Sopa de Caracol
Sopa de Caracol, or conch soup, is a signature dish of Honduras's coastal regions. Made with tender conch meat, coconut milk, yucca, plantains, and spices, it delivers a creamy, tropical flavor with a hint of spice. This dish is a culinary symbol of the country, often served during special occasions and celebrated in traditional songs.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 lbs Conch meat(cleaned and tenderized, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 4 cups Coconut milk(preferably fresh)
- 4 cups Water or fish stock
- 2 large Green plantains(peeled and sliced into rounds)
- 1 large Potato(peeled and cubed)
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 1 large Bell pepper(diced (red or green for color))
- 2 minced Garlic cloves
- 0.5 bunch Cilantro(chopped, reserve some for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Ground achiote (annatto)
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon Salt(adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 juiced Limes
- 1 optional Hot pepper(habanero or chili, for spice)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3–5 minutes.
- 2
Add the achiote, cumin, salt, and black pepper, stirring to coat the aromatics in the spices. Add the tenderized conch to the pot and sauté for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- 3
Pour in the coconut milk and water (or fish stock) and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the green plantain slices and potato cubes to the pot. Stir gently to ensure they are submerged in the liquid.
- 4
If using a hot pepper, add it now. Bring to a simmer and let the soup cook for about 30-45 minutes, or until the plantains and potatoes are tender.
- 5
Squeeze the juice of two limes into the soup for a bright, tangy contrast to the creamy coconut broth. Stir in most of the chopped cilantro, reserving some for garnish. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, letting all the flavors blend beautifully.
- 6
Remove the hot pepper (if used) before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has a mix of conch, plantains, and potatoes. Garnish with the reserved cilantro and serve hot with lime wedges on the side.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use fresh coconut milk if possible.
- ✓Do not overcook the conch meat, as it can become tough.
- ✓Serve with fresh corn tortillas or white rice.
🔄 Variations
- Some recipes include yuca (cassava) for added heartiness.
- A splash of achiote oil can be added for color.