at the flimsy noodles. “Can’t say I blame you. Maybe you’re up for something different.” 

Danny pulled out a styrofoam bowl with a plastic lid from the bag. He peeled off the lid releasing the smoky scent of pozole. Manny almost spilled the treasure in his excitement. He took a sip straight from the container as Danny fished out a spoon from the paper bag. 

“Gracias guapo.” 

“You’re welcome.”

Timmy entered a second later with a bulging backpack.

 “Congratulations on getting us the Nap Room! I call top bunk.” Declared Timmy throwing his bag on one of the other metal bunk beds. Timothy Turner, ever the opportunist. Like the pre-evolution of a lawyer.  

“Just wish you didn’t have to puke on the floor to get it.” Danny tacked on.

“Anything for my amigos.” Manny flashed a winning smile getting one back from the ghostly hero. “Speaking of hooking amigos up, where can I get some of those ice packs?” 

“Ice packs?” Timmy paused in turning his bed into a nest. He was standing on the ladder as he spread out a small blanket. He had to twist his upper body to look back at the duo.

“Yeah. The ones from earlier. Oh, man. I would wear those things all night. They were so soft and perfect.” Manny stopped praising the ice packs as Danny’s face became redder and redder. 

“Oh no I got you sick. Here,” Manny panicked slightly holding out his half-eaten meal. Danny politely declined as he made an excuse to leave. 

“Oye I mean it. I could sleep with those things all night.” 

“Oh I bet you could,” Timmy smirked. “All. Night. Long.”

“Isn’t it about time you go bother Jimmy?” Danny was now in his defensive posture. 

“Not til two. Besides I am very interested in Manny’s story about how he could spend the night with-” Timmy’s speech was cut off by a carefully placed mini plasma shot right to his backside. It was just enough to cause the teen to give a yelp. 

“Worth it.” Groaned the brunette through clenched teeth.

Danny had already left the room before Manny got his answer. Making a mental reminder he polished off his soup trying to recall the details of his strange dream about the angel.

[purplecelestial-buddy]

What ingredient is a must in your kitchen?

Mine's tomato sauce.

I don't know if that's an "ingredient" per se since it's existance requires a process, but oh well.

It's so freaking versatile. It works with meats and eggs and with bread and you can basically put it on anything. Pastas such as lasagna, canelones, spaghetti also go amazing with it. Sopa azteca? Basically tomato soup.

Rice with tomato sauce is my struggle meal.

[culinaryplating]

Soup Saturday - Sopa de Tortilla/Sopa Azteca

It is said that among numerous ways to enjoy tortillas, one of the best is in this aromatic broth, known as sopa de tortilla. Although little is known about its origins, tortilla soup is a specialty of Mexico City, where this golden chicken broth is enriched with onions, tomatoes, chipotle chiles, epazote, and fried pieces of tortillas.

Thick, nourishing, and rich, the combination of those ingredients is elevated by the contrasts in flavors and textures that best characterize typical Mexican comfort food. It is recommended to garnish the soup with avocado slices or grated cheese, and serve it as a starter or as a meal in itself.

[bagradbadalian]

Recipe for Azteca Soup This soup is made from tomatoes, chipotles, and cilantro that have been cooked in chicken broth and pureed. It is topped with avocado cubes and freshly fried corn tortilla strips. 2 avocados - peeled pitted and diced, 10 corn tortillas cut into 1/2 inch strips, salt to taste, 1.5 cups vegetable oil for frying, 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, 2 large tomatoes, 1 teaspoon salt or to taste, 1 tablespoon chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, 4 cups chicken broth, 1 large onion

[ajoytobeheld]

Food review: North America 2010, volume one, part two

May 14th, 2010

Welcome back to another instalment of us eating our way across America.

28th April Covington, Kentucky.

Covington hadn’t provided us with that much during the day.  A trip across the Ohio river into Cincinnati led to a market research interview in a bagel shop, which included false names and the impracticality of bottomless coffee mugs.

We did find a sports bar in Covington that included a whole variety of rock inspired Mac n’ Cheeses’ including Nirvana, Cream and Green Day.  Now I don’t like Green Day, but I decided to go for their take on Mac n’ Cheese.  I’m not sure if Billie Joe had had any input into it, but if he had his ideas were pretty good.  The Green Day contained spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, this created a better flavour to the Mac n’ Cheese and also a bit more colour.  I find Mac n’ Cheese a bit bland and not the most attractive of meals, but the spinach and the tomato changed this.  It was a nice size, the perfect amount of a quick meal before the show.

