Chicken Tortilla Soup

This is one of my favorite soups, and very simple.

1 cup chopped onion
3/4 c finely chopped carrot
1 clove garlic
6 ounces tortilla chips
3 cans chicken broth
2 cups water
1 cup salsa
1 can tomato paste
1 cup black beans (opt)
1 cup frozen corn (opt.)
1 cup shredded extra sharp cheddar

Bring a little broth to a boil to cook onions and carrots.  Add the rest of the ingredients.  Boil and reduce to simmer for 5 minutes.