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Wholesome Mexican Sopa de Conchas

Wholesome Mexican Sopa de Conchas for Cozy Family Nights

This wholesome Mexican Sopa de Conchas is a comforting meal bursting with flavors, perfect for cozy family nights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Soup Base
  • 8 oz Small Pasta Shells (conchas) Substitute with elbow macaroni or small star pasta (estrellitas).
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil Substitute with olive oil for a richer taste.
  • 1 medium Onion Use shallots for a milder alternative.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 medium Carrot Substitute with peas or bell peppers for variations.
  • 1 medium Zucchini Can be replaced with spinach or green beans.
  • 4 cups Vegetable Broth Use chicken broth for non-vegetarian versions.
  • 2 cups Water No direct substitution necessary.
  • 1 can Tomatoes (blended or finely chopped) Canned tomatoes may be an alternative.
Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin Substitute with coriander for a different flavor profile.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • to taste Salt & Pepper Essential for seasoning.
Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Substitute with parsley or epazote if preferred.
  • 2 wedge Lime Lemon can be used as an alternative.

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the small pasta shells (conchas) and stir frequently for about 3-5 minutes, until they turn golden brown and emit a delicious nutty aroma.
  2. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Sauté them for about 2 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
  3. Stir in 1 diced carrot and 1 diced zucchini, cooking them for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
  4. Pour in 1 can of blended or finely chopped tomatoes, and let the mixture cook for about 5 minutes.
  5. Carefully add 4 cups of vegetable broth and 2 cups of water. Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes.
  6. Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as desired. Ladle the soup into bowls, then garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 8gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 500mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 6gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This delightful soup is perfect for customization according to seasonal ingredients and family preferences. Ensure to store leftovers properly to maintain texture and flavor.

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