Mexican Sopes

It's been a crazy few weeks.  I've been training for my job and to be honest, I've been pooped out by the time I get home. The shift is odd (10-6:30) so I walk in the door a bit after 7 pm.  My sweet Hubs has been making weeknight dinners and yes, most of them have been out of a box or a bag.  Have to say though, he's done a fantastic job and I appreciate all his efforts.

So now it's the weekend and I have time to make some real food for us.  As you have probably already figured out, we do love some Mexican food.  One of our favorites is sopes.  They are easy to make and delicious.  They are also a great way to use up leftover chicken, beef &/or refried beans. 

Please pardon the quality of my pictures.  I had to use my cell phone.  Our digital camera is on the blink right now.  I lost a few pictures so you're just going to have to wing it. ;)

Sopes
2 cups Masa Harina*
1-1/4 cup Water
1 teaspoon Salt
Flour
Fry Oil (traditional would be Lard/Manteca but you can use Vegetable Oil or Crisco)
Toppings: (use what you like)
Refried beans
Leftover shredded meat (chicken, beef or pork)
Lettuce
Cilantro
Chopped Onions
Chopped Tomatoes
Sour Cream or Creama Fresca*
Shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack Cheese

 

Mix masa, salt and water in a medium size bowl to make a soft dough that does not crumble.  You may need to add a bit more water to make it stick together.  Only add 1 tablespoon at a time. 
Kneed on a floured surface until dough has softened a bit.  This takes about 3 to 5 minutes. 

Make small balls out of the dough (between the size of a walnut and golf ball).

 

Flatten each ball slightly on wax or parchment paper, then take a small glass and press the center.  You are trying to make an indention in the center so you have a raised edge.  It takes a little practice so if you don't get it right the first time, just pick it up and try again.

Set aside all your sopes.

Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large pan.  Fry the sopes until they are light golden brown. 

Drain on paper towels.

 

To assemble:
Place Sope shell on plate, spread with refried beans, then add your favorite toppings.

*Masa Harina and Creama Fresca are easy to find in most grocery stores.  If you're lucky enough to live in a town with a large Mexican community, check out the local Mercado.  You'll find everything you need there and some tasty things you've never seen before!