Name: Mexican Sopa de Conchas Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 14 oz chopped tomatoes; 1/2 onion; 4 1/2 cups vegetable stock; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh coriander or cilantro, for garnish; 9 oz shell pasta; Olive oil, for toasting the pasta

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Mexican Sopa de Conchas is a comforting and flavorful soup featuring golden toasted shell pasta in a rich tomato and onion broth. This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for a cozy meal that highlights fresh ingredients and traditional Mexican flavors.

A close-up view of a brown bowl filled with a tomato-based soup containing small shell pasta. The soup has an orange-red color and a slightly oily surface with chopped green herbs sprinkled throughout. The shell pasta is light yellow with ridges and is fully submerged in the soup except for some on top. A metal spoon with a reflective surface lies inside the bowl on the right side, partially immersed in the soup. The bowl sits on a green cloth napkin placed on a white marbled surface with a colorful decorative object blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

14 oz chopped tomatoes
9 oz shell pasta
1/2 onion
4 1/2 cups vegetable stock
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh coriander or cilantro, for garnish
Olive oil (for toasting the pasta)

Instructions

Step 1: If using fresh tomatoes, roughly chop them. Chop the onion into pieces suitable for blending.
Step 2: Place the chopped tomatoes and onion into a food processor and blend until you achieve a smooth, sauce-like texture.
Step 3: Heat some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the shell pasta and cook, stirring frequently, until the pasta turns a golden brown color. Be careful not to burn it, as this will give your soup a bitter taste.
Step 4: Once the pasta is golden, pour in the blended tomato and onion mixture. Stir well and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: After the tomato sauce has been simmering for 5-7 minutes, add the vegetable stock. Stir to combine and bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Cook the soup until the shell pasta is al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Avoid overcooking since the pasta will continue to soften slightly after you turn off the heat.
Step 7: Serve the soup immediately, garnished with fresh coriander or cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, try adding a clove of garlic to the tomato and onion blend before cooking.
Use canned tomatoes when fresh ones are not in season for convenience and consistent taste.
For a spicy twist, add a small chopped jalapeño to the blender.
Swap vegetable stock for chicken stock to deepen the flavor if you don’t need a vegetarian option.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock if the soup has thickened. Avoid reheating in the microwave for best texture as the pasta may become mushy.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a brown ceramic bowl filled with a rich orange tomato-based soup. The soup contains several layers of small shell-shaped pasta that are creamy white with a slight orange tint from the broth. Fresh green herbs, likely cilantro, are sprinkled throughout the soup, adding a touch of color contrast. A shiny metal spoon is partially submerged in the soup, lifting a few shells and broth, positioned on the right side of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface in soft, natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of shell pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small orecchiette work well and maintain the soup’s traditional feel.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming too soft?

Keep an eye on the cooking time and aim for al dente, then remove the pot from heat promptly. The pasta will continue to soften as the soup rests and during reheating.