Sopa Criolla Recipe: Traditional Peruvian Creole Soup

A highly popular soup, Peruvian Sopa Criolla is a traditional beef-based noodle soup that’s both hearty and full of delicious flavour.

Loved in homes across the country, this rich noodle soup is easy to prepare, bringing the taste of Peruvian comfort food right to your kitchen.

What is Sopa Criolla?

Sopa Criolla, or “Creole Soup,” is one of Peru’s most beloved broths, and for good reason! Combining tender pieces of beef with thin noodles, this soup uses native chili peppers, such as ají panca and ají amarillo, along with a variety of herbs and spices, creating a complex, savory depth. A dash of milk or cream gives the broth a velvety texture, while a poached or fried egg on top adds an extra layer of richness.

What Does Creole Soup Mean?

Like many Peruvian dishes, Sopa Criolla reflects Peru’s rich culinary fusion. The term “criolla” references the Creole influence, blending Spanish, African, Indigenous, and even Asian culinary traditions in a uniquely Peruvian way. This dish is influenced by Spanish cuisine, where beef-based soups are common, yet it has been transformed with local ingredients like ají peppers, which add a special depth to the broth.

Today, Sopa Criolla is enjoyed across Peru, served in homes and restaurants nationwide, standing as a testament to the country’s culinary heritage.

How to make Peruvian Sopa Criolla

Follow these steps to make your own delicious Sopa Criolla:

1. Prepare the Base: In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until soft. Add the tomato paste, ají amarillo paste, and ají panca paste, stirring to combine.
   

2. Add the Beef: Slice the beef into thin strips and season with salt, pepper, and cumin. Add it to the pot, browning it on all sides.
   

3. Pour in the Broth: Add the beef stock (or water), stirring well. Bring the soup to a simmer, letting it cook so the flavours meld together.
   

4. Cook the Noodles: Add the noodles (such as cabello de ángel or spaghetti) to the pot and cook until tender.
   

5. Add Evaporated Milk: Stir in a splash of evaporated milk for a creamy texture.
   

6. Serve and Garnish: Crack the eggs into the soup and let them poach. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired, and enjoy!

Peruvian Sopa Criolla Recipe

If you’d prefer a visual guide, watch the video below to see how to make Sopa Criolla step-by-step.

Sopa Criolla Ingredients

• 300 gr of beef

• 1 1/2 onions

• 4 cloves of garlic

• 1 1/2 tablespoons of tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon of aji amarillo

• 1 tablespoon of aji panca

• 1 litre of beef stock or water

• A dish of evaporated milk

• Salt, pepper, cumin and oregano to taste

• 60 gr of noodles / spaghetti

• 2 eggs