29th April, Madison, Wisconsin.

The last time we played Madison, whilst we were annoying the students in their beer hall, I decided to ask some of them where was good to eat.  We were kindly sent to the Top of the World and had an amazing meal.  We decided we would go back there.  Top of the World is a Himalayan restaurant serving dishes from Nepal, Tibet and India.  I had the Goat Curry last time and it was so good, I had it again.  With the meal you were given a dhaal or a salad.  I went for dhaal.  This one was more of a soup, normally it is a lot thicker, but the spices and the spinach created a lightly balanced soup that was refreshing.

The curry came and the meat just fell off the bone.  It was so tender and the spices created an amazing flavour, the spices dancing on my tongue.  Despite it being quite dense, it felt really light, and I felt contented at the end.  I was left sucking the bones to get all the flavours off.  Despite it being one of the more expensive meals of the tour (average plate cost $16), it was definitely worth it.

30th April, Chicago Illinois

No visit to Chicago is complete until you’ve gone to Intelligentsia Coffee; probably my favourite coffee shop in the world.  Unlike Gimme Coffee in New York, it doesn’t have the snobbery and the staff were really helpful in suggesting different beans for my espresso. Me and Tom both came away bearing some beans.

Today’s meal was eaten and then I realised I hadn’t taken a picture.  Sorry fans, my stomach comes first.  I went across the road to Azteca De Oro and got a couple of tacos.  First tacos of the tour and they were great.  It’s hard to muck up a taco and these were satisfying and full of flavour.

After the show I crossed the street again to a hot dog place called Wrigleyville Dogs.  And though it was a great meal at 1am, it wasn’t as good as a Pink’s in L.A. The chilli sauce had made the bun go too soggy and this led to it all spilling out.  Nonetheless, after a show and a massive thunder storm it was satisfying.

1st May, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Some of us ended up in a Tequila bar for dinner called Barrio.  As well as having a massive selection of tequila, which we failed to try, they served Mexican “tapas”, which was basically small mexican dishes mainly tacos.  I had a carnitas taco and a crab taco.  Both appeared well presented with a few extra touches such as fresh coriander.  The crab taco was very good, when were in Mexico we had tuna sashimi tacos and they were amazing.  The crab created a different feel to the taco, the lightness of the crab meat contrasting really well with the lime and the coriander.  Despite being in a fancier place these tacos didn’t cost that much more than anywhere else so it was still excellent value, and being served a man called Machete also helped.

2nd May, Billings, Montana.

So how many of you have been to Billings?  Well, we’ve been there twice.  Both times we’ve been to a restaurant called Walkers, which serves pretty fancy food in a town that doesn’t seem that big.  With a vast beer and wine selection, they have a very appealing menu.  I had the confit of duck which came with Cannellini Beans, pancetta, fried garlic and asparagus.  The duck was so tender and had been cooked really well; the meat falling off the bones.  The beans had been cooked in a creamy sauce.  The fried garlic was very good, and that with a bit of duck meat and the beans lit up my mouth.  The asparagus had been cooked very well, it was still a bit crunchy and the creaminess of the beans really complemented it.  It was pretty expensive but well worth the price.

In part 3, we reach the West coast and hit up some of our favourite food establishments.

[shelfjunkies]

Azteca Soup This soup is made from tomatoes, chipotles, and cilantro that have been cooked in chicken broth and pureed. It is topped with avocado cubes and freshly fried corn tortilla strips.

[thedisneychef]

