Caldo de camarón – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Mexico Servings: Serves 4
Mexico Servings: Serves 4Caldo de Camarón is a traditional Mexican shrimp soup, brimming with bold flavors and a rich heritage. Rooted deeply in the coastal regions of Mexico, this dish embodies the vibrant essence of Mexican cuisine. Typically served throughout Lent and popular in seafood restaurants, this soup blends fresh shrimp with aromatic vegetables and spices, offering a satisfying combination of heat and comfort. The broth, infused with chilies and tomatoes, provides a robust background that highlights the delicate sweetness of the shrimp, making it a beloved staple in Mexican households.
Ingredients
- shrimp – 1 pound / 450 g peeled and deveined
- water – 6 cups / 1.4 liters
- dried guajillo chilies – 2, stemmed and seeded
- tomatoes – 2 medium, diced
- onion – 1 medium, chopped
- garlic cloves – 3, minced
- carrot – 1 large, sliced
- celery stalk – 1, sliced
- potato – 1 large, peeled and cubed
- vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons
- bay leaf – 1
- salt – to taste
- black pepper – to taste
- lime – 1, cut into wedges
- fresh cilantro – for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
- Add diced tomatoes, guajillo chilies, carrot, celery, potato, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Remove the guajillo chilies, blend them with a cup of the broth, and return the mixture to the pot.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for squeezing.
Substitutions
- dried guajillo chilies -> ancho chilies or chipotle chilies
- shrimp -> fish or chicken for a different protein
- vegetable oil -> olive oil
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Introduce some lemon or lime zest in the broth for added citrus flavor.
- Add a splash of white wine to enhance the depth of flavor in the soup.
- Consider roasting the tomatoes and garlic before adding them to amplify the soup’s richness.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
