Caldo de Camarón (Mexican Shrimp Soup)

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Caldo de Camarón (Mexican Shrimp Soup)

Caldo de Camarón, or Mexican Shrimp Soup, is a warm, flavorful, and hearty dish with rich smoky broth, tender shrimp, and a medley of fresh vegetables. This classic Mexican comfort food is perfect for chilly evenings, but its bold, vibrant flavors make it a year-round favorite. The broth, infused with dried chiles, garlic, tomatoes, and fresh herbs, creates an unforgettable experience for your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Soup

  • 2 pounds shrimp (cleaned, tails-on)
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 3 guajillo peppers (de-seeded)
  • 1 pound chopped tomatoes
  • 1 small onion (chopped)
  • 2 potatoes (chopped)
  • ½ small cauliflower (broken into florets)
  • 2 carrots (chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves (peeled)
  • ¼ teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 2 sprigs epazote or 1 bunch fresh cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt (to taste)

For the Shrimp Broth (Optional but Recommended)

  • Shrimp shells and heads (from cleaned shrimp)
  • Vegetable scraps (like carrot, celery, onion)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Serving

  • Chopped fresh chilies
  • Chopped onion
  • Lime wedges
  • Fresh cilantro

Instructions

🍤 1. Make the Shrimp Broth (Optional but Flavorful)

Making your own shrimp broth adds an incredible depth of flavor to the soup. Here’s how:

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot.
  2. Add the vegetable scraps (like onion, carrot, celery) and sauté for 3 minutes.
  3. Add the shrimp shells and heads to the pot and cook for another 3 minutes, stirring to release their natural flavors.
  4. Pour in 8 cups of water and add 1 bay leaf and a pinch of salt.
  5. Bring the broth to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 25 minutes.
  6. Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve and set it aside. Discard the solids.

🌶️ 2. Make the Chili Sauce (The Heart of the Flavor)

This step builds the soup’s rich, spicy, and smoky flavor.

  1. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a pot.
  2. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic cloves for 4 minutes, stirring constantly.
  3. Add the dried guajillo peppers and cook for 2 minutes.
  4. Stir in the cumin seeds and peppercorns. Let them toast for about 10 seconds.
  5. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes.
  6. Pour in 1 cup of water, add the oregano and chipotle peppers, and simmer for 5 minutes.
  7. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
  8. Transfer the mixture to a blender. Add ½ cup of water and blend until thick and smooth.

🍲 3. Build the Soup

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large stockpot.
  2. Pour the blended chili sauce through a fine mesh sieve into the pot, pressing to extract every bit of liquid while discarding the solids.
  3. Simmer the sauce for 2 minutes to intensify the flavor.
  4. Add the diced vegetables (potatoes, cauliflower, and carrots), the prepared shrimp broth, and cilantro or epazote sprigs.
  5. Simmer the soup for 15 to 20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

🍤 4. Cook the Shrimp

  1. Add the cleaned shrimp to the soup pot.
  2. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.

🍋 5. Final Seasoning and Serve

  1. Taste the soup and add more salt if needed.
  2. Ladle the soup into large bowls, making sure to include shrimp and vegetables in each serving.
  3. Garnish with chopped onion, fresh cilantro, and chopped chilies for extra heat.
  4. Serve with fresh lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of brightness.

Serving Suggestions

Caldo de Camarón is traditionally served with a variety of garnishes to enhance the flavor and texture. Here’s how you can make it extra special:

  • Toppings: Chopped onion, cilantro, fresh chilies, or avocado slices.
  • Accompaniments: Serve with warm corn tortillas or crusty bread to dip into the flavorful broth.
  • Spice it Up: If you like heat, add extra chipotle peppers or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Authentic Mexican Flavor: The guajillo peppers, chipotle, and cumin bring layers of warmth and smokiness that are signature to Mexican cuisine.
  • Wholesome & Healthy: Packed with fresh vegetables, shrimp, and a nutrient-rich broth, it’s a wholesome, low-fat option for a family dinner.
  • Versatile & Customizable: Add zucchini, squash, or corn for variety, or make it as spicy (or mild) as you like.

Pro Tips for the Best Caldo de Camarón

  • Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh, high-quality shrimp make a huge difference in flavor. Keep the tails on for a more traditional presentation.
  • Don’t Skip the Homemade Broth: While store-bought broth works in a pinch, the homemade shrimp broth adds unmatched depth and flavor.
  • Prep Ahead: To save time, prepare the chili sauce and shrimp broth ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to 2 days.

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Thaw frozen shrimp before adding them to the soup. For best results, use wild-caught shrimp.

Q: What can I use instead of guajillo peppers?
If guajillo peppers are unavailable, you can substitute with New Mexico chiles or pasilla chiles for a similar smoky, mild flavor.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave. For best quality, avoid freezing, as the texture of shrimp can change.

Caldo de Camarón is a heartwarming, deeply flavorful dish that brings the authentic taste of Mexico straight to your table. It’s hearty, spicy, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re serving it on a rainy day or preparing it for a special family gathering, this soup will be a hit with everyone.

Enjoy this soul-warming dish, and don’t forget to squeeze that fresh lime juice on top for the perfect tangy finish! 🌶️🍤🍲

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