San Angel Inn's Queso Fundido Recipe: A Delicious Mexican Dish

It’s no secret… San Angel Inn is my favorite place to eat on property. The ambiance, the atmosphere, and the food are among the best in Epcot and Walt Disney World. Plus, with a slow-moving, relaxing ride that never has any line about 30 feet away? More Delicious Recipes You Will Love: - Pumpkin Ginger Soup Recipes – Disney Cruise Lines - Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes – Starring Rolls Cafe - Ribeye Steak With White Truffle Butter – Le Cellier Perfect. There really is nothing better in this whole world than filling up at San Angel then rolling over to the “Gran Fiesta Tour” to take it easy. San Angel Inn has gone through a lot of changes over the years, including an extensive menu overhaul in the mid-to-late 2000’s. While most of the signature dishes made the cut into the new menu (Pollo A Las Rajas and Sopa Azteca), there were a few that were retired or made seasonally available to help bring the restaurant to a more fine dining experience. One of these dishes was the queso fundido. The collective mourning that San Angel Inn fans went into at the loss of this popular dish was undeniable. Pop through forums and blogs at the time it was announced it was retired and it’s not hard to find people begging for how to make this hearty guilty pleasure. I’m happy to say that the folks at San Angel Inn have always been happy to oblige on any recipe when they could, so despite retiring the dish at San Angel Inn, they were happy to share how to make the dip at home. And I wonder if the demand for this dish and the response of people when they saw it was no longer on the menu played a role in queso fundido finding a new home in the neighboring restaurant, La Hacienda de San Angel? I will say, of all the establishments I’ve gotten and reproduced recipes for, the folks at San Angel Inn are in a league of their own when it comes to listening to their customers. I wouldn’t be at all surprised if they brought back this popular dish to their sister restaurant to appease the queso fundido addicts of the world (like myself). When people read this recipe, they’ll be over-the-moon at how ridiculously simple this is to make an appetizer this delicious. For those who’re making it in the style of San Angel Inn, all you need is two ingredients: cheese and chorizo sausage. For those who’re making the updated sister version as featured at La Hacienda de San Angel, you need to add a third ingredient… A dash of poblano pepper. Really, it couldn’t be easier. Cook, broil and serve with your favorite chips or flour tortillas. Keep in mind, this isn’t a dip where you stick your chip in and scoop out the cheese. Think of this as a warm spread, not a traditional dip. You’ll need a spoon to scoop it out and spread it on your delivery food of choice. Now, I think it goes without saying that an appetizer that’s made up of cheese and sausage is not a low calorie, low fat, diet friendly food. And I can’t stress enough, if you don’t really blot the fat out of the chorizo, you’ll end up with a lot of fat rising to the top during the broiling process. Really drain the sausage, then blot it with paper towels. Blot it, blot it, and blot it again. Then blot it again once more, for good measure. If you broil it and there is still a lot of visible fat, just let it cool slightly and blot it gently with a paper towel. I’m still dreaming about how delicious this dish is… And I just made it about 12 hours ago. I am in love with everything about this dish and it makes me so homesick for a riverside table in the shadow of a pyramid. Sigh… San Angel… In addition to the delicious food and recipes, Disney World is also known for its unique dining experiences, such as character dining and themed restaurants. Whether you want to have breakfast with Mickey Mouse, dine in a replica of a sci-fi drive-in theater at Hollywood Studios, or enjoy a meal with an ocean view at the Coral Reef Restaurant in Epcot, there's something for everyone. And with the help of Recipes Today and the How to Make category, you can even recreate some of these magical dining experiences in your own home. So why not start planning your next Disney-inspired meal or dining experience today? Read the full article

[alsjeblieft-zeg]

316 of 2023

Unique Words and Uniquely Spelled Words [True or False]

