Sopa de Conchas

Sopa de conchas is a comforting Mexican shell pasta soup, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. This simple dish is made by simmering small shell pasta in a rich tomato-based broth, infused with garlic, onion, and spices for added depth. Loved by both kids and adults, it’s a quick, nourishing, and budget-friendly meal that brings the flavors of Mexican home cooking to your table.

What is the difference between Sopa de Conchas and Sopa de Conchitas?

“Sopa de conchas” and “sopa de conchitas” refer to the same dish: a Mexican shell pasta soup made with small pasta shells (“conchas”) in a tomato-based broth.

The term “conchitas” is a diminutive form of “conchas” and is used to express affection or make the dish sound more endearing, especially when serving it to children.

Essentially, “sopa de conchitas” is just a cute or familiar way of saying “sopa de conchas,” but both names describe the same beloved, comforting soup.

What ingredients are needed to make Sopa de Conchas?

Small shell pasta, or “conchas,” is the star of this soup. Its shape holds the broth well, capturing the rich flavors in each bite. Look for small or medium-sized shells for the best texture in the soup; they cook quickly and are perfect for the tender, comforting consistency of this dish.

Vegetable broth serves as the base for the soup, providing a savory, rich background flavor. It can be homemade or store-bought; low-sodium versions are ideal if you want more control over the saltiness. You can also substitute with chicken broth for added depth, but vegetable broth keeps the dish vegetarian.

Fresh garlic cloves add a subtle warmth and depth of flavor to the broth. Minced or finely chopped garlic is usually sautéed in oil at the start, releasing its aroma and infusing the base with a hint of spice that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.

White or yellow onions are typically used, adding sweetness and body to the broth. Sautéed with garlic, the onions provide a foundation of flavor, which helps round out the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the overall taste of the soup.

Roma tomatoes are often preferred because of their firm texture and low water content, which creates a thicker, richer broth. Blended into a smooth base, they give the soup a vibrant color and a mild sweetness that complements the garlic and onions beautifully.

How to make Sopa de Conchas?

Begin by peeling the onion and garlic, and remove the green bits from the tomatoes.

Give the onions, garlic, and tomatoes together with the one cup of the vegetable broth into the bowl of a food prcessor or blender. Blend into a smooth paste.

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot and add the hard shell pasta to it. Stir the pasta and fry it for 3-4 minutes.

Then, give the content of the blender into the pot. Add 3 more cups of vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cook the Sopa de Conchas until the pasta is soft. Now it is ready for serving.

Serving Suggestions

1. Add a fresh twist by garnishing each bowl with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. The citrus brightens up the soup, balancing the richness of the broth and enhancing the flavors.
2. For a creamy and savory touch, add a few slices of fresh avocado and crumbled queso fresco on top. The avocado adds a silky texture, while the queso fresco gives a mild, salty contrast that pairs well with the tomato-based broth.
3. Complement the soup with warm corn tortillas or crusty bread on the side. Perfect for dipping, they add a satisfying crunch and make it a heartier meal, great for a cozy family dinner.

What can one do with leftovers?

With leftovers of Sopa de Conchas, here are a few tasty options:

• Reheat and Refresh: Warm the soup on the stove, adding a bit more broth or water if it’s thickened overnight. Top with fresh garnishes like cilantro, lime, or avocado to bring back the vibrant flavors.
• Make a Casserole: Turn the leftovers into a baked pasta casserole by transferring the soup to a baking dish, topping with shredded cheese, and baking until bubbly and golden. This transforms the soup into a comforting, cheesy meal.
• Use as a Sauce Base: Blend leftover soup until smooth, creating a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Toss it with cooked pasta, use it as a sauce for enchiladas, or layer it in a Mexican-inspired lasagna for a fun twist on classic dishes.

Other amazing soup recipes that you should not miss

• Easy Vegetarian Tom Kha Soup Recipe
• Pumpkin Soup
• Creamy White Bean Soup Recipe without a blender
• Tomato Soup
• Broccoli Cheddar Soup

I hope you love this cozy, comforting Sopa de Conchas as much as I do! It’s such a simple yet flavorful dish that brings warmth to any meal.

If you try it, snap a photo and share it on Instagram or Facebook—I’d love to see your beautiful bowls of soup!

Don’t forget to leave a comment and a star rating below to let me know how it turned out. Happy cooking, and enjoy every spoonful!