Caldo de Mariscos, or Mexican seafood broth, is a vibrant and flavorful soup that captures the essence of the coast. Imagine a comforting bowl brimming with succulent shrimp, tender clams, flaky fish, and a medley of aromatic vegetables, all simmered in a rich, savory broth. This isn't just a meal; it's an experience, a taste of Mexico's sun-drenched shores brought to your kitchen table. The symphony of seafood and spices dances on your palate, creating a culinary adventure that's both satisfying and refreshing. This authentic recipe avoids shortcuts, focusing on the fresh, high-quality ingredients crucial to achieving true Caldo de Mariscos perfection.
From the careful selection of seafood to the precise blending of spices, every step contributes to the final masterpiece. This delicious soup is more than just a recipe; it's a journey into the heart of Mexican cuisine. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure and create your own bowl of seaside delight? Let's dive into the step-by-step process and learn how to make this incredible Caldo de Mariscos.
Tools Needed
- Saucepan
- Blender
- Wooden Toothpick
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 4 large, chopped
- Carrots: 5, peeled and chopped
- Tomatoes: 5, chopped
- Onion: 1/4, chopped
- Dried Shrimp: 3
- Garlic: 6 cloves, minced
- Dried Shrimp with Tails: null
- Epazote: 1 sprig
- Shrimp Broth Cubes: 25 (or to taste)
- Salt: to taste
- Guajillo Chiles: 25
- Ancho Chiles: 3
- Shrimp: 1 kg, cleaned
- Crab: 1 kg, cleaned
- Clams: null, washed and soaked
- Mussels: 1 kg
- Octopus: null, cooked and chopped
- Fish Heads: null
- Sea Bass (or fish of choice): null, sliced
- Olive Oil: null
- Bay Leaf: null
- Thyme: null
- Marjoram: null
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Sauté
- Chop potatoes, carrots, tomatoes, and onion. Clean and soak clams and shrimp. Prepare chiles (remove seeds if desired). Cook octopus and chop into small pieces. Clean shrimp (remove digestive system using a toothpick as shown in the video).
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil and add dried shrimp tails and heads, then fresh shrimp heads. Fry until fragrant and shrimp change color. Add the chopped onion and fry until softened.
- In the same pot, heat olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant (approx 15 minutes). Add the chopped tomatoes and onions, and fry until softened.
Step 2. Simmer and Blend Chili Base
- Add guajillo and ancho chiles to the pan and fry until slightly softened and fragrant (approx. 10 minutes).
- Add water to the pan and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chilies are hydrated. Blend the chilis, shrimp heads, onion, and some of the cooking liquid until smooth.
Step 3. Combine and Cook Seafood
- Strain the blended chili mixture and add it to the pot. Add the carrots and potatoes and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil. Add the octopus (because it takes longer to cook).
- Add fish (heads and bones first, then fillets), bay leaf, thyme, marjoram, and dried shrimp. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add clams, mussels, and crabs and simmer for another 15 minutes.
- Add fish and shrimp during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. Season with shrimp broth cubes (or salt) to taste.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot, garnished with a squeeze of lime juice, and enjoy with bread or tortillas.
Read more: Creamy Caldo de Papa Recipe: Easy Mexican Potato Soup
Tips
- Clean shrimp properly by removing the digestive tract using a toothpick.
- Adjust the amount of shrimp broth cubes or salt to your preferred level of saltiness.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute ingredients in the 7 Seas Seafood Broth?
Yes! Feel free to swap out seafood based on preference and availability. However, maintaining a balance of shellfish and firm white fish is key to the flavour profile.
2. How do I store leftover 7 Seas Seafood Broth?
Allow to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Partially! You can prepare the broth base ahead, then add the seafood just before serving to ensure optimal texture and freshness.
This authentic 7 Seas Seafood Broth recipe delivers a taste of the Mexican coast, showcasing the vibrant flavors of fresh seafood and aromatic spices. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful soup as a satisfying meal or a delightful appetizer, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Now that you've mastered this recipe, feel free to experiment with your favorite seafood and spices to create your own unique variation!