Sopa De Letras

By Cherry Crawford May 5, 2023 33 mins read 191 Views

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Sopa De Letras (or alphabet soup) is a hearty and delicious Mexican tomato soup. It's full of flavor. This soup is perfect for a weeknight meal if you want a large bowl of comforting food. The meal is easy to make (it takes only 20 minutes!) It's vegan and you can freeze a large batch! Note: You will be searching for words with every spoonful.

What is Sopa De Letras?

This Mexican soup uses toasted alphabet noodles, some vegetables, spices and vegetable broth. This is a quick and easy recipe, perfect for days when you have no time to cook. This recipe was given to me by my friend Yvette Sharpnack who has just published it in Muy Bueno Fiestas, her latest cookbook. The book is a must-read for anyone who loves easy, delicious, and approachable Mexican food. Her recipes are amazing!

Ingredients For Sopa De Letras

It only takes a few simple steps to make this soup! If you want a simple and filling recipe that's perfect for busy days then here's the ingredients you'll need to make Sopa De Letras.

Alphabet Pasta - You can find this tiny pasta in the Latin aisle of most supermarkets. You can substitute it with other small pastas like ditalini or couscous. Or you can use star-shaped pasta to make Sopa de Estrellitas.
Roma Tomates- Form the base for the broth. The tangy, savory flavor of tomatoes enhances the flavor. You can use 1 pound of fresh tomatoes or a 15 ounce can of crushed tomato.
Garlic and Onions are aromatics which add earthy sweetness and complexity. Substitute the onion with half a tablespoon of onion powder, and the garlic with an eighth teaspoon of garlic powder.
Vegetable Broth makes this soup vegetarian, but you can use chicken broth instead if that is what you have.

Toppings for Sopa De Letras

Enjoy your soup just as it is, or spice things up with some tasty toppings!

Yogurt or sour cream will add richness and tanginess to your soup.
Shredded Cheese adds creaminess and flavor.
Cilantroadds a herbaceousness to the soup and adds a splash of color.
Add lime wedges to your soup for acidity and brightness.
Chile Flakes or Hot Sauce will add some heat to your soup.
Chopped Avocadoadds creaminess and bulk.

What to serve with Sopa de Letras

Add some sides to make it a more hearty meal. Serve it with Cilantro-Lime Rice, Homemade Garlic Bread or Southwest Salad dressed with Taco Ranch. You can serve the soup as a starter with Black Bean Avocado Enchiladas or Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas.

How To Store Sopa De Letras

Store leftovers in a container that is airtight in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. You may need to add additional veggie broth when reheating the pasta, as it will absorb a lot of the broth. You can freeze the broth if you want to. When you reheat the broth, add the toasted pasta.

Sopa De Letras

Sopa De Letras (or alphabet soup) is a hearty and delicious Mexican tomato soup. It's ready in just 20 minutes!

Lunch, Dinner, Soup

Mexican

Total Cost 6.70 dollars recipe / 0.84 cents per serving

Preparation Time five minutes

Cook Time 30 15

Total time twenty minute

servings cups

Calories 1 kcal

Author Yvette marquez-Sharpnack, Muy Bueno Fiestas Copyright (c). 2023.

Equipment

Blender
Dutch Oven

Ingredients

1/2 white onion, quartered $0.33
3 Roma tomatoes, quartered $1.35
1 clove garlic, coarsely chopped $0.07
1/2 tsp ground black pepper $0.02
2 cups vegetable broth $0.37
2 Tbsp olive oil $0.12
7 oz alphabet pasta $4.42
2 cups water $0.01
1/4 tsp salt (or more to taste) $0.01

Instructions

Combine the tomato, onion, garlic, pepper and veggie broth in a blender and puree until smooth.
Warm the oil in a Dutch Oven over medium heat. Add the alphabet noodles and stir until they are lightly toasted. This should take 1-2 minutes.
Stir well the pureed mixture and cook it, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes, until it darkens.
Stirring occasionally, add the water and bring it to a rolling boil. Reduce the heat, cover and cook for about 10 minutes.
Sprinkle with salt and ladle into serving bowls.

Find out how to calculate the cost of a recipe here.

Nutrition

How to make Sopa de Letras: Step by step photos

Combine the 1/2 white onion with 3 Roma tomatoes in a blender. Add 1 clove of garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper and 2 cups veggie broth. Puree until smooth.

Warm the 2 tablespoons olive oil in a Dutch Oven over medium heat. Add 7 ounces alphabet pasta, stir and heat until lightly toasted (1-2 minutes).

Stir well and add the pureed mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes, until it thickens and turns dark.

Stir well and add the 2 cups water. Bring to a rolling boil while stirring. Reduce the heat, cover and cook for about 10 minutes.

