Description
Mexican street food magic unfolds with these delightful sopes, crispy masa cups filled with savory toppings and zesty flavors. Rich layers of refried beans, tender meat, and fresh garnishes create a delectable handheld feast you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour, such as Maseca)
- 1.5 cups warm water (plus more as needed)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Protein and Toppings:
- 1 cup refried beans (black or pinto), warmed
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken, beef, or chorizo
- ¼ cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- ¼ cup Mexican crema or sour cream
Garnishes and Accompaniments:
- ½ cup shredded lettuce or finely chopped cabbage
- ¼ cup diced tomato or pico de gallo
- Salsa (red or green), to taste
- Chopped onion (optional)
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Prepare a smooth, cohesive dough by thoroughly blending masa harina with salt and warm water, ensuring a consistent texture that holds together without crumbling. Adjust moisture level by adding small amounts of water if the mixture appears too dry.
- Carefully portion the dough into uniform balls, then gently press and shape each into delicate, thin circular discs with smooth, even edges approximately three-quarters of an inch wide.
- Activate a griddle or skillet over moderate heat, then carefully place each dough disc onto the surface. Cook methodically, allowing each side to develop a light golden-brown coloration and firm internal structure.
- While the discs remain warm but manageable, delicately pinch and fold the perimeter upward, creating a slightly raised border that will cradle future toppings securely.
- For enhanced texture and flavor, submerge the partially cooked sopes in a shallow pool of sizzling vegetable oil. Fry each side until achieving a crisp, bronzed exterior, then transfer to absorbent paper to eliminate excess oil.
- Layer the foundation with creamy refried beans, then strategically arrange additional components such as seasoned meat, crisp lettuce, vibrant tomatoes, crumbled cheese, drizzled crema, zesty salsa, and any complementary garnishes to complete the culinary composition.
Notes
- Moisture matters most when creating the perfect dough consistency, so keep water nearby to adjust texture if needed.
- Use warm water to help masa harina blend smoothly and create a more pliable, elastic dough that won’t crack during shaping.
- Check dough texture by gently pressing a small piece – it should hold together without crumbling and feel soft like play-dough.
- Work quickly while sopes are warm to pinch edges upward, as cooling makes the dough less flexible and more prone to breaking.
- Customize toppings for dietary needs: use plant-based beans and proteins for vegetarian versions, or swap dairy cheese with vegan alternatives.
- Avoid overworking the dough to prevent tough sopes; mix just until ingredients combine and the texture feels smooth and consistent.
- Preheating the skillet ensures even cooking and helps develop a nice golden-brown exterior without burning the sopes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg