Sope De Queso Nicaraguense Recipe (with Video)

Prepare the Soup Base
1. Place the water, tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic and mint bunch in a large soup pot.
2. Bring to a boil, and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes.
Prepare the Masa-Cheese Dough
1. In a large bowl, mix together the masa, cheese, achiote mixture, and a large pinch of salt.
2. Remove about a cup of this mixture to a separate bowl and stir in 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup sour orange juice until smooth.
3. Set aside.
Prepare the Rings
1. Divide the remaining masa-cheese dough into 1 tablespoon portions and roll out to a 3-4 inch rope.
2. Press the ends together to make a ring.
3. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a small pot or skillet and fry the rings until golden brown on both sides.
4. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
Finalize the Soup
1. Remove the vegetables from the pot with a slotted spoon and discard.
2. Whisk in the thinned out masa mixture from earlier and cook until slightly thickened.
3. Whisk in the warmed milk and bring to a small simmer.
4. Whisk a bit of the warmed soup into the sour cream to bring to temp and then stir back into the soup.
5. Whisk the eggs if using and stir into the soup.
6. Heat until cooked through.
7. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve
1. Pour into bowls, top with the fried rings and garnish with mint.
2. Enjoy!