Sopaipillas(Deep Fat Fried Bread)
Sopaipillas are fluffy, deep-fried bread pillows with a subtly sweet flavor, perfect as a bread or dessert accompaniment for any New Mexican meal, especially with honey.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients and cut in shortening.
- Dissolve yeast in lukewarm water.
- Add to cooled scalded milk.
- Make a well in the center of dry ingredients.
- Add liquid to dry ingredients and work into dough.
- Knead dough 15 to 20 times and set aside for approximately 10 minutes.
- Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness or slightly thinner.
- Cut into squares or triangles.
- Fry in melted shortening at 420°F, frying only a few at a time.
- Fry until puffed up and hollow.
- Drain sopaipillas on absorbent towels and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your yeast is fresh and activated properly before mixing. You can substitute shortening with butter or lard for a richer flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Adjust the frying temperature as needed to avoid burning, and keep the oil clean for the best results. For a tasty twist, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top after frying.
Serving Suggestions
Sopaipillas are best served warm and can be enjoyed with honey, syrup, or your favorite dipping sauce. They pair beautifully with Chili Pepper Rice for a delightful meal. For a fun snack, serve alongside Derek'S Hot Mexican Bean Dip or Tex-Mex Dip(Light). These fluffy treats can also be used as a base for savory toppings or filled with your favorite ingredients.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sopaipillas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sopaipillas(Deep Fat Fried Bread) contains roughly 80 calories, with 4g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1557mg per serving (68% 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 self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use self-rising flour, but omit the baking powder and salt from the recipe. The self-rising flour already contains these ingredients, which will help your sopaipillas rise and puff up while frying.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, gradually add a little more flour until it reaches a workable consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour, as it can make the dough tough. Kneading the dough lightly can also help it firm up.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After kneading, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before rolling it out and frying for the best texture.
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).