Sopita, a comforting staple in Mexican cuisine, is a flavorful and hearty soup that brings together simplicity and richness in every bowl. This traditional dish is celebrated for its warm, satisfying qualities and its ability to evoke the essence of home-cooked Mexican meals. At its core, sopita is a nourishing soup made from a blend of fresh ingredients, often featuring a base of broth, tomatoes, and an assortment of vegetables and seasonings.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup pasta (like small shells, elbow macaroni, or fideos)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for serving
- Sliced radishes and avocado for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and tender, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Build the Base: Stir in the tomato sauce and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly. This step is crucial for developing a rich, tomatoey base that will infuse the entire soup with deep flavor.
- Add Broth and Vegetables: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the diced carrots and potatoes, and let them cook until tender, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
- Incorporate Pasta and Corn: Add the pasta and corn kernels to the pot. Continue to cook until the pasta is al dente and the corn is heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Be mindful not to overcook the pasta; it should retain a slight bite to add texture to the soup.
- Season and Garnish: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Stir in the chopped cilantro just before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the sopita into bowls and serve hot. For added freshness and a touch of tanginess, provide lime wedges on the side. Sliced radishes and avocado make delightful garnishes that add a crisp texture and creamy contrast to the rich broth.
Variations and Tips:
- Protein Addition: For a heartier version, you can add cooked chicken, beef, or pork. Simply shred or dice the cooked meat and stir it into the soup along with the pasta and corn.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans to suit your taste or what’s in season.
- Spice Level: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a diced jalapeño or a pinch of chili powder to the broth for a gentle kick.
Sopita is more than just a soup; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. Each spoonful is a celebration of traditional Mexican flavors, offering both nourishment and nostalgia. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, sopita embodies the heartwarming spirit of Mexican home cooking. Enjoy it with your favorite side dishes or simply on its own to appreciate its classic, delicious simplicity.
