Vegetarian sopes are traditional Mexican dishes consisting of thick, circular-shaped corn dough bases with pinched edges resembling a shallow bowl. These bases are cooked until they’re crispy on the outside while maintaining a soft and doughy texture inside. They typically have a slight thickness, resembling a small, thick tortilla.
Regarding appearance, sopes are usually topped with vegetarian ingredients like beans, cheese, salsa, avocado, lettuce, and other vegetables. These toppings add color and variety to the dish.
Originating from Mexican cuisine, sopes are made by shaping masa (corn dough) into small rounds, creating an indentation in the center to hold the toppings. The bases are then cooked on a griddle or comal until they’re cooked through and slightly crispy.
The toppings and fillings can vary widely, allowing for a versatile range of vegetarian options. They are often served as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, providing a flavorful and satisfying dish for those following a vegetarian diet.
Sopes are celebrated for their combination of textures—the crispy exterior of the base contrasts with the softness of the toppings, creating a delightful eating experience. They are a popular street food and a cherished dish in Mexican cuisine, offering a savory and customizable treat for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Key Takeaways
- Who these sopes appeal to: Vegetarians, flavor enthusiasts, those seeking a festive and satisfying Mexican dish.
- Estimated duration: An enjoyable cooking experience that takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Nutrition facts: A wholesome and flavorful option rich in plant-based goodness.
About this Recipe
Vegetarian Sopes offer a meat-free twist on the traditional dish, providing a canvas for an array of colorful and tasty toppings. This recipe guides you through creating these delightful sopes, ensuring a balance of flavors and textures that will elevate your vegetarian dining experience.
Ingredients
Sopes:
- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Refried Beans:
- 2 cups cooked black beans, drained
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
Toppings:
- Guacamole
- Salsa verde or pico de gallo
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Chopped cilantro
- Sour cream or Mexican crema
- Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese
Instructions
Sopes:
- Prepare Masa Dough:
- In a bowl, combine masa harina, warm water, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough into golf ball-sized portions.
- Shape Sopes:
- Take each portion and roll it into a ball. Flatten the ball to form a thick disc, creating a small well in the center.
- Cook Sopes:
- In a pan over medium heat, cook the sopes for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they develop a light golden color.
- Press down the center with a spoon while cooking to maintain the well shape.
- Finish Cooking:
- Finish cooking the sopes in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10-12 minutes until they are fully cooked and slightly crisp on the edges.
Refried Beans:
- Sauté Beans:
- In a pan, heat vegetable oil. Add cooked black beans, ground cumin, chili powder, and salt.
- Mash the beans while sautéing until they reach a smooth consistency.
- Simmer:
- Allow the refried beans to simmer for 5-7 minutes until they thicken. Set aside.
Toppings:
- Prepare Toppings:
- Dice tomatoes, shred lettuce, chop cilantro, and crumble queso fresco.
Assembling:
- Fill Sopes:
- Spread a layer of refried beans into the well of each sopé.
- Add Toppings:
- Top with guacamole, salsa verde or pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, sour cream or Mexican crema, and crumbled queso fresco.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Arrange the Vegetarian Sopes on a platter and serve immediately. Enjoy the burst of flavors with each delicious bite.
Side Suggestions
- Jalapeño slices for extra heat
- Pickled red onions for tanginess
- Corn or avocado salsa for variety
Storage Options
While sopes are best enjoyed fresh, you can store the individual components separately. Keep the sopes in an airtight container and reheat them in the oven before assembling. Store the toppings and beans in separate containers in the refrigerator.
Ingredient Substitutes
- Masa Harina: Cornmeal can be used as an alternative.
- Black Beans: Pinto beans or kidney beans work well too.
Alternatives to this Dish
Experiment with different plant-based proteins like sautéed mushrooms or seasoned tofu as alternative toppings for a variety of flavors and textures.
Conclusion
Vegetarian Sopes offer a colorful and flavorful journey for your taste buds. With a mix of fresh toppings and seasoned refried beans, these sopes provide a festive and satisfying meal for any occasion. ¡Buen provecho!
