Sopa de Tortas de Maíz
A comforting and flavorful soup made with tender corn cakes (tortas de maíz) simmered in a savory broth with vegetables. This dish is a delightful way to enjoy the versatility of corn in Nicaraguan cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup Masa harina
- 1/2 cup Water(for the corn cakes)
- 1 tsp Salt(divided)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil(for frying corn cakes)
- 6 cups Chicken broth
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(diced)
- 1 medium Bell pepper (any color)(diced)
- 2 medium Carrots(diced)
- 1 medium Zucchini(diced)
- 1/4 cup Cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
For the corn cakes: In a blender, combine corn kernels, masa harina, 1/2 cup water, and 1/2 tsp salt. Blend until smooth. The mixture should be thick but pourable. If too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time.
- 2
Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the corn mixture into the hot oil to form small cakes. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
- 3
For the soup: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- 4
Add diced tomatoes, bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.
- 5
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Season with the remaining 1/2 tsp salt and pepper to taste.
- 6
Gently add the cooked corn cakes to the simmering soup. Let them cook in the broth for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and slightly softened.
- 7
Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving gets a few corn cakes and plenty of vegetables. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If fresh corn is not available, frozen corn can be used. Thaw it before blending.
- ✓For a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the vegetables.
- ✓You can also add other vegetables like potatoes or chayote to the soup.
🔄 Variations
- Add shredded chicken or small pieces of pork to the soup for added protein.
- For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.