Kak'ik Soup (Sopa de Kak'ik)

Sopa de Kak'ik, also known as Kak'ik Soup, is a traditional Guatemalan dish with Mayan origins. This spicy turkey soup is flavored with a rich blend of herbs and spices, making it a comforting and flavorful meal.

Kak'ik Soup (Sopa de Kak'ik)

Ingredients

  • 1 whole turkey, cut into pieces
  • 8 cups water
  • 4 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 guajillo chilies, seeded and deveined
  • 2 tbsp achiote paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp black peppercorns
  • 4 whole allspice berries
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt to taste
  • 6 fresh mint leaves
  • 6 fresh cilantro sprigs
  • 6 fresh parsley sprigs
  • 6 fresh epazote leaves (optional)
  • 6 corn tortillas, cut into strips and fried (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, combine the turkey pieces and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
  2. Add the tomatoes, onions, garlic, guajillo chilies, achiote paste, oregano, cumin, peppercorns, allspice berries, bay leaves, and salt. Simmer for an additional 20 minutes.
  3. Remove the turkey pieces from the pot and shred the meat, discarding the bones. Return the shredded meat to the pot.
  4. Add the mint, cilantro, parsley, and epazote leaves. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. Adjust seasoning with salt, if needed.
  6. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fried tortilla strips.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
15g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Large pot Knife Cutting board Measuring spoons Measuring cups Wooden spoon

Tools

Potato masher (optional)

Serving suggestions

Sopa de Kak'ik is traditionally served with rice and warm corn tortillas on the side.

Tips & tricks

For an extra kick of heat, add a chopped habanero chili to the soup while simmering.

Cost

$20