Description
Sopes with Refried Beans and Cheese are a traditional Mexican dish featuring small, thick corn masa discs fried until crisp and topped with flavorful refried beans, queso fresco, creamy Mexican crema, and fresh garnishes. This recipe is perfect for a satisfying snack or light meal, combining textures and savory flavors with the option to customize toppings like shredded lettuce and salsa.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 2 cups masa harina (gluten-free if desired)
- 1 cup warm water (adjust as necessary for dough consistency)
- 1 teaspoon salt (enhances flavor)
Toppings and Filling
- 2 cups refried beans (homemade or canned variety)
- 1 cup queso fresco (substitute with feta if necessary)
- 1 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
- 1 cup fresh cilantro (optional; parsley can be used)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (optional for added texture)
- To taste salsa or hot sauce (for added flavor)
For Frying
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (canola or sunflower oil work well)
Instructions
- Mix the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, salt, and warm water. Stir thoroughly until a soft, pliable dough forms. Add a little more water if necessary to prevent cracking and achieve the perfect consistency.
- Portion and Shape: Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a disc roughly 3 inches in diameter, preparing the base for the sope.
- Cook the Discs: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Place each dough disc in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until they are slightly browned but not fully cooked.
- Create Edges: While the discs are still warm, use your fingers to carefully pinch the outer edges upward, forming a shallow rim that will hold the toppings securely.
- Fry the Sopes: In a separate skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the shaped sopes for about 1-2 minutes per side or until they turn golden and develop a crisp texture. Remove and drain excess oil on paper towels.
- Add the Fillings: Spread a generous layer of refried beans on each fried sope. Then sprinkle with crumbled queso fresco, drizzle Mexican crema on top, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Optionally, add shredded lettuce for extra crunch and freshness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the sopes warm alongside salsa or hot sauce to taste. They make a delicious and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or meal.
Notes
- Adjust water gradually when mixing the masa dough to get a soft but workable texture.
- Pinching the edges carefully while the dough is warm helps prevent cracking later.
- Use vegetable oil with a neutral flavor for frying to allow the sope’s flavors to shine.
- Substitutes like feta cheese and regular sour cream are acceptable if traditional ingredients are unavailable.
- Sopes are best served immediately while warm and crispy, but leftovers can be reheated in a skillet to maintain texture.
- Customize toppings such as adding diced onions, radishes, or avocado for added flavor and variety.
