Sopa de Cuajada
A comforting and traditional Nicaraguan soup featuring tender 'tortas' (fritters) made from corn masa and cuajada (a type of fresh cheese curd), simmered in a flavorful broth with vegetables. It's a hearty dish often enjoyed during cooler weather or as a special meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Corn masa for tortillas
- 1 lb Cuajada (fresh cheese curd)(crumbled)
- 4 large Eggs
- 3 medium Onions(chopped)
- 3 medium Tomatoes(ripe, chopped)
- 2 medium Chiltomas (Nicaraguan green peppers)(chopped)
- 0.5 liter Vegetable oil
- 1 tsp Achiote (annatto)(diluted for color)
- to taste Salt
- 6 cups Water
- 1 bunch Cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
- 0.5 liter Milk(optional, for creaminess)
- 4 oz Cream(optional, for richness)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the soup base: In a large pot, combine 6 cups of water, chopped onions, tomatoes, chiltomas, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 20-25 minutes until vegetables are tender. You can strain and discard the vegetables, or blend them into the broth for a thicker consistency.
- 2
Prepare the tortas (fritters): In a bowl, combine the corn masa, crumbled cuajada, eggs, diluted achiote, and salt. Mix thoroughly until a cohesive dough forms. If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time. If too wet, add a little more masa.
- 3
Form the tortas: Take small portions of the masa mixture and shape them into small, flat patties or balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter. You can also form them into small fritters.
- 4
Fry the tortas: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Carefully fry the tortas in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per side. Drain them on paper towels.
- 5
Finish the soup: Add the fried tortas to the simmering soup base. If using, stir in milk and cream for added richness. Adjust salt to taste.
- 6
Serve: Ladle the soup with tortas into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a smoother broth, blend the cooked vegetables with some of the broth before returning it to the pot.
- ✓If cuajada is not available, a firm, fresh farmer's cheese can be substituted, though the texture might differ slightly.
- ✓Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the tortas to prevent them from absorbing too much oil.
🔄 Variations
- Add shredded chicken or beef to the soup base for a heartier meal.
- Incorporate other vegetables like carrots or potatoes into the broth.