Sopa Paraguay (Corn Bread)
Sopa Paraguay is a savory Paraguayan cornbread with cheesy, onion flavors, perfect for sharing at family gatherings or as a comforting snack with a touch of tradition.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, corn meal, sugar, salt, baking powder, and grated cheese in a bowl and set aside.
- Saute oil and onions in a skillet until onions are clear.
- Beat eggs and milk together in a small bowl.
- Add the sautéed onions with egg-milk mixture to the dry ingredients.
- Stir until blended.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 12-inch pan.
- Bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, substitute the white flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Adding some herbs like parsley or cilantro can enhance the flavor. If you like a bit of heat, consider mixing in some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Make sure to use fresh cheese for the best texture and taste. To save time, you can use pre-grated cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Sopa Paraguay is best served warm as a side dish or a main course. It pairs beautifully with a simple salad or can be enjoyed alongside grilled meats. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a bowl of soup or a dip like Cheese Fondue (Dip). It also makes a great snack any time of the day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the Sopa Paraguay in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sopa Paraguay (Corn Bread) contains roughly 527 calories, with 8g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1475mg per serving (64% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen corn instead of corn meal?
While frozen corn can be used, it will change the texture of the dish significantly. If you prefer a more authentic taste, stick with corn meal. If using frozen corn, drain it well and chop it finely before mixing it with the other ingredients.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but to enhance the flavors, consider adding diced bell peppers or spinach to the mixture. You can also use plant-based cheese for a fully vegan option. Browse more vegetarian recipes for additional ideas on sides to serve with it.
What type of cheese works best for Sopa Paraguay?
A blend of mozzarella and Paraguayan cheese works wonderfully, providing a creamy texture. If Paraguayan cheese is unavailable, you can use any mild, melting cheese like Monterey Jack or a combination of cheddar and mozzarella to mimic the flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).