Sopes Recipe – Healthy Mexican Delight

Servings: 4 Total Time: 45 mins Difficulty: Beginner
A heathier version of Sopes
sopes pinit
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Crispy Corn Sopes Loaded with Fresh Veggies & Lean Protein – Ready in 45 Minutes!”

Sopes Recipe – Healthy Mexican Delight

Sopes are a beloved Mexican street food featuring thick, handmade corn cakes with pinched edges to hold savory toppings. Think edible mini bowls bursting with flavor!

This healthy version skips lard and uses lean protein, fresh vegetables, and fiber-rich beans for a nutritious twist. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, these sopes deliver authentic taste without guilt. Crispy outside, tender inside, and endlessly customizable – they’re a fiesta on a plate!

Recommended Occasions: Weeknight dinners, Game day snacks, Casual parties, Lunch meal prep (store bases/toppings separately).

Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 25 mins Total Time 45 mins Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 4 Calories: 320 kcal Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Ingredients

For Sopes Bases:

Toppings (Healthy Version):

Optional Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Make Dough:
    Mix masa harina, salt, and warm water. Knead 3–4 minutes until smooth. Rest 5 minutes.
  2. Shape Bases:
    Divide dough into 8 balls. Flatten each into ½-inch thick discs (3-inch diameter). Pinch edges to form a rim.
  3. Cook Sopes:

    Heat a skillet over medium heat (350°F/175°C). Lightly spray with oil. Cook sopes 3–4 minutes per side until golden.

  4. Add Beans:

    Spread 1 tbsp refried beans onto each warm base.

  5. Layer Toppings:

    Top with chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, cheese, and cilantro.

  6. Finish:

    Drizzle with crema and salsa. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 320kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 10g16%
Saturated Fat 2.5g13%
Cholesterol 35mg12%
Sodium 380mg16%
Potassium 420mg12%
Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
Dietary Fiber 8g32%
Sugars 2g
Protein 18g36%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

  • Vegetarian: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or spiced lentils.
  • Vegan: Use vegan cheese/yogurt and skip crema.
  • Time-Saver: Use rotisserie chicken and canned beans.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
Can I make sopes ahead?

Yes! Prep dough and toppings separately. Cook bases just before serving for crispness.

Are sopes gluten-free?

Absolutely – masa harina is 100% corn. Ensure your refried beans are GF-certified.

How to keep sopes crispy?

Avoid stacking cooked bases. Store uncovered in a warm oven (200°F/95°C) until serving.

Vegan substitute for crema?

Blend soaked cashews with lime juice or use almond-based yogurt.

Are sopes high-calorie?

This healthy version is ~320 kcal/serving. Skip cheese/crema to reduce further.

Can I air-fry sopes?

Yes! Spray bases with oil and air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes.