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Sopes

Sopes are a traditional Mexican antojito made from a thick masa base with pinched edges and savoury toppings.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Sopes are a traditional Mexican antojito made from a thick masa base with pinched edges and savoury toppings. They are commonly served with ingredients such as refried beans, cheese, lettuce, onions, salsa, sour cream, and meat, though regional variations exist.

Description

Sopes are thick corn-based disks that are shaped with a rim or border to hold toppings. Their texture is typically crisp on the outside and soft inside, making them distinct from tortillas and Tostada.

Ingredients and preparation

The base is made from masa and is cooked by frying or griddling before toppings are added. Typical toppings include beans, cheese, lettuce, onion, salsa, sour cream, and various meats.

Regional variations

Sopes are known under different names in some parts of Mexico, including picaditas and pellizcadas. Recipes and toppings vary by region and household.

Cultural context

Sopes are part of Mexican cuisine, a category of small dishes often eaten as snacks or light meals. They are widely recognized in Mexican cuisine and street-food culture.

Key facts

  • Sopes are made from a thick, round masa base with raised, pinched edges.
  • The dish is typically fried and topped with savoury ingredients.
  • Common toppings include refried beans, cheese, lettuce, onions, salsa, crema, and meat.
  • The dish is associated with central and southern Mexico and has regional variations.
  • Sopes are considered an antojito, a type of small Mexican snack or street food.
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Canadian context

Sopes are part of Mexican cuisine and are widely available in Canadian cities with Mexican restaurants, food trucks, and grocers that sell masa or prepared Mexican dishes.

Frequently asked questions

What are sopes?
Sopes are a traditional Mexican dish made from a thick masa base with pinched edges and savoury toppings such as beans, cheese, salsa, and meat.
What is the difference between sopes and tortillas?
Sopes are thicker than tortillas and have raised edges to hold toppings, while tortillas are usually flat and thinner.
What are common sope toppings?
Common toppings include refried beans, cheese, lettuce, onions, salsa, sour cream, and meats such as chicken or pork.
Where did sopes originate?
They originate in Mexico, especially central and southern regions.
Are sopes a snack or a main dish?
They are usually classified as an antojito, meaning a snack or small dish, though they can also be served as a meal.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sope_(food)
    Supports: Definition, Mexican origin, antojito classification, common toppings, alternative names
  2. Wikipedia (Spanish) — https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sope
    Supports: Spanish-language description, pinched edges, toppings, regional variation
  3. LanGeek — https://dictionary.langeek.co/en/word/217908
    Supports: Concise definition of sopes as a traditional Mexican dish with thick masa and toppings
  4. Cookipedia — https://www.cookipedia.co.uk/recipes_wiki/Sopes
    Supports: Preparation description, toppings, antojito classification, possible regional origin attribution
  5. TasteAtlas — https://www.tasteatlas.com/sope
    Supports: Traditional snack classification and association with Mexican cuisine