Sopaipillas are fried bread rolls that are sometimes described as a fritter.
Though somewhat similar to Fry Bread, they are somewhat lighter, and not doughy. Instead, they are crisp, and puff up, forming a pocket inside them that can be stuffed with refried beans, cheese, meat, etc.
Some recipes use baking powder, some use yeast as the leavener.
You roll their dough as thinly as possible, then cut it in 3 inch (7.5 cm) squares, then fry.
Sopaipillas are more likely to be served as a bread in a basket in New Mexico. Elsewhere, they are more likely to be served with honey as a dessert.
Storage Hints
Sopaipillas can be frozen. Reheat in a moderate oven for around 5 minutes, turning once. The texture will not survive re-heating in a microwave.
Language Notes
“Sopaipa” means “honey cake” in Spanish. Also called “Sopaipillas de Levadura” (“Yeast Puffed Bread”.)