Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the beef and add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, sautéed with the onions.
DINNER
Hearty Paraguayan Sopa Paraguaya with Savory Beef
Experience a unique savory cornbread cake from Paraguay, enriched with tender beef, onions, and cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no pink remains, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
02
Add 2 large finely chopped yellow onions to the skillet with the beef. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent, about 8-10 minutes.
03
In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of milk, 2 cups of fine cornmeal, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well until smooth.
04
Stir the cooked beef and onion mixture into the cornmeal batter. Add 2 cups of crumbled queso fresco and 3 large eggs, mixing until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
05
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
06
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F/190°C for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
07
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
About This Recipe
Experience a unique savory cornbread cake from Paraguay, enriched with tender beef, onions, and cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For an extra crispy top, you can sprinkle a little extra cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. Ensure your cornmeal is fine-ground for the best texture.
Easy Substitutions
Ground pork or a mix of beef and pork can be used instead of ground beef. Monterey Jack or mild cheddar can substitute queso fresco. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef and onion mixture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Sopa Paraguaya in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Hearty Paraguayan Sopa Paraguaya with a simple green salad, a side of fresh tomato salsa, or a dollop of sour cream. It also pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp white wine or a cold beer.
Common Mistakes
Overcooking the Sopa Paraguaya can lead to a dry texture; watch for the golden-brown top and clean knife test. Not draining the beef fat can make the dish greasy. Using coarse cornmeal will result in a grainier texture, deviating from the traditional smooth, dense cake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of cornmeal should I use?
Fine cornmeal is traditional for Sopa Paraguaya. If you only have medium-ground, you can pulse it briefly in a food processor to achieve a finer texture.
Can I freeze Sopa Paraguaya?
Yes, you can freeze baked and cooled Sopa Paraguaya in individual portions, wrapped tightly, for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat.
MORE TO KNOW
Sopa Paraguaya, despite its name, is not a soup but a savory cornbread-like cake. Its origin is often attributed to a mistake by a cook who added too much cornmeal to a soup for President Carlos Antonio López. The result was a thick, delicious cake that became a national dish. The key to its authentic texture is using fine cornmeal, which gives it a dense yet moist consistency.
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