Created by joybucket

You've purchased something from a mall kiosk. You like the name Rhiannon. You've gone kayaking on a lake. 🛶 You've gone kayaking on a river. 🛶 You own a kayak. 🛶 It's been a long time since you've last kayaked, and you'd love to go again. 🛶 You enjoyed kayaking. 🛶 You like the Japanese name Kaori. You've met someone named Naomi. You enjoy renaissance festivals. You've been to Utah. You've been to Saskatchewan. There is a shop in your town called Serendipity. You've met someone named Saoirse. You have a grandma named Lois. You like avocado toast. 🥑 You'd never heard of avocado toast before until you heard YouTubers say they liked it. You've been to Azerbaijan. 🇦🇿 You've been to Uzbekistan. 🇺🇿 You've been to Guyana. 🇬🇾 You shopped at Aeropostale when you were in high school. You own something from Abercrombie & Fitch. You've walked through Abercrombie & Fitch, but you've never purchased anything from there, because they're too expensive. You've heard Aeropostale pronounced different ways. You've wondered what the correct pronunciation of Aeropostale was. You've wondered why the word "aardvark" has two A's next to each other. (ever heard of Dutch and Afrikaans language, though? Long vowels are normal here) You've not sure if you've ever seen an aardvark in person. Your bra size is bigger than your mom's. You think broccoli tastes good in soup, pasta, and cheesy rice. 🥦 You went to high school with an Ashley, an Ashleigh, and an Ashli. You've been friends with an Emily and an Emilee, Emilie, Emeli, Emile, Emmaleigh, or Emma Leigh. You like the name Brogan for a girl. You feel like your life has consisted of one big catastrophe after another. One of your favorite worship leaders is Charity Gayle. 🎶 You like the name Skylar. You have your bed catawampus in your room. 🛏 [Catawampus= positioned diagonally] You own a lava lamp. You can think of at least one song you like by Christina Aguilera. You've owned an album by Christina Aguilera. 💿 You've made a dreamcatcher. You've driven down an Avondale Road. You own a pair of galaxy print leggings. You like the name Alexa. You don't think you've ever met anyone named Siri. You've been to Papa New Guinea. 🇬🇳 (isn’t it “Papua”, though?) You've been to Guam. 🇬🇺 You've been to Ethiopia. 🇪🇹 You like the name Brynn better than Lynn, because it's unique. You've met someone named Gardenia. You've met someone named Gloria. You like the name Veronica. You're claustrophobic. You've been put under anesthesia for a procedure. You like the names Chloe, Carlotta, and Carmen. You went to school with a Simone. You've read the book of Ecclesiastes. 📖 You've spun a dreidel. You've looked through a kaleidoscope. There is a gazebo in your backyard. You like garbanzo beans. You've been to Kalamazoo, Michigan. You've played a kazoo. You own something made of bamboo. You're feeling bamboozled at the moment. You know the meaning of the word "ecclesia." You know the meaning of the word "acquiescence." You listened to Evanescence as a teenager. (I still do) You like eggnog. You've wondered why so many medications start with a Z. 💊 You take Zofran. 💊 You take Zoloft. 💊 You take Zyrtec. 💊 You remember learning about Count von Zinzendorf in school, and you thought he had a funny name. You've tried escargot. 🐌 You've been to Zimbabwe. 🇿🇼 You've been to Botswana. 🇧🇼 You've been to Guinea-Bissau. 🇬🇼 You've played the oboe. You've met someone with the last name Odorzynski. You like the name Cheyenne. You've met someone named Shariah. You love the name Bianca. You've been to Cincinnati, Ohio. You went to school with a Suzy. You own a pair of Lularoe leggings. You think Lularoe is a scam. You like the name Azteca. You've been to Venezuela. 🇻🇪 You learned Venezuelan history in school. 🇻🇪 You know what a shaman is. You've met someone who claimed to be a shaman. You've played the shofar. You like flamingos. 🦩 You're wearing a fluorescent color right now. You like the smell of potpourri. You've mixed together your own potpourri. You like the name Felicity. You've played with a ouija board. You've seen the aurora borealis. You've been to Australia. 🇦🇺 You've rocked a baby to sleep while singing a lullaby. You've owned a gecko or iguana. 🦎 You've been to Israel. 🇮🇱 You like the name Spencer. You've worn a fedora. You've attended a university as a student. 🏫 You own a varsity jacket. You've seen a real live jaguar in person. 🐆 You've met someone named Tatum. You know someone who pronounces "February" funny. (probably every Dutch person lol) You feel that so far your life has been a complete fiasco. You have asthma. You've watched Jeopardy. You think you'd rather be a contestant on Family Feud than you would be a contestant on Jeopardy. You like zucchini bread. You've tried guava. You'd like to try guava, because you think you'd like it. You were born before the start of the new millennium. You were born in the new millennium. You have to pay mortgage payments on your house. 🏡 You like jacaranda trees. You were born on a Wednesday. You're taking this survey on a Wednesday. You frequently take medicine for nausea. 💊 You've recently eaten a bologna sandwich. 🥪 You like the color fuchsia. You've met someone named Loralei. You've vacationed on an island. 🏝 You've been to Chicago, Illinois. 🏙 You've been to Iowa. You've been to Ohio. You've called someone a nincompoop. You've had pneumonia. You've experienced anaphylaxis. You frequently feel flabbergasted and flummoxed. You've heard the name Aislinn pronounced different ways. You like the name Brigitta. You've recently done something scandalous. You've been an exchange student in a foreign country. You've recently experienced a calamity. You've recently received an epiphany. You've been called a wild hooligan. You've met someone named Esther. You've joined a sorority. You've gone to a Presbyterian church. ⛪️ You've gone to an Episcopalian church. ⛪️ You've tried papaya. Your parents nicknamed the neighbors "the buffoons." You like jalapeños. 🌶 You've worn a sombrero. You've tried kumquat. You've been feeling lackadaisical lately. You spend a lot of time lollygagging. You're often scatterbrained. You've explored the Amazon rainforest. You thought this survey was unique.

