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Few dishes like Caldo de Mariscos capture Mexican cuisine’s heart and soul. A delicious and warming Mexican seafood soup, this dish is bursting with bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and a comforting aroma that transports you straight to coastal towns. Whether you want to impress dinner guests or prepare a hearty meal for your family, this recipe is your guide.
Here, you’ll learn how to cook an authentic caldo de marisco while discovering its versatile variations, expert tips, and serving suggestions. Get ready to bring the taste of coastal Mexico into your kitchen!
Introduction
Author Notes
Imagine sitting with your family, a steaming bowl of sopa de mariscos in front of you, its aroma filling the room with hints of chiles, lime, and the ocean’s bounty. This dish has always been more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming memory of sharing stories and flavours with loved ones. What makes it even better? The simplicity of bringing it to life in your own home.
Key Takeaways
- Perfect for seafood lovers, this recipe features a medley of fresh seafood in a rich and flavour-packed broth.
- Easy to customise with your choice of ingredients and spice levels.
- A one-pot wonder, ideal for special occasions or cosy meals at home.
Caldo de Mariscos Recipe Details
Ingredients with Amounts
Here’s everything you’ll need to make your own caldo de marisco for 4–6 servings:
- 500 g white fish fillets (cut into chunks)
- 300 g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 300 g mussels or clams (cleaned thoroughly)
- 200 g squid rings (optional)
- 2 medium tomatoes, blended
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 zucchini, diced (optional)
- 3 dried guajillo chiles, soaked and blended
- 8 cups fish stock or water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 lime, sliced into wedges
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the perfect caldo de mariscos recipe:
Step 1: Prepare the base
Warm some olive oil in a large pot set over medium heat until it’s ready for cooking. Cook the diced onion and minced garlic in the pot, stirring frequently, until they become soft, translucent, and aromatic. Add blended tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, mix in the guajillo chile paste, cooking until the flavours meld.
Step 2: Build the broth
Pour in the fish stock or water and stir well. Add potatoes, carrots, bay leaves, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Add the seafood
Gradually layer the fish, shrimp, mussels, and squid on the simmering broth. Cover the pot and allow the seafood to cook gently for 5–7 minutes or until fully cooked.
Step 4: Finishing touches
Adjust seasoning to taste with salt and pepper. Add zucchini in the last few minutes if using. Take the pot off the heat, carefully remove the bay leaves, and discard them to avoid any bitterness in the dish.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Top the dish with freshly chopped cilantro and present it alongside lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor. Pair with warm tortillas or crusty bread for the ultimate experience.
Preparation & Cooking Times, Servings, and Yield
| Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins | Total Time: 40 mins |
| Servings: 4–6 hearty bowls | Yield: 1 large pot of Sopa de Mariscos |
Cooking Tips
Cook’s Note
For deeper flavour, roast the chiles and tomatoes before blending. This step adds a smoky depth that elevates the broth.
Variations/Substitutions
- Seafood Swap: Swap any seafood based on availability—lobster, octopus, or crab can be fantastic additions.
- Spice Level: Add a diced serrano or jalapeño pepper to the base if you enjoy the heat. Do you prefer it milder? Reduce the guajillo chiles.
- Vegetable Boost: Add corn cobs or green beans to give this dish a comforting twist.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Cutting board and knife
- Blender
- Ladle for serving
Nutrition & Serving
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| 250 | 7g | 15g | 28g |
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
| 3g | 420mg | ||
| Fiber | Sodium |
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Mexican seafood soup with warm corn tortillas or a slice of fresh sourdough bread for dipping.
- Add a drizzle of hot sauce or fresh salsa for the spice lovers in your family.
- Serve as a starter for a Mexican-themed dinner or a hearty main dish for a cozy night in.
Final Thoughts
Personal Touch
Every home cook breathes a little of their personality into this dish. Maybe you’ll add a favourite spice that reminds you of your childhood or an unconventional vegetable that gives it a modern twist. You might even experiment with the type of seafood, from classic shrimp and mussels to something more adventurous like crab or squid. The beauty of sopa de mariscos lies in its versatility, allowing you to make it your own. Whatever your special touch, this hearty, flavorful soup is sure to become a family favourite, one they’ll request time and time again for its comforting, homemade goodness.
Conclusion
Sopa de mariscos isn’t just another soup; it’s a bowl of comfort infused with culture, tradition, and the rich flavours of the sea. It celebrates Mexican cuisine and is packed with fresh seafood, hearty vegetables, and aromatic spices. As it simmers, it fills your home with inviting aromas that call everyone to the table for an authentic and heartwarming experience. By making caldo de marisco, you’re enjoying a delicious dish and honouring the vibrant culinary heritage of Mexico while creating special memories to share with family and friends.
FAQ
How long does sopa de mariscos last in the fridge?
Transfer any leftover soup into a sealed, airtight container and refrigerate it, ensuring it stays fresh for up to three days. Reheat gently over medium heat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this seafood soup?
Yes, you can freeze sopa de mariscos for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool down entirely before placing it into a container that is safe for freezing. Allow the frozen soup to defrost overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Can I use frozen seafood?
Absolutely! Frozen seafood works just as well—just ensure it’s defrosted and drained before cooking.
Is caldo de mariscos spicy?
It depends! The spice level is easily adjusted by adding or reducing the chiles used in the recipe.
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