Dive into the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with Honduras Sopa de Caracol, a tantalizing seafood soup celebrated for its rich blend of indigenous ingredients and coastal influences. This traditional dish features a hearty broth infused with succulent conch meat, aromatic spices, and tropical vegetables, creating a symphony of taste and texture. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal on a breezy evening or a festive centerpiece at gatherings, this iconic Honduran delicacy promises a culinary journey brimming with warmth and culinary heritage.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb conch meat, cleaned and diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 4 cups fish or seafood broth
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: hot sauce or chili flakes for added heat

Instructions:

1- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent and fragrant.

2- Add diced red and green bell peppers, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.

3- Stir in diced tomatoes, carrots, and corn kernels, cook for an additional 5 minutes.

4- Add diced conch meat to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly opaque.

5- Pour in fish or seafood broth and coconut milk, stirring well to combine. Bring the soup to a simmer.

6- Season with salt, pepper, and optional hot sauce or chili flakes according to your preference.

7- Let the soup simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the conch meat to become tender.

8- Just before serving, stir in fresh cilantro, parsley, and lime juice for a burst of freshness.

9- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Honduras Sopa de Caracol, a comforting and flavorful taste of the Caribbean!

Nutritional Values :

1 lb conch meat:

• Calories: 340
• Protein: 67g
• Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• High in protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Low in fat and carbohydrates, making it a lean protein source.
• Good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, iron, and selenium.

1 onion (medium):

• Calories: 44
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits

• Rich in antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
• Contains prebiotic fibers that promote gut health.
• May help reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels.

3 cloves garlic:

• Calories: 13
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits

• Contains compounds with potential health benefits, including allicin, which has antibacterial and antiviral properties.
• May help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• May boost the immune system and reduce the risk of certain diseases.

1 red bell pepper:

• Calories: 37
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 3g

benefits

• Excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and collagen production.
• Rich in antioxidants that may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Contains vitamin A, which is important for vision health.

1 green bell pepper:

• Calories: 30
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 3g

benefits

• Good source of vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health.
• Contains antioxidants that help protect against cell damage.
• Low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a healthy addition to meals.

2 tomatoes:

• Calories: 44
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g

benefits

• Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that may reduce the risk of certain cancers and promote heart health.
• Good source of vitamin C, potassium, and folate.
• May help lower blood pressure and improve skin health.

2 carrots:

• Calories: 50
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 4g

benefits

• Excellent source of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body and important for vision health.
• High in fiber, which supports digestive health and may help lower cholesterol levels.
• Contains antioxidants that may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

1 cup corn kernels:

• Calories: 132
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 3g

benefits

• Good source of fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Contains antioxidants that may protect against eye diseases.
• Provides energy-boosting carbohydrates and a small amount of protein.

1 cup coconut milk:

• Calories: 445
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 48g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits

• Rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are a type of healthy fat that may promote weight loss and improve brain function.
• Contains lauric acid, which has antibacterial and antiviral properties.
• May help improve heart health and boost immunity.

Nutritional values may vary slightly depending on specific brands and cooking methods. It's important to note that these values are approximate and may not be entirely accurate, but they provide a general idea of the nutritional content of the ingredients used in Honduras Sopa de Caracol.