If you want to try something unique and delicious from the Caribbean, then Sopa de Caracol is a perfect choice. Originating in Honduras, it is a classic dish made with conch (a type of mollusk), vegetables, spices, and coconut milk. It’s flavorful, hearty, and will leave you wanting more!
In this article, we’ll share the sopa de caracol recipe, and explore everything you need to know about this popular soup, including its taste, ingredients, and how to make it. So let’s dive in and explore the deliciousness of Sopa de Caracol!
What is Sopa de Caracol?
Sopa de Caracol is a traditional Honduran soup made with conch, vegetables, spices, and coconut milk. It’s a hearty dish that is perfect for cold winter nights or as a comforting bowl of goodness anytime you need it.
The key ingredient in this dish is the conch (or caracol in Spanish), which has a unique flavor and texture that makes it stand out from other soups.
What does it taste like?
Sopa de Caracol has a unique flavor with sweet and savory notes. The conch has a slightly chewy texture and comes together with the coconut milk, vegetables, and spices to make a delicious soup that will leave you wanting more. It’s comforting, flavorful, and perfect for any time of the year.
How did I first get introduced to the Sopa de Caracol?
I was first introduced to Sopa de Caracol when I visited Honduras on vacation with my family. We were looking for something a bit different from what we typically ate back home and my aunt suggested this delicious soup. After trying it once, I was hooked!
How to make Sopa de Caracol?
Making Sopa de Caracol is quite easy and straightforward. The recipe requires simple ingredients that can be easily found in most Latin American supermarkets. Here are the steps for making delicious Sopa de Caracol:
Ingredients
- 2 lb conch
- 3 green bananas
- 3 carrots
- 2 (14 oz.) cans of coconut milk
- 2 lb cassava
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 small green bell pepper
- 2 green hot peppers
- 2 cubes chicken consommé
- 2 large white onions
- ½ bunch cilantro
- ½ bunch of Chinese cilantro
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup water
- 5 tablespoons margarine
- 2 tablespoons achiote oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Step by step instructions
Step 1
Clean the conch by peeling off the tough outer layer and cutting away any fat. Place the cleaned conch in a bowl and cover it with water.
Step 2
Peel and finely chop the green bananas, carrots, garlic, bell pepper, hot peppers, onions, cilantro, and Chinese cilantro. Set aside.
Step 3
In a large pot, melt the margarine and sauté the chopped vegetables for about 5 minutes. Add the conch to the pot and pour in the coconut milk. Fill with enough water to cover everything and bring to a boil.
Step 4
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes. Add the chicken consommé, milk, water, and achiote oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
Step 5
Serve hot with your favorite accompaniments, such as rice or plantain chips.
Tips
• If you’re not a fan of conch, feel free to substitute it with any other type of seafood such as shrimp or lobster.
• If you don’t have access to achiote oil, you can use turmeric powder instead.
• For an even creamier texture, add more coconut milk or cream before serving.
• For a spicier version, feel free to add more hot peppers or even jalapeños.
Sopa De Caracol Recipe
Equipment
- pot
Ingredients
- 1 pound of cassava a starchy root vegetable, also known as yuca, that brings a hearty and substantial element to your dish, offering a mild and nutty flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
- 1/2 small green bell pepper crisp and refreshing, providing a mild and slightly tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients, adding a pop of color and a subtle hint of freshness.
- 1.5 carrots crisp and vibrant, providing a subtle sweetness and a pop of color to your dish, adding both flavor and visual appeal.
- 1 can 14 oz. of coconut milk, a creamy and luscious ingredient that lends a rich and velvety texture to your recipe, infusing it with a tropical and indulgent essence.
- 1.5 cloves of garlic aromatic and pungent, adding depth and complexity to the dish, infusing it with a savory and irresistible aroma.
- 1 green hot pepper adding a spicy kick and a burst of heat to your dish, balancing out the flavors and adding a touch of excitement.