[therealcoolfooddude]

(via Sopa Azteca) This vegetable tortilla soup is chunky with veggies and black beans and has a deeply flavoured broth made from roasted and dried chiles. 

[simmerandsauce]

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Chicken tortilla soup, a healthier version of this classic Mexican dish.

Soup is good for the soul they say and I believe it. Chicken tortilla soup is one of the most representative dishes of the Mexican gastronomy and it’s one I’ve loved for ages. Also known as “sopa azteca“, which means “soup of the Aztecs,” the exact origin of this famous soup is unknown, although many assume this dish originated somewhere in central or southern Mexico, where the Aztecs originally…

[bellakitse]

When the world throws you off the track (I have your back)

“I’m just glad my son’s tender heart didn’t cost him this time,” he finishes with a half-smile, looking at TK like he’s waiting for him to agree. Instead, TK frowns at the words and the tone with which they are said.

“What is that supposed to mean?” he questions, feeling his hackles rise as the man gives him a confused look.

+

Gabriel stops by Carlos' place and finds TK, they have a conversation about Carlos' decisions.

Warning* there is a passing line about police brutality 

TK is lounging around on his boyfriend’s couch, resting like he promised he would, while Carlos is at the market when the doorbell rings. He frowns slightly at the sound. He and Carlos aren’t expecting anyone. The team had wanted to stop by, but Carlos, being overly protective after his latest accident and head injury from just two days ago, had pushed them off till the weekend.

He gets up slowly from the nice cocoon Carlos made him before he left, figuring that maybe his boyfriend needed help with the door. Carlos only went to get a few things for dinner, but TK knows how he likes to wander the shops, always coming home with more than he set out to buy.

“Did you buy out the market again, babe,” he asks as he opens the door, coming up short when it’s not his boyfriend struggling with groceries, but instead his boyfriend’s father standing on the other side, eyebrow raised at his greeting. “Mr. Reyes,” he stammers out, caught by surprise at the man’s presence. “Uh, hi?”

The man gives him an amused half-smile in return. “Hello TK, may I come in?”

“Oh!” TK exclaims, feeling himself blush, rushing to answer. “Um, yes, of course. Please come in.”

Gabriel tips his hat at him, taking it off once he steps into the living room, looking around as he stands in the middle of it.

TK fidgets behind him quietly as Gabriel’s gaze pauses on his little nest on the couch before turning to look at him, his lips twitching as he looks at him up and down. TK follows his gaze, his face growing hotter as he remembers that he’s wearing one of Carlos’ old APD shirts and sweats, both a little too big for him.

“Carlos is at the market,” he blurts out, feeling off-center as Gabriel studies him. “He said he was gonna make chicken tortilla soup?”

“Sopa Azteca?” Gabriel questions with a smile. “His mama would make it for him when he wasn’t feeling well as a kid. He better make the tortillas fresh, or Andrea will have words with him if she finds out.”

TK chuckles, feeling some of the tension leaving his body. “Carlos makes pasta from scratch because from a box is a crime – his words. Pretty sure he feels the same about store-bought tortillas.”

Gabriel huffs, his amused expression letting TK know he’s familiar with the argument. “His mama will be proud. Those two take cooking very seriously.”

TK lets out a snort at the understatement. “Oh, I know. I’m not the greatest in the kitchen, and as a result, he doesn’t let me in there without supervision.”

Gabriel lets out a chuckle at his words, helping TK relax further.

“Can I get you something to drink?” he offers, remembering his manners.

“Water, please.”

TK nods, quickly making his way over to the fridge as Gabriel sits on one of Carlos’ love seats.

“So, TK, how are you feeling?”

TK pulls out two bottles of water, turning back towards the living room. He hands Gabriel one of them before sitting across from him, trying to tidy up his blankets. “I’m okay. I had a headache for the first day, and I’m still a little banged up, but mostly I’m fine.”

“I’m glad you’re feeling better,” Gabriel tells him. Silence settles over them after that. TK picks at a loose thread of the blanket as he tries to think of what to speak about. Noticing this, Gabriel puts him out of his misery. “So you’re probably wondering why I’m here?”