Serve with a sprinkle of salt and ladle the soup into bowls. It was so easy, wasn't it? Hope you can enjoy your time without worrying about what poster board you need to finish a project due tomorrow that you forgot about. #momlife

More Easy Soups

Chicken Noodle Soup

Sausage Tortellini Soup

Tomato Lentil Soup

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1v8mHl9DXMD1JMQsS9UHcgkB7KkdfAHhPSZilJEjfzhY/edit?usp=sharing

Budget Bytes published the first article Sopa De Letras.

References:

By: Monti - Budget Bytes
Title: Sopa De Letras
Sourced From: www.budgetbytes.com/sopa-de-letras/
Published Date: Fri, 05 May 2023 14:01:14 +0000

Frequently Asked Questions

Which herbs are healing herbs?

If you look for healing herbs, you won’t find them in the supermarket. There isn’t any place to buy them. There is no store selling them.

You haven’t been able to find healing herbs because they aren’t sold anywhere. They are grown right here in our backyard.

Healing herbs are plants that grow naturally in North America. Like many common household items, these herbs grow throughout the United States and Canada.

These herbs treat minor ailments such as colds, flu, sore throats, coughs, and headaches. Many of these herbs have been used for centuries to help heal wounds and promote overall health.

Of course, when we say “heal,” we mean more than simply treating an illness. We also refer to the ability of these herbs to restore balance and harmony within ourselves and the world around us.

For example, the chamomile herb helps relieve stress. This means that if you feel stressed out, you may benefit from taking chamomile tea. Chamomile tea has been shown to reduce anxiety and nervous tension.

In addition, chamomile tea has been proven effective in relieving insomnia.

Chamomile tea has many other benefits, including its ability to ease stomach aches and gas pains and even improve digestion.

Another popular healing herb is Echinacea. Echinacea is known for helping to fight infections and boosting the immune system.

Echinacea is commonly taken internally and externally to fight infection, prevent viral diseases, and boost immunity. It is safe to use during pregnancy and lactation.

Echinacea also helps reduce muscle pain and inflammation. You can take echinacea orally or topically (as an ointment).

This herb is available in both liquid and capsule form. Liquid echinacea is often mixed with honey and lemon juice. The mixture is then strained and consumed.

Capsules are usually made of freeze-dried plant material. They contain standardized amounts of active ingredients. To use capsules, swallow one or two a day.

The third type of herbal remedy is called tincture. Tinctures are alcoholic extracts of herbs. They are typically used to treat internal problems. Tinctures are generally diluted before being ingested.

Tinctures can be taken orally or applied topically. For oral consumption, dilute tinctures with water. Some people prefer to mix tinctures with food.

Tinctures are easy to prepare. Put about one tablespoon of dried herb into a bottle containing enough alcohol to cover the herb completely. Allow the mixture to sit for several weeks. Then strain and consume.

You may want to try some of these natural remedies to see which ones work best.

What are the side effects of basil?

Basil is an herb that originated in tropical regions of India, Africa, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile.

The plant is easy to grow in most climates and requires little maintenance. Basil also thrives in poor soil conditions and is very drought tolerant.

As for the health benefits, more than 200 known compounds are found in basil, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans, polysaccharides, essential oils, vitamins, and minerals.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties which may help relieve symptoms associated with arthritis, asthma, allergies, bronchitis, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, digestive disorders, depression, eczema, insomnia, infections, migraines, osteoporosis, psoriasis, respiratory problems, stress, and ulcers.

Basil is also a culinary spice and is often added to tomato sauces, soups, salads, pasta dishes, rice dishes, dips, casseroles, pizza toppings, pesto, chicken wings, and popcorn.

However, like all herbs, basil should be consumed in moderation. Too much of anything is not good for you. For example, eating large amounts of basil could lead to stomach upset. And if you have sensitive tummies, avoid consuming basil during pregnancy.

If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your doctor before taking herbal supplements.

You should only take one type of supplement at a time. If you take other medications, make sure they do not interact with each other.

You should never use herbs while on medication unless directed by your doctor.

Some people experience allergic reactions when using herbs, especially those allergic to ragweed. Symptoms include hives, swelling around the mouth or eyes, shortness of breath, chest tightness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, fainting, heart palpitations, blurred vision, loss of consciousness, seizures, or even death.

