Description
Mexican Sopa de Conchas is a comforting and flavorful shell pasta soup simmered with tomatoes, garlic, onion, and aromatic spices. This traditional Mexican dish offers a warm broth with lightly toasted pasta and a fresh touch of cilantro and lime, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup small shell pasta conchas
- 1/4 cup white onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium Roma tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional)
Instructions
- Toast the Pasta: Heat the vegetable oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the shell pasta and cook, stirring constantly, until it becomes lightly golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for 1 minute until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Incorporate the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste into the pot. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the tomatoes are slightly softened.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and stir well to combine. Add salt, ground cumin, and black pepper for seasoning.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to low. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 12 minutes until the pasta is tender and the broth has slightly thickened.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the soup from heat and stir in the fresh cilantro and lime juice if using. Serve the soup hot, enjoying its vibrant flavors.
Notes
- For a smoother broth texture, blend the tomatoes before adding them to the pot.
- This soup pairs exceptionally well with warm tortillas or a simple grilled cheese sandwich.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving to ensure optimal flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
