Sopas is a cherished Filipino comfort food, especially enjoyed during breakfast, cold weather, or when feeling under the weather. This creamy macaroni soup traditionally features chicken, but this variation uses minced beef for a heartier flavor.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 500 grams ground beef
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 5 cups beef broth
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded
• 1 can (370 ml) evaporated milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: sliced hotdogs or ham

Directions

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic and onions until fragrant and translucent.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Stir in diced carrots and celery; cook for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil.
5. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
6. Once pasta is cooked, add shredded cabbage and optional hotdogs or ham. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
7. Lower the heat and pour in evaporated milk. Stir gently and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 467 kcal
• Total Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6.3 g
• Cholesterol: 111 mg
• Sodium: 1.9 g
• Total Carbohydrates: 53 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3.6 g
  • Sugars: 6.2 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Calcium: 122 mg
• Iron: 2.5 mg
• Potassium: 618.2 mg

The Origin of Sopas

Filipino sopas has its roots in Spanish and American influences. The word “sopas” itself is derived from Spanish, which means “soup.” However, the dish we know today in the Philippines has evolved with a combination of Western ingredients introduced during the American colonial period. The use of macaroni pasta and milk reflects these influences, as both ingredients were widely introduced to the Philippines during that time. Over the years, Filipinos have adapted the recipe using locally available ingredients, making it an essential dish in every home. While the traditional version calls for chicken, Filipinos have made several modifications based on their preferences and availability of ingredients.

Why Minced Beef Sopas is a Must-Try

There are many reasons why this minced beef sopas recipe is worth trying. First, the use of ground beef instead of chicken or other meats gives it a rich umami flavor that pairs well with the creamy broth. The beef’s natural fat content enhances the taste of the soup, making it more satisfying and hearty. Unlike shredded chicken, minced beef also cooks faster, making it a great option for those who want a quick yet delicious meal. Another reason to love this version of sopas is its nutritional benefits. With the combination of beef, milk, pasta, and vegetables, this dish provides a well-rounded meal. The beef is an excellent source of protein and iron, while the milk adds calcium for strong bones. The vegetables such as carrots, celery, and cabbage provide essential vitamins and minerals, making the dish not only tasty but also nutritious.

The Role of Evaporated Milk in Sopas

One of the key ingredients that makes sopas stand out from other macaroni soups is the use of evaporated milk. Unlike fresh milk, evaporated milk has a slightly caramelized and concentrated flavor that enhances the soup’s creaminess without making it overly rich. This unique taste gives Filipino sopas its signature comforting quality, making it distinct from other creamy soups like chowders or Western-style pasta soups. The addition of evaporated milk not only provides creaminess but also helps balance the strong flavors of the beef and broth. It creates a harmonious blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors, making each spoonful of sopas a delightful experience. Some people prefer to add the milk gradually, ensuring that the consistency remains smooth and not too thick. Others may use a combination of fresh milk and evaporated milk to achieve a lighter yet still creamy texture.

Perfect Occasions to Serve Minced Beef Sopas

Minced Beef Sopas is a versatile dish that can be served on various occasions. It is commonly enjoyed as a warm and comforting breakfast, especially during colder months when a hot bowl of soup is the perfect way to start the day. It is also a popular choice for merienda, or an afternoon snack, particularly when paired with pandesal (Filipino bread rolls) or crackers. During rainy days or when someone is feeling under the weather, sopas is often prepared as a go-to meal. The warmth of the broth, combined with the nutrients from the beef and vegetables, makes it an ideal dish to help soothe the body and provide energy. Many Filipino households also prepare sopas during family gatherings, birthday celebrations, and even holiday feasts, as it is an easy dish to cook in large batches and is loved by both kids and adults alike. Sopas is also a budget-friendly dish, as the ingredients are widely available and affordable.

How to Store and Reheat Minced Beef Sopas

Like most soups, minced beef sopas can be stored in the refrigerator for later consumption. However, since it contains milk, proper storage is important to maintain its quality and prevent spoilage. To store leftovers, allow the sopas to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating sopas, it is best to do so over low heat on the stovetop. Since the pasta tends to absorb more liquid when stored, you may need to add extra water or broth to bring back the original consistency. Stir the soup occasionally to prevent the milk from curdling. If using a microwave, reheat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Freezing sopas is not recommended due to the milk content, which can cause separation and alter the texture upon thawing. If you plan to make a larger batch, it is best to store the broth and macaroni separately, then combine and add the milk when ready to serve. This way, you can enjoy fresh-tasting sopas without worrying about the pasta becoming too mushy or the milk affecting the consistency.

Conclusion

Minced Beef Sopas is a delicious and comforting Filipino dish that offers a perfect balance of flavors and nutrients. Its rich and creamy broth, combined with the savory taste of ground beef and the hearty texture of macaroni, makes it a favorite meal for all ages. Whether enjoyed as breakfast, a snack, or a light dinner, sopas is guaranteed to bring warmth and satisfaction to every bowl. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also highly customizable, allowing each household to put its own twist on the classic recipe. From adding extra ingredients like hotdogs and ham to adjusting the creaminess with different types of milk, there are countless ways to enjoy this beloved soup.