Some people who take certain medications may develop an allergy to basil. These drugs include:

Antacids (like Alka Seltzer)
Anti-anxiety medicines (Valium, Xanax, Ativan, etc.)
Beta-blockers (like Propranolol)
Blood thinners (like Coumadin)
Calcium channel blockers (like Amlodipine)
Cholesterol-lowering drugs (like Lipitor, Zocor, Mevacor, and Pravachol)
Diabetes medicine (like Glucophage)
Diuretics (like Lasix)
Heartburn medicines (like Prilosec OTC)
Hormone therapy (like Premarin, Tamoxifen, Femara)
Insulin (like Humalog, Lantus, Novolin R)
NSAIDs (like Aleve, Motrin, Advil, Excedrin, Tylenol, Ibuprofen)
Oral contraceptives (like Ortho Evra, Yasmin, Loestrin, Ovrette, Yaz, and Seasonale)
Pain relievers (like Aspirin, Celebrex, Vicodin, Percodan, Darvocet, Dilaudid, Fiorinal, Tylenol 3s, Naproxen, Motrin, Tramadol, Ultram, Voltaren

Is it okay to use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

It is best to pick up fresh herbs whenever possible when using herbs.

Although dried herbs are convenient, they don’t provide the same benefits as fresh herbs.

Fresh herbs contain essential oils that give your food a unique flavor. These oils help preserve the nutrients within the herb.

Dried herbs lose all their flavor after drying, so they cannot replace fresh herbs.

You should only use dried herbs if you absolutely must. Otherwise, you should get your fresh herbs from the market.

What are the disadvantages of using herbs?

Herbs are a great way to keep your body healthy because they contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, enzymes, amino acids, phytonutrients, polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenes, essential oils, carotenoids, sterols, and sterolins. Some even contain cannabinoids.

But there are also lots of side effects associated with herbal remedies. For example, taking too much herb could cause liver damage or even death. Herbal supplements may interact with prescription drugs, which means that they might affect how well the drug works.

Some herbs can interfere with blood clotting, while others may increase bleeding when taken with anticoagulants (blood thinners).

There are also safety concerns for pregnant women and children.

The bottom line is that herbs aren't safe for everyone. If you're considering trying them out, do your homework. Look up each product's side effects and warnings and read reviews online.

What spices assist in recovery?

The use of spices to aid in healing is an ancient practice dating back centuries. Many spices have been used for their medicinal properties, including ginger, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, turmeric, and garlic. Each of these spices has unique benefits that can help with various health issues.

Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and can help reduce inflammation in the body. It can also be used to soothe an upset stomach or relieve nausea.

Cinnamon has been found to have a wide range of medicinal properties, including antiseptic, antifungal, antimicrobial, and antioxidant agents. It is even believed to help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial in helping prevent diabetes.

Cayenne pepper has been used for centuries as a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent. It is also thought to increase circulation and metabolism, which can help the body heal more quickly.

Turmeric is an herb that contains curcumin, a powerful antioxidant. Curcumin is beneficial in treating various conditions, from arthritis and neurological disorders to cancer.

Garlic is packed with nutrients and has many health benefits. It can help reduce inflammation, act as antibiotic, lower cholesterol levels, and even boost the immune system.

These spices are all-natural ways to help the body heal and improve overall health. They can all be easily incorporated into food or taken in supplement form for convenience. While spices alone won't cure any ailments, they can play an essential role in aiding healing.

In addition to spices, there are also other natural remedies for healing, such as herbs, essential oils, and homeopathy. Research has shown that many of these remedies can be effective in treating a variety of conditions. If you're looking for an alternative to conventional medicine, consider incorporating some of these natural remedies into your health routine.

Statistics

Herbs are among the most popular and widely used medicinal remedies. According to a survey conducted by the National Institutes of Health, herbs were used by over 38% of adults in the United States.
The global herbs market is expected to reach more than $125 billion by the end of 2025.

External Links

How To

What to look for in herbs?

Herbs contain natural compounds that may help treat various conditions. In addition, herbal remedies may provide relief when used along with conventional treatments.

Herbal remedies include teas, capsules, tablets, ointments, creams, lotions, oils, and topical applications. Some of these products are meant to be taken internally, while others are applied externally.

The most common uses of herbal remedies include relieving minor aches and pains, treating cold symptoms, reducing fever, controlling coughs and sore throats, easing digestion problems, soothing skin irritations, alleviating menstrual cramps, and providing general health benefits.

When buying herbs, look for the following:

Freshly picked plants. Avoid dried herbs unless they've been stored in a cool place. If possible, buy herbs directly from farmers' markets.
Pure extracts. These are made by extracting the active ingredients from herbs using alcohol or water. Look for 100% pure extractions.
Certified organic herbs. Organic herbs must meet strict standards set forth by the USDA.
Natural flavors. Many herbs have strong scents that can overwhelm other foods. Adding flavorings such as vanilla, almond, or orange helps mask their smell.
Potency. The amount of active ingredient per unit weight varies depending on the type of herb.
Packaging. When purchasing herbs, check the packaging to ensure that it's clean and free of chemicals.