Sopa de Mariscos Costarricense
A rich and flavorful seafood soup, typical of Costa Rica's coastal regions. It features a medley of fresh seafood in a savory broth, often enhanced with vegetables and a hint of spice.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, squid, fish)(cleaned and prepared)
- 500 g Fish heads or fish bones(for broth)
- 2 liters Water
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 stalks Celery stalks(chopped)
- 1 large Sweet pepper (bell pepper)(chopped)
- 4 large Ripe tomatoes(blended)
- 2 medium Potatoes(peeled and cubed)
- 2 medium Carrots(peeled and sliced)
- 1 green Plantains(peeled and sliced)
- 1/2 bunch Cilantro(chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Oregano(dried)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the fish broth: In a large pot, combine fish heads/bones with 2 liters of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Strain the broth and set aside.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 2
In the same pot (or a clean one), heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped celery, and chopped sweet pepper until softened.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Add the blended tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 4
Pour in the reserved fish broth. Add the cubed potatoes, sliced carrots, and sliced green plantains. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are tender.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 5
Add the mixed seafood to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and the mussels have opened.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 6
Stir in the chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the tomatoes.
- ✓Ensure all seafood is fresh for the best flavor.
- ✓You can substitute fish broth for homemade fish broth if short on time.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like chayote or yuca.
- Include a splash of white wine for added depth of flavor.