Mariscos Soup, or Sopa de Mariscos, is a quintessential dish in many coastal regions of Latin America, particularly in Mexico. The soup combines a delightful medley of seafood, like shrimp, fish, and sometimes even shellfish, with a savory broth, spiced to perfection. The combination of briny, sweet seafood and rich, well-seasoned broth makes for an irresistible dish that feels both luxurious and comforting. Mariscos Soup can be as simple or complex as you want, depending on the ingredients and spices you use. It’s perfect for a special family meal, a romantic dinner, or simply as a treat on a chilly evening.
What makes this soup so extraordinary is the ability to adjust it to your taste preferences. You can go light and zesty or full-on hearty, with a rich broth and a variety of seafood. It’s a flexible recipe that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
Mariscos Soup Recipe
Mariscos Soup is all about balancing the fresh flavors of seafood with the deep umami of tomatoes, spices, and herbs. The recipe below will guide you through creating this dish step by step.
Ingredients Needed
To make a rich, flavorful Mariscos Soup, you’ll need a selection of fresh ingredients. Here’s the list:
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Seafood (approx. 2 pounds, a mix of):
- Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Fish fillets (firm white fish like tilapia, cod, or snapper)
- Clams or mussels (optional, but they add a lovely briny flavor)
- Scallops (optional for extra richness)
- Tomatoes (4 medium-sized, diced)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Onion (1 large, finely chopped)
- Bell peppers (2, chopped – red, green, or a mix)
- Carrots (2 medium, peeled and sliced thinly)
- Potatoes (2, peeled and diced into bite-sized cubes)
- Cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped)
- Lime (juice of 2 limes)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Fish stock or clam juice (4 cups – a rich broth for depth of flavor)
- Chicken broth (2 cups)
- Cumin (1 teaspoon)
- Paprika (1 teaspoon)
- Bay leaves (2)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Chili flakes (optional, if you like a little heat)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a delicious Mariscos Soup:
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Prepare The Seafood
- Start by prepping your seafood. Peel and devein the shrimp. If you’re using fish fillets, cut them into bite-sized chunks. If you’re adding shellfish like clams or mussels, scrub them clean and set aside.
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Sauté The Base
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, until they’re softened and fragrant.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring to ensure it doesn’t burn.
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Add Tomatoes And Broth
- Toss in the diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, and bay leaves. Stir everything together and let the tomatoes cook down for about 5 minutes. They’ll release their juices and start to break apart.
- Pour in the fish stock, chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
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Simmer The Vegetables
- Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. Let everything simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still holding their shape.
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Cook The Seafood
- Once the vegetables are ready, add the seafood. Start with the fish fillets (if using), as they’ll need a bit more time to cook. Let them simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
- Then add the shrimp, clams, mussels, and scallops (if using), and let everything cook together for another 5-10 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and the shellfish has opened up.
- Discard any unopened shellfish.
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Finishing Touches
- Stir in the fresh cilantro and the juice of two limes. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes to taste. Let the soup sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color. Serve hot with a wedge of lime on the side.
Ingredient Insights
- Seafood Selection: The beauty of Mariscos Soup lies in the variety of seafood used. Shrimp, fish, clams, and scallops all add different textures and flavors. Shrimp gives a delicate sweetness, while the fish fillets provide a soft, meaty bite. Clams and mussels bring a briny, oceanic flavor to the soup.
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes are the backbone of the broth, providing acidity and balance. They also act as a natural thickener when they break down during cooking.
- Cilantro and Lime: These ingredients brighten the soup and give it that signature fresh, zesty taste. The cilantro brings a citrusy, herbaceous note, while the lime adds a tangy punch.
- Broths: Using both fish stock and chicken broth creates a richer base for the soup, combining the savory depth of chicken with the briny, umami-rich flavor of seafood. If you don’t have access to fish stock, clam juice is a great alternative.
