Discover how to make Sopes, traditional Mexican thick corn tortillas with raised edges. This easy recipe features a savory topping of beans, meat, fresh lettuce, cheese, and salsa. Perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal, Sopes are ideal for any occasion. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this authentic Mexican dish at home.

Ingredients:

For the Sopes:

 - 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)

 - 1 ½ cups warm water

 - ½ tsp salt

 - 1 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Toppings:

 - 1 cup refried beans (homemade or canned)

 - 1 cup cooked, shredded meat (beef, chicken, or pork)

 - 2 cups shredded lettuce

 - 1 cup crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese

 - 1 cup salsa (your choice of mild or spicy)

 - Optional: sour cream, sliced radishes, or avocado for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Sopes:

  - In a large bowl, mix the masa harina, warm water, salt, and vegetable oil until a smooth dough forms. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

  - Divide the dough into 8-10 equal portions and shape them into balls.

  - Flatten each ball into a ¼-inch thick round tortilla using a tortilla press or a rolling pin.

  - Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each tortilla for about 1 minute on each side, or until lightly browned and cooked through.

  - Remove from the heat and let cool slightly. To form the raised edges, gently pinch the edges of each tortilla to create a small lip around the perimeter.

Assemble the Sopes:

  - Spread a layer of refried beans over each tortilla.

  - Add a portion of shredded meat on top of the beans.

  - Sprinkle with shredded lettuce and crumbled queso fresco or cheese.

  - Top with salsa and any additional garnishes you prefer, such as sour cream, radishes, or avocado.

Serve:

  - Enjoy your Sopes warm as a delicious and satisfying meal. They make a great appetizer or main course for family gatherings or casual dinners.

Feel free to adjust the toppings according to your taste preferences and enjoy this classic Mexican dish at home!

Nutritional Values

Masa Harina (Corn Flour)

 - Calories: 365

 - Protein: 8 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 76 grams

 - Fat: 1 gram

 - Fiber: 7 grams

Benefits:

 - Rich in Carbohydrates: Provides a good source of energy.

 - High in Fiber: Aids in digestion and promotes gut health.

 - Contains Essential Minerals: Includes iron, magnesium, and zinc.

Refried Beans

 - Calories: 127

 - Protein: 8 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 20 grams

 - Fat: 0.5 grams

 - Fiber: 6 grams

Benefits:

 - Good Source of Protein: Supports muscle growth and repair.

 - High in Fiber: Helps regulate blood sugar levels and improves digestion.

 - Rich in Iron: Essential for oxygen transport in the blood.

Cooked, Shredded Meat (Beef, Chicken, or Pork)

 - Calories: 165

 - Protein: 31 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

 - Fat: 3.6 grams

Benefits:

 - High in Protein: Essential for muscle repair and growth.

 - Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Includes B vitamins, iron, and zinc.

 - Supports Metabolism: Provides the building blocks for enzymes and hormones.

Shredded Lettuce

 - Calories: 15

 - Protein: 1 gram

 - Carbohydrates: 3 grams

 - Fat: 0.2 grams

 - Fiber: 1 gram

Benefits:

 - Low in Calories: Helps maintain a healthy weight.

 - Rich in Vitamins: Provides vitamins A and K, which support vision and blood clotting.

 - Hydrating: High water content aids in hydration.

Queso Fresco or Shredded Cheese

 - Calories: 250

 - Protein: 14 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 3 grams

 - Fat: 20 grams

Benefits:

 - Good Source of Calcium: Supports bone health and strength.

 - Rich in Protein: Aids in muscle maintenance.

 - Provides Essential Vitamins: Includes vitamins A and B12.

Salsa

 - Calories: 32

 - Protein: 1 gram

 - Carbohydrates: 7 grams

 - Fat: 0.2 grams

Benefits:

 - Low in Calories: Adds flavor without many calories.

 - Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes in salsa are high in lycopene, which may reduce the risk of certain cancers.

 - Vitamin C: Contributes to immune health and skin health.

Optional Garnishes (Sour Cream, Radishes, Avocado)

Sour Cream (per 100 grams):

 - Calories: 193

 - Protein: 2 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 4 grams

 - Fat: 20 grams

Benefits: Adds creaminess; provides some calcium and protein.

Radishes (per 100 grams):

 - Calories: 16

 - Protein: 0.7 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 4 grams

 - Fat: 0.1 grams

Benefits: Low in calories; rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.

Avocado (per 100 grams):

 - Calories: 160

 - Protein: 2 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 9 grams

 - Fat: 15 grams

Benefits: High in healthy monounsaturated fats; provides potassium and fiber.

Including these ingredients in your Sopes not only enhances flavor but also provides a variety of essential nutrients that support overall health.