Sopes

Discover the delightful flavors of Sopes, a traditional Mexican dish that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Mexico. Pronounced as “SOH-pehs,” this delectable treat combines the rich flavors of masa harina, shredded chicken, refried beans, and a medley of toppings to create a satisfying and mouthwatering experience. Easily accessible ingredients can be found in the ethnic section of larger local supermarkets, making it convenient to recreate the authentic taste of Sopes in your own kitchen.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups masa harina
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1-⅓ cups warm water
• 1-½ cups shredded cooked chicken breast
• 1 cup salsa, divided
• ¼ cup shortening
• 1 cup refried beans
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• ½ cup crumbled queso fresco

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a small bowl, combine masa harina and salt. Stir in warm water and knead the mixture until it forms a smooth ball. Divide the dough into 16 portions, shaping each into a ball and covering them with plastic wrap.
2. Working between two sheets of plastic wrap, press four balls into 3½-inch circles. Cook the dough circles on an ungreased griddle over medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly set. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Quickly pinch the edges of the circles to form a ½-inch rim, then return them to the griddle to cook for 2 more minutes until the bottoms are lightly browned. Transfer the cooked sopes to wire racks and cover. Repeat the process with the remaining dough.
3. In a small saucepan, combine the shredded chicken with ½ cup of salsa. Cook the mixture over medium-low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. In a large skillet, melt the shortening and cook the sopes over medium-high heat for 2 minutes on each side or until they become crisp and lightly browned. Drain the sopes on paper towels.
4. To assemble, layer each sope with a spread of refried beans, the chicken and salsa mixture, and the remaining salsa. Sprinkle shredded lettuce and crumbled queso fresco on top of the assembled sopes. Serve immediately to enjoy the flavors at their best.

YIELD: 16 servings of Sopes

PREP/COOK TIME: 15 minutes / 35 minutes

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Take care when handling hot sopes and avoid touching them directly after cooking to prevent burns.

TIPS:

• Customize your Sopes by adding your favorite toppings, such as diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, or a drizzle of hot sauce, to enhance the flavors according to your preferences.
• Serve Sopes as a delightful appetizer at parties or enjoy them as a satisfying main dish alongside a refreshing salad.

Sopes, the traditional Mexican delicacy, beckon you to savor the rich and diverse flavors of Mexico with each delightful bite. Crafted from masa harina, shredded chicken, and a medley of scrumptious toppings, Sopes provide a burst of authentic Mexican taste that can be easily recreated in your kitchen. A perfect fusion of convenience and authenticity, the required ingredients can be found in the ethnic section of larger local supermarkets, allowing you to embark on a culinary journey to Mexico without leaving your home.

Creating Sopes is a joyful process, as the masa harina dough is shaped into delicate circles and cooked on a griddle to perfection. The result is a crispy and flavorful base, ready to be adorned with a delightful combination of shredded chicken, refried beans, and vibrant salsa. Each layer contributes to the ensemble of textures and tastes that make Sopes a true delight for the senses.

The versatility of Sopes allows for creative customization with your favorite toppings, adding a personal touch to this Mexican treasure. Whether served as a delectable appetizer at gatherings or enjoyed as a hearty main dish, Sopes promise to delight your taste buds and leave a lasting impression on your guests.

In conclusion, Sopes invite you to embark on an authentic Mexican culinary adventure, embracing the culture and flavors of Mexico in a simple and accessible manner. The combination of masa harina, shredded chicken, refried beans, and tantalizing toppings creates a delightful ensemble of tastes and textures, perfect for any occasion or as a quick and satisfying snack.

So, let the aroma of Mexico fill your kitchen as you prepare these scrumptious Sopes, and savor the delightful fusion of flavors that make this traditional dish a true celebration of Mexican cuisine.