“Yes – no,” TK stumbles over his words. “I mean, this is your son’s home. I’m sure Carlos has told you,  you are welcomed any time you want to come over.”

“But you’re surprised I’m still here when he’s not,” Gabriel finishes for him with a grin.

TK gives him a shrug, not bothering to correct the man when he’s right. He is curious.

“I came to tell him that the case against him is officially closed, and he’s been taken off suspension,” Gabriel informs him, pausing when TK lets out a sigh of relief.

“Oh, thank god,” he says with a smile of his own at the good news. “I’m glad that’s settled.”

“Me too,” Gabriel answers before shaking his head softly. “I’m just glad my son’s tender heart didn’t cost him this time,” he finishes with a half-smile, looking at TK like he’s waiting for him to agree. Instead, TK frowns at the words and the tone with which they are said.

“What is that supposed to mean?” he questions, feeling his hackles rise as the man gives him a confused look.

“It means that he’s lucky it worked out in his favor,” Gabriel frowns back at him. “It could have blown up in his face if he had been wrong.”

“But he wasn’t wrong,” TK shoots back tightly, his skin feeling tight with irritation. He recalls Carlos’ face as he told him everything that had gone down between him and his father, his hushed words as he confided that even though his father said he was proud of him in the end, he didn’t entirely feel it was true. He remembers his boyfriend’s hurt face, and it makes him angry.

“TK, this could have gone really badly for him,” Gabriel argues, his frown deepening.

“Yeah,” TK agrees sarcastically. “If he hadn’t trusted his instincts, if he hadn’t led with his kind heart, that man would have blown up. Not could have, would have. I spent time with the psychos that strapped the bomb to that victim; they killed one of their own right in front of us. They would have set that bomb off if Carlos arrested him, killing that poor man, Carlos, and his partner. Carlos’ compassion saved them all, as well as my team and me. And here you are acting like it’s a weakness, a failing of his, when if more cops were like Carlos, then maybe the public wouldn’t have to take to the streets every other week in this country,” he finishes hotly, all but shouting by the end.

He’s breathing hard as he tries to rein in his anger. Looking over at the older man, he finds him looking stunned.

“Well – “ Gabriel clears his throat. “You certainly have strong opinions.”

TK closes his eyes for a moment, taking a long slow breath and then another. “I would apologize,” he starts, his voice calmer even if the rest of him isn’t. “But I’m not sorry,” he says bluntly, pressing his lips together. “Your son is incredible, as a person and as a cop. I’m not saying that because I’m his boyfriend. I work with Carlos. I see how good he is at his job, and a big part of that comes from being one of the most compassionate people I have ever met.”

Gabriel says nothing to that. Instead, he watches him, studying him, and even though TK knows he should probably stop now, he has one more thing to say and can’t hold it back.

“I love your son, Sir,” he says quietly, his heart beating so loud it echos in his ears. “I love him, and I have made it my job to protect and defend him from anything and anyone who would cause him pain, and if that includes you too, so be it.”

Gabriel opens his mouth, and TK braces himself for his response, only for the door to open again as Carlos walks in.

“Babe, I found those tangerines you like on sale,” he says with a smile, stopping short when he sees they’re not alone. “Dad?” he questions, shooting him a look. “Hey, what are you doing here?”

Gabriel looks at him for a moment before standing up and turning towards Carlos. “I came to let you know the investigation’s done and stayed to talk to TK for a bit.”

“Oh, that’s good,” Carlos smiles softly, first at his dad and then over at him. TK tries to return it, but the conversation he’s just finished makes it difficult. Carlos gives him a questioning look, but TK turns his focus back to Gabriel when he clears his throat. 

“Well, I should get going,” he says, focusing on his son. “Your mother is making ribs tonight, and you know I don’t like to be late to those.” 

Carlos nods, giving his father a slight nod, but his attention is still on him.

“TK – ” Gabriel starts, and TK braces himself. “It was...interesting talking to you. You’ve given me a lot to think about.”

Carlos raises an eyebrow at that, the questions clear on his face.

“You boys have a good evening,” Gabriel finishes as he heads for the door. He stops by Carlos and claps his shoulder. “We’ll talk later, mijo.”

“Yes, sir,” Carlos nods, holding the door for his father, closing it behind him. He turns back towards him, brow still raised. “Wanna tell me what happened here?”

