Sopes

Sopes are thick, handmade corn masa cakes with pinched edges, traditionally pan-fried and topped with beans, meats, lettuce, cheese, and salsa. A staple of Mexican street food, these savory treats are hearty, customizable, and bursting with authentic flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Mexican Flavor – A traditional dish made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
• Versatile Toppings – Top with anything from shredded beef to beans and queso fresco.
• Gluten-Free – Made with masa harina, naturally free of gluten.
• Fun to Make – Shaping and cooking sopes is a hands-on, family-friendly kitchen activity.
• Perfect for Parties – Great for serving buffet-style with different topping options.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Masa harina
• Warm water
• Salt
• Refried beans (black or pinto)
• Cooking oil (vegetable or canola)
• Toppings: shredded lettuce, salsa, crumbled cheese (queso fresco or cotija), sour cream, avocado, cooked meat (like chorizo, shredded chicken, or beef)

Directions

1. Make the Dough – In a bowl, mix masa harina, salt, and warm water until a soft dough forms. Let rest for 5–10 minutes.
2. Shape the Sopes – Divide dough into golf ball-sized portions. Flatten into thick discs, about 1/4-inch thick.
3. Cook on a Griddle – Heat a dry griddle or skillet over medium heat. Cook sopes for 2 minutes per side until lightly browned.
4. Pinch the Edges – While still warm, use your fingers to pinch the edges upward to form a rim.
5. Pan-Fry – In a skillet with oil, fry each sope until crispy and golden on the outside. Drain on paper towels.
6. Add Toppings – Spread refried beans on each sope and top with your choice of meat, lettuce, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and avocado.
7. Serve Warm – Enjoy immediately while they’re crispy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10–12 sopes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian – Stick with beans, cheese, salsa, and avocado for a meatless option.
• Breakfast Sopes – Top with scrambled eggs, chorizo, and cheese.
• Mini Sopes – Make smaller versions for appetizers or party bites.
• Seafood Sopes – Use grilled shrimp or fish with a tangy crema.
• Green Chile Sopes – Add sautéed green chiles or nopales for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooked (but untopped) sopes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a hot skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes until warmed and crisp.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked, un-topped sopes between parchment paper for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in a skillet or oven.

FAQs

What is a sope made of?

Sopes are made from masa harina (corn flour), water, and salt. They’re cooked and shaped into small thick discs with raised edges.

Can I make sopes without frying them?

Yes, you can skip the frying and serve them after cooking on the griddle, though they’ll be softer and less crispy.

What’s the difference between sopes and tortillas?

Sopes are thicker and have raised edges to hold toppings, while tortillas are thin and flat.

Can I use store-bought sopes?

Yes, many Latin markets sell pre-made sopes that can be warmed and topped at home.

How do I keep sopes from drying out?

Cover them with a towel or plastic wrap while preparing others to keep them soft and pliable.

What kind of beans work best?

Refried black or pinto beans are traditional and spread easily on the sope base.

Can I bake sopes instead of frying them?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Brush lightly with oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) until crispy, about 10–15 minutes.

Are sopes gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use masa harina (not regular flour), sopes are naturally gluten-free.

What toppings are most traditional?

Beans, crumbled cheese, lettuce, salsa, and sour cream are classic, with meat added for heartier versions.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, cover and refrigerate the dough for up to a day. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.

Conclusion

Sopes are a classic Mexican dish that brings comfort, flavor, and versatility to your table. Whether you keep it traditional or load them up with creative toppings, sopes are sure to impress. Try making them at home and enjoy this flavorful, satisfying dish anytime!

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