Sopa de Letras, or Alphabet Soup, isn't just a children's game; it's a heartwarming, comforting Mexican tradition. This vibrant and flavorful soup transcends the simple broth and pasta of its American counterpart, boasting a rich depth achieved through simmering chicken or beef, a medley of vegetables, and a subtle touch of spice. Forget bland noodles; this recipe uses small pasta shapes reminiscent of tiny letters, adding a playful element to a truly satisfying meal. The authentic Mexican flavors will transport you to a cozy kitchen in Mexico, promising a delicious and nourishing experience.
Beyond the delightful aroma and vibrant colors, Sopa de Letras is surprisingly easy to prepare. Ready to experience the magic of this traditional Mexican soup? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below to create your own delicious and authentic bowl of Sopa de Letras.
Tools Needed
- Stove
- Pot
- Timer
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 2-3 tablespoons
- Sopa de Letras mini alphabet pasta: 1 1/2 cups
- Chicken broth or water: 1 1/4 cups
- Tomato sauce: 1 cup
- Diced onions: 1/4 cup
- Garlic salt
- Salt: to taste
- Pepper: to taste
- Avocado
- Cilantro
- Sour cream
- Corn tortillas
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Add Pasta
- Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup of diced onions and sauté until lightly browned (about 1-2 minutes), stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the Sopa de Letras pasta to the pot.
Step 2. Prepare and Add Sauce
- In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of tomato sauce and 1 1/4 cups of water. Add garlic salt and seasoning to your taste.
- Add the tomato sauce and water mixture to the pot. Stir to combine.
Step 3. Simmer and Cook
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for approximately 20 minutes, or until the pasta is fully cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Once cooked, remove from heat and stir.
Read more: Creamy Caldo de Papa Recipe: Easy Mexican Potato Soup
Tips
- Adjust the cooking time to achieve your desired consistency. For a thinner soup, cook for 15 minutes. For a thicker soup, cook for 20-25 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process. Mexican cooking emphasizes taste and feel.
- Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, cilantro, sour cream, and corn tortillas.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-450
- Fat: 15-20gg
- Carbs: 50-60gg
- Protein: 10-15gg
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of pasta in Sopa de Letras?
While small pasta shapes are traditional, you can substitute with other small pasta like ditalini, or even tiny noodles. Just ensure they cook in a similar timeframe to the other vegetables.
2. What can I substitute for chicken or beef broth?
Vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version. You might want to add a little extra seasoning to compensate for the lack of meatiness.
3. How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of chili powder or a few slices of jalapeño pepper to the broth while it simmers. You can also add a dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end.
Sopa de Letras, a simple yet deeply satisfying soup, is a perfect example of Mexican culinary ingenuity. This recipe offers a delicious and accessible way to share a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine with your family and friends. Enjoy the comforting warmth and vibrant flavors of your homemade Sopa de Letras!