Expert Tips
- Fresh vs. Frozen Seafood: Fresh seafood is always preferred, but frozen seafood can work just as well if you’re in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw it properly before adding it to the soup.
- Low and Slow: Cooking the soup on a gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld together without toughening the seafood. Avoid a rolling boil, as it can make the shrimp and fish overcooked and rubbery.
- Customize the Heat: If you like a spicier soup, you can add a sliced jalapeño or a tablespoon of chipotle peppers in adobo. Alternatively, go easy on the chili flakes if you prefer a mild version.
- Add Wine: For an extra layer of depth, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the vegetables. It pairs beautifully with the seafood and enhances the broth.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetable Additions: While carrots and potatoes are classic, you can also add zucchini, corn, or even some fresh green beans for extra texture.
- Herb Variations: If cilantro isn’t your thing, swap it for fresh parsley or even basil for a different herbal note.
- Creamy Version: For a creamier take on Mariscos Soup, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking. This will create a more luxurious texture and mellow out the acidity.
- Broth Adjustments: If you want a more intense seafood flavor, use all fish stock or add a bit of seafood bouillon. For a lighter soup, stick to chicken broth or vegetable stock.
Final Words
Making Mariscos Soup is a fun and rewarding process. The beauty of this dish is that it combines simplicity with complexity in the flavors. The fresh seafood brings brightness, the vegetables add body, and the broth ties everything together. It’s a great recipe to experiment with and adapt to your personal tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich, hearty version or something light and refreshing, Mariscos Soup is always a winner.
FAQs
What Is Mariscos Soup?
Mariscos soup is a flavorful Mexican seafood soup made with a variety of shellfish and fish, typically including shrimp, crab, mussels, and clams, cooked in a rich tomato-based broth with vegetables and seasonings. It’s a popular dish along coastal regions of Mexico.
What Ingredients Do I Need For Mariscos Soup?
Essential ingredients for mariscos soup include shrimp, crab, mussels, clams, fish fillets (such as tilapia or red snapper), tomatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, celery, cilantro, and lime. It’s seasoned with chili peppers, bay leaves, and cumin for flavor.
Can I Use Frozen Seafood For Mariscos Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen seafood for mariscos soup. Just ensure the seafood is properly thawed before adding it to the broth to ensure even cooking. Fresh seafood, however, will provide a more vibrant and flavorful result.
How Spicy Is Mariscos Soup?
The spiciness of mariscos soup can be adjusted to taste. Traditional recipes often use mild chilies such as poblano or pasilla, but you can increase the heat by adding more chili varieties like serrano or jalapeño, depending on your preference.
What Type Of Broth Is Used In Mariscos Soup?
The broth for mariscos soup is typically a tomato-based broth enriched with seafood stock or water. The combination of sautéed garlic, onions, and tomato creates a savory, aromatic base for the seafood to simmer in.
Can Mariscos Soup Be Made Without Alcohol?
Yes, mariscos soup can be made without alcohol. Some recipes include a splash of beer or white wine for added depth, but these can be easily omitted or substituted with a bit of extra seafood stock or water for a non-alcoholic version.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Mariscos Soup?
Mariscos soup typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes to prepare, depending on the type and size of seafood used. Seafood cooks relatively quickly, so the soup should be simmered just long enough to allow the flavors to meld without overcooking the seafood.
What Sides Can I Serve With Mariscos Soup?
Mariscos soup pairs well with crusty bread, warm tortillas, or a side of Mexican rice. It is also common to serve it with lime wedges and fresh cilantro for added flavor. You can also offer avocado slices or a simple green salad.
Can I Make Mariscos Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, mariscos soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often improve after sitting for a few hours or overnight. If storing leftovers, be sure to refrigerate the soup and reheat gently to avoid overcooking the seafood.
Is Mariscos Soup Gluten-free?
Yes, mariscos soup is naturally gluten-free as it contains seafood, vegetables, and seasonings without any wheat-based products. However, always double-check any pre-made ingredients like broth or seasonings to ensure they are gluten-free.