“I may have told your dad off?” he says hesitantly, letting out a groan when Carlos’ eyes widen at his words. “Oh my god, I told your dad off,” he repeats, mostly to himself as what he’s just done catches up with him. He drops his head into his hands and lets out another whine. “I can’t believe I did that.”

Carlos moves; TK can hear him walking towards the kitchen, placing the groceries on the counter before making his way over to TK. He feels the couch dip next to him with Carlos’ weight, but he doesn’t look up at him. He only lifts his head when Carlos places a hand on his neck and gives it a comforting squeeze. 

“He’s gonna hate me now and tell you to break up with me,” he tells Carlos, only half-joking, dread quickly spreading through him.

“My dad doesn’t hate anyone. I’m not sure he knows how, and he sure as hell will not hate the man I love,” Carlos answers thoughtfully. “But even if he did, I’m not going to break up with you because my parents want me to. You’re stuck with me, baby.”

TK smiles, letting out a huff of laughter as Carlos smiles back at him.

“Tell me what happened,” he asks softly, taking TK’s hands in his.

TK leans back on the couch, letting out a sigh before he speaks. He starts from the beginning of Gabriel’s visit and how awkward it felt. He’s honest about what he said, giving Carlos’ hand a squeeze when he makes a face at his dad’s words. He bites down on his bottom lip as he recalls his reaction, feeling embarrassed by his outburst but even now not feeling sorry about it. He meant what he said; he’s going to do his best to protect Carlos, even if it means from his own family. Wrapping up, he holds his breath as Carlos stares at him, mouth open and eyes wide.

“You really did that,” he whispers, his disbelief clear; it makes TK cringe.

“Yeah,” he whispers back, remorse slowly starting to set in. So much for Carlos’ parents liking him. “Fuck, Carlos, I’m sorry, I just couldn’t help it. He started talking, and I saw red – “

TK stops explaining. He can’t speak when he basically has a lap full of Carlos. His boyfriend all but crawling into it as he wraps his arms around his shoulders and hugs him for dear life. TK instinctively hugs him back just as hard. His hold tightening when he feels Carlos shake.

They stay like that for a few minutes as TK runs his hands up and down Carlos’ back. When Carlos pulls back to look at him, he’s thankfully not crying, but TK can see the emotion in his big brown eyes.

“Thank you,” he says softly, and TK feels overwhelmed by the love he feels for the man in his arms.

“Anytime,” he answers, his voice rough from his own emotions. He takes in the gratitude and love he sees in Carlos’ expression and swallows hard, feeling overwhelmed by it himself. “I love you, Carlos. I’m always going to have your back no matter what. We’re a team.”

Carlos smiles at him. It’s a little wobbly, but it’s tender, and it’s there. “A pretty damn good one too.”

TK grins, a chuckle passing his lips as the tension inside him dissipates at Carlos’ words. “Yeah, we are.”

 ֎֎֎

 Hours later, when they find themselves once again on the couch after filling up on Carlos’ delicious soup, his phone rings.

TK holds his breath as Carlos shows him the ID that says it’s his mother. He doesn’t understand as Carlos speaks rapid Spanish with her, but he lets out the breath trapped in his lungs when Carlos starts to laugh, his eyes sparkling with amusement as he looks over at him.

“Si, Mami, he’s a firecracker,” he says into the phone, his smile teasing when TK looks at him with wide eyes, realizing he is the topic of conversation. “I’ll ask him and get back to you, okay?” he says to his mother, reaching out to squeeze his hand. “Okay, I’ll call you back–love you too, Mami.”

Carlos hangs up the phone. He doesn’t speak for a moment. Instead, he throws his head back on the couch and lets out a chuckle. TK waits despite being on pins and needles.

“Dad told my mom about your conversation,” he starts, lifting his head to look back at him with a smile that is both surprised and happy. “They’re both impressed with my protective boyfriend, and mom is feeling left out on getting to know you,” Carlos continues with a twinkle in his eye, his smile only growing as TK stares at him. “So she’s inviting us to dinner at the house this weekend if you would like to go.”

“They don’t hate me?” TK can’t help but ask, shocked at the request.

Carlos’ expression goes soft at his question. He leans in, giving him a gentle kiss. “Hate someone who obviously loves their son?” he questions, shaking his head. “No, baby, my dad doesn’t hate you, and my mom sounds like she’s ready to adopt you into the family,” he continues with a quirk of his mouth. “How do you feel about being a Reyes?”

