Mexico: One Plate at a Time — Season 1, Episode 4: Sopes And Gorditas: Masa Appeal

Episode synopsis

Every culture has its small bites–sushi, dim sum, tapas, mezze. But in Mexico, these flavorful tidbits fall into a different kind of category: “antojitos,” the foods you crave. These are the snacks and street foods, as well as the special-occasion treats, that Mexicans love best–the stuff that comforts the soul and sets the heart racing. And the ones made with masa top the charts. Sopes, little masa shells, are baked on a griddle and finished with all kinds of flavorful toppings. We watch them being made in a courtyard restaurant in Mexico as Rick gives the “play-by-play,” then wander into the Uriarte pottery factory, where Rick indulges in his secret addiction: buying dishes. Back in his home kitchen, he makes Potato Sopes with Salsa, Goat Cheese and Fresh Herbs–perfect as an appetizer or party food. Then it’s back to Mexico for a lesson in gorditas–fried masa “pockets” stuffed with savory fillings.

About Mexico: One Plate at a Time

Rick Bayless, the beloved chef and restaurateur, seamlessly weaves together techniques, recipes, cultural musings and off-the-wall surprises. Throughout the series, Rick translates his Mexican travel adventures into unforgettable parties from intimate fireside suppers and casual backyard cocktails with friends to big, boisterous bashes for 25.

More episodes from Season 1

• E1The Whole Enchilada
• E2Let's Talk Tacos
• E3The Straight Cheese On Quesadillas
• E5Tacos From The Ground Up
• E6Ceviche In The Limelight
• E7Green Sauce And Tomatillos: Mexican Vine Dining
• E8A La Mexicana: The Soul Of Mexican Cooking
• E9Fruit, Aguas, Ices & Paletas: The Ripe Stuff
• E10Rice to the Occasion
• E11Caldo de Pollo & Tortilla Soup: The Super Bowl
• E12Chiles Rellenos and Other Cool Stuff
• E13Fish a la Veracruzana: How to Fish for Compliments