Sopa de Papa: Traditional Mexican Potato Soup

When it comes to Mexican comfort food, few dishes are as simple yet satisfying as sopa de papa. This classic Mexican potato soup, known for its hearty, comforting flavors, is perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch. In just under 30 minutes, you can have a bowl of this delicious, warm soup ready to enjoy. Best of all, it's naturally plant-based and gluten-free, with optional toppings to customize it to your liking!
A bowl of traditional Mexican potato soup, or Sopa de Papa, with a rich tomato base and potato cubes, garnished with a cilantro leaf, sits on a marble surface. Nearby, a small bowl holds coriander seeds and sprigs. A black spoon rests on a folded gray napkin beside the bowl.

What is sopa de papa?

Sopa de papa is a traditional Mexican potato soup made with simple ingredients that create a flavorful broth called caldillo. This broth is prepared by simmering tomatoes, onions, and garlic together. Afterward, the potatoes are cooked in the broth.

The soup is garnished with cilantro and oregano, giving it a fresh and fragrant flavor that is perfect for any time of year. Many people enjoy it with warm, freshly made tortillas or topped with crumbled queso fresco.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Potato Soup Recipe

  • Quick and easy: It’s ready in just 30 minutes and uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
  • Budget-friendly: Made with potatoes, tomatoes, and other inexpensive staples.
  • Naturally vegan and gluten-free: This is great for anyone living a plant-based or gluten-free lifestyle.
  • Customizable: You can enhance your dish by adding your favorite toppings, such as fresh cheese, sour cream, or avocado slices.
A collection of fresh ingredients for a Traditional Mexican Soup on a gray surface: a bowl of red tomatoes, a plate of potatoes perfect for Sopa de Papa, fresh cilantro, halved onion with three garlic cloves, and a small wooden bowl with herbs. Plates and bowls have earthy colors and textures.

Ingredients for Sopa de PApa

  • Potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • White onion, finely chopped
  • Garlic cloves
  • Tomatoes
  • Vegetable broth or water
  • Oregano and Fresh cilantro

How to Make Sopa de Papa

Step 1: Prepare the base. Blend the onion, tomatoes, and garlic until smooth.

Step 2: Sauté the mixture. Heat a little oil over medium heat in a pot. Add the blended mixture and cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to change color; you want a strong red color.

Step 3: Add potatoes and broth or water. Peel and dice the potatoes. Add them to the pot, followed by vegetable broth, water, oregano, and cilantro. Let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.

Step 4: Serve your sopa de papa hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, crumbled queso fresco, or sour cream. For a traditional touch, enjoy with homemade warm tortillas.

Variations and Toppings

  • Make it cheesy: Top your soup with shredded cheddar or queso fresco for added richness.
  • Spice it up: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of chili powder if you like your soup with a kick.
  • Creamy version: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or use dairy-free cream for an extra creamy texture.
  • Serve with sides: Fresh corn tortillas, a light salad, or a slice of crusty bread are great accompaniments.

Why Sopa de Papa Is a Comfort Food Classic

Whether you’re enjoying it as a light starter or a filling meal, this potato soup brings the warmth of Mexican cuisine to your table. The natural flavors of the potatoes, combined with the aromatic blend of garlic, tomatoes, and cilantro, make this a dish you’ll return to again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add cheese to sopa de papa? Yes! Adding cheese like queso fresco, cotija or chihuahua is a popular option.

How do I store leftovers? Any leftover sopa de papa can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Yes, you can freeze sopa de papa for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Sopa de Papa: Traditional Mexican Potato Soup Recipe

Alejandra Graf
When it comes to Mexican comfort food, few dishes are as simple yet satisfying as sopa de papa. This classic Mexican potato soup, known for its hearty, comforting flavors, is perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch. In just under 30 minutes, you can have a bowl of this delicious, warm soup ready to enjoy. Best of all, it's naturally plant-based and gluten-free, with optional toppings to customize it to your liking!
5 de 1 voto
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Soup
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4 people
Calories 32 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Soup pot

Ingredients
  

  • 5 medium potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 1/2 white onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 2 large tomatoes
  • 4 cups of vegetable broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon of oregano
  • 1 sprig of fresh cilantro
  • Salt to taste

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the base. Blend the onion, tomatoes, and garlic until smooth.
  • Sauté the mixture. In a pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the blended mixture and cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to change in color; you are looking for a strong red color.
  • Add potatoes and broth or water. Peel and dice the potatoes. Add them to the pot, followed by vegetable broth, water, oregano, and cilantro. Let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
  • Serve your sopa de papa hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, crumbled queso fresco, or sour cream. Enjoy with warm tortillas for a traditional touch.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 32kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 1gFat: 0.2gSaturated Fat: 0.03gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.03gSodium: 944mgPotassium: 181mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1055IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.4mg
Keyword potatoes

information

Nutritional information of this recipe is only an estimate, the accuracy for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.

Did you make this recipe?Tag @piloncilloyvainilla on Instagram and hashtag it #alecooks so we can all see your creations.

Alejandra Graf
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