Cuisines : Sopa de Caracol (Conch Soup) - A Honduran dish - How prepared

 

Sopa de Caracol is a hearty and flavorful Honduran soup made with conch meat, coconut milk, root vegetables, and spices. Known as one of the national dishes of Honduras, this soup perfectly blends Caribbean and Central American influences. The conch gives it a rich seafood flavor, while the coconut milk and vegetables create a creamy, comforting broth. It’s often enjoyed as a main meal, served hot with rice or fried plantains on the side.


 Ingredients

  • 500 g (about 1 lb) conch meat (cleaned and chopped into bite-sized pieces)
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (for tenderizing the conch)
  • 2 tablespoons oil or butter
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 medium green bananas or plantains, peeled and sliced
  • 2 medium yuca (cassava) roots, peeled and cubed
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 cups coconut milk (fresh or canned)
  • 3 cups fish or chicken stock
  • 1 sprig cilantro (fresh coriander)
  • 1 teaspoon annatto or paprika (for color)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper (for a spicy kick)

 How to Prepare

Step 1: Prepare the Conch

  1. Clean the conch thoroughly and cut into bite-sized chunks.
  2. Soak in lime juice and water for 15–20 minutes to tenderize.
  3. Rinse well and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

  1. In a large pot, heat oil or butter over medium heat.
  2. Sauté onion, bell pepper, garlic, and tomatoes until soft and fragrant.
  3. Add cumin, annatto (or paprika), salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

  1. Add cassava, potatoes, and green banana/plantain. Stir to coat in spices.
  2. Pour in fish or chicken stock, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Add Coconut Milk & Conch

  1. Stir in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle boil.
  2. Add the prepared conch pieces and simmer for another 10–15 minutes, or until tender. (Do not overcook conch as it can become rubbery.)

Step 5: Finish the Soup

  1. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  2. Add cilantro and optional chili pepper for extra flavor.
  3. Simmer for 2–3 more minutes and remove from heat.

 Serving Suggestion

Serve hot in deep bowls with a side of white rice, lime wedges, and fried plantains. Garnish with fresh cilantro or avocado slices if desired.



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