Sopita is a beloved comfort food in Mexico, often enjoyed as a light meal or appetizer. This dish features small pasta, typically vermicelli or elbow macaroni, cooked in a flavorful broth infused with tomatoes, garlic, and spices. The result is a warm, hearty soup that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Each family has its own twist on sopita, making it a versatile dish that can be customized with various vegetables or proteins. Perfect for chilly days or any time you crave a taste of home, this sopita recipe captures the essence of traditional Mexican cooking.
Ingredients
- For the broth:
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1-2 small green chilies (like serrano or jalapeño), chopped
- For the sopita:
- 1 cup vermicelli or elbow macaroni
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth:
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes (or canned tomatoes), cumin, salt, pepper, and optional chilies. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the tomatoes break down and form a sauce.
- Add the Broth:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Add the vermicelli or elbow macaroni to the pot. Cook according to package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
- Finish and Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
- Ladle the sopita into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
Tips
- Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or corn to enhance the nutritional value.
- For added protein, you can include shredded chicken or beans.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for a couple of days.
Enjoy your authentic Mexican sopita, a cozy dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table!