TK blushes at the question. He knows it’s said in jest, but he can’t help the way his heart speeds up at the thought of him sharing Carlos’ last name.

“I wouldn’t be opposed to that,” he answers honestly with a small smile of his own when he hears Carlos’ breath catch. “In the near future,” he finishes with a shrug he pretends is casual.

“In the near future,” Carlos repeats, amazement coloring his words. He looks at him for a moment before shaking his head, the smile on his face bright and beautiful. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

“You do that,” he answers smartly. He gives Carlos a kiss on the cheek before he cuddles back into his side. “We should get a pie from that bakery we like on Winston for dessert.”

“Is that yes to dinner?” Carlos questions into the side of his face.

“Of course,” he answers, his focus on the tv even though his heart is racing. “If I’m going to be a Reyes someday, I should probably make nice with the in-laws.”

He feels Carlos smile against his skin. “Not nervous?”

TK lets out a snort, turning his face to look at his boyfriend. “Scared shitless,” he says with a wry grin, but it softens after a second. “But you’ll be there, and I can handle anything with you by my side.”

Carlos smiles at him. He leans in, pressing his forehead against his. “We’re a team.”

[comparativetarot]

Four of Swords. Art by Kim Thompson, from Divine Your Dinner.

FINDING VALUES

Forming a personal value system takes a lot of effort. You take in piles of information from your surroundings, sift through it, try some values on for size, get uncomfortable, find your boundaries, and finally see which principles are most important to uphold. It’s a rite of passage we go through over and over in life, so it’s best to cozy up to it.

Nothing is more cozy than chicken soup (we asked the entire world, and everyone agreed). Sit down with a bowl of this chicken tortilla soup and reflect on how great it feels to be standing solid in your convictions. The scallions and garlic will clear out any last bits of doubt while lime keeps you true to your word.

MAGICKAL INGREDIENTS: SCALLION, GARLIC, LIME, GUAJILLO CHILE, CILANTRO, ONION, AVOCADO

CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP FOR THE WITCHY SOUL MAIN—SERVES 4 TO 6

This soup is based on the traditional Mexican sopa de Azteca, which, in its most basic form, is a chicken and tomato broth flavored with chiles and topped with fried tortilla strips. If you ever have the chance to go to Mexico and taste an authentic sopa de Azteca, it will change your life.

Canola or peanut oil, for shallow-frying 4 corn tortillas, cut into ¼-inch-wide strips Kosher salt 6 guajillo chiles, stemmed and seeded 6 cups chicken broth, store bought or homemade 1 small bunch cilantro, separated into stems and leaves 1 large white or yellow onion, peeled and quartered 6 garlic cloves, peeled 2 whole peeled tomatoes (from a can), plus 2 tablespoons of the juice Kosher salt, to taste (about 2 teaspoons) 1½ teaspoons ground cumin ¼ cup fresh lime juice 2 teaspoons sugar 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, store-bought or homemade

FOR SERVING 1 avocado, sliced Sliced scallions Sour cream Crumbled queso fresco 1 lime, cut into wedges

1. Pour ½ inch oil into a medium pot and heat over medium-high until it begins to shimmer. Add the tortilla strips and fry until they are lightly browned and crispy, 3 to 4 minutes. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.

2. In a medium skillet, dry-toast the guajillo chiles over medium-high heat until covered with dark brown spots, about 1 minute per side.

3. Fill a pot three-quarters full with water. Add the guajillos and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the chiles are soft, about 30 minutes, submerging them as needed throughout cooking.

4. Meanwhile, in a separate large pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer over medium-high heat. Add the cilantro stems, remove from the heat, cover, and set aside. Chop the cilantro leaves and set aside.

5.Transfer the softened chiles to a blender. Add the onion, garlic, tomatoes, tomato juice, cumin, and 3 tablespoons of the chili cooking water. Puree on high.

6. In a large skillet, cook the chile-tomato puree over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until darkened and reduced to about 1½ cups, about 10 minutes.

7. Remove the cilantro stems from the chicken broth and discard. Whisk the reduced puree, lime juice, and sugar into the broth, then stir in the shredded chicken. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then remove from the heat.

8. Serve family style with the tortilla strips, chopped cilantro leaves, avocado, scallions, sour cream, queso fresco, and lime wedges on the side.