- 1 pound of conch a tender and flavorful seafood delicacy known for its sweet and slightly briny taste, adding a touch of oceanic goodness to your dish.
- 1 cube of chicken consommé a concentrated flavor enhancer that adds depth and richness to your dish, intensifying the savory notes and contributing to a well-rounded taste profile.
- Pepper adding a touch of warmth and a hint of spiciness to your recipe, elevating the overall flavor profile and creating a harmonious blend of tastes.
- 1/4 bunch of cilantro vibrant and herbaceous, adding a fresh and bright element to your dish, infusing it with a burst of fragrance and a hint of citrus-like notes.
- 1/4 bunch of Chinese cilantro also known as culantro, with its distinct and robust flavor, adding a unique and earthy taste to your recipe, enhancing the overall aromatic profile.
- 1/2 cup of milk adding a creamy and smooth texture to your dish, enriching the flavors and creating a luxurious mouthfeel.
- 1/2 cup of water providing moisture and helping to create the desired consistency of your dish, ensuring a balanced and satisfying result.
- 2.5 tablespoons of margarine a buttery and spreadable fat that adds richness and depth to your dish, contributing to a velvety and indulgent finish.
- 2 tablespoons of achiote oil a vibrant and flavorful oil made from annatto seeds, infusing your dish with a deep red hue and a subtle earthy and peppery taste.
- 1.5 green bananas unripe and firm, offering a starchy and slightly tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients, contributing to a unique and satisfying texture.
- 1 large white onion providing a sweet and aromatic base for your dish, imparting a mellow and savory flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Salt enhancing the flavors and bringing out the natural taste of the ingredients, ensuring a well-seasoned and balanced dish.
Instructions
- Clean the conch by peeling off the tough outer layer and cutting away any fat. Place the cleaned conch in a bowl and cover it with water.
- Peel and finely chop the green bananas, carrots, garlic, bell pepper, hot peppers, onions, cilantro, and Chinese cilantro. Set aside.
- In a large pot, melt the margarine and sauté the chopped vegetables for about 5 minutes. Add the conch to the pot and pour in the coconut milk. Fill with enough water to cover everything and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes. Add the chicken consommé, milk, water, and achiote oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
- Serve hot with your favorite accompaniments, such as rice or plantain chips.
Notes
Nutrition Information
One serving of Sopa de Caracol contains approximately 215 calories and is rich in protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals such as magnesium, zinc, calcium, and iron. It’s also low in fat and sodium.
What to serve with Sopa de Caracol?
Sopa de Caracol can be enjoyed on its own or paired with accompaniments such as rice, plantain chips, or boiled yucca. It also tastes great when served with a side of avocado slices and freshly made tortillas.
How to store leftover Sopa de Caracol?
Leftover Sopa de Caracol can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to transfer it into an airtight container before refrigerating. When ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can safely enjoy Sopa de Caracol as long as they follow all food safety precautions such as ensuring that the conch is cooked thoroughly and washing all produce before eating it.
FAQs
Can I freeze Sopa de Caracol?
Yes, you can freeze Sopa de Caracol for up to 2 months. It’s best to transfer it into an airtight container before freezing. When ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
Can I use other types of seafood instead of conch?
Yes, you can use any type of seafood, such as shrimp or lobster.
Is Sopa de Caracol healthy?
Yes, Sopa de Caracol is a nutritious dish that provides many vitamins and minerals as well as being relatively low in fat and sodium. However, it is important to practice moderation when eating it.
Wrapping Up
Sopa de Caracol is a delicious and nutritious Honduran soup made with conch, vegetables, coconut milk, and spices. It’s easy to make and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with accompaniments such as rice or plantain chips. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
This traditional Honduran dish is sure to become a favorite in your home! Its savory flavors, creamy texture, and nutritious ingredients make it the perfect meal to make any night special.
Give it a try today and discover why Sopa de Caracol is a fan favorite! Please share this recipe with others so they can enjoy it too! Thank you.
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more