Description
Mexican Sopa de Conchas is a hearty and comforting pasta soup featuring conch-shaped pasta simmered in a flavorful broth with tomatoes, cumin, and oregano. This traditional dish can be enjoyed with shredded chicken and corn, topped with cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime, or adapted as a vegetarian option.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 2 cups conch-shaped pasta (conchas)
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- 0.5 cup corn kernels
- 0.5 cup shredded cheese for topping
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, canned diced tomatoes, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer the soup: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together harmoniously.
- Cook pasta and optional ingredients: Add the conch-shaped pasta to the simmering soup, cooking according to the package instructions until al dente. During the last 3 to 4 minutes of cooking, if desired, stir in the cooked shredded chicken and corn kernels to heat through.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Adding diced avocado or a dollop of sour cream to the bowl will provide extra richness and creaminess.
- Adjust salt to taste, especially if using broth that is already salted.
- This soup can be made spicier by adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of chili powder if desired.
