Creamy Shell Soup - Sopita de Caracol

snails

🥗Healthier: mushrooms

💰Cheaper: canned clams

Mushrooms provide a similar texture, while canned clams are more affordable.

chicken broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water + bouillon

Vegetable broth is lower in calories, and water with bouillon is a cost-effective alternative.

jalapeño

🥗Healthier: bell pepper

💰Cheaper: banana pepper

Bell peppers provide sweetness without heat, while banana peppers are less expensive.

avocado

🥗Healthier: guacamole

💰Cheaper: mashed peas

Guacamole is a flavorful alternative, while mashed peas are a budget-friendly substitute.

Cut 4 Roma tomatoes in half.

Cut 1 jalapeño (or substitute with 1 serrano pepper) in half.

Chop 1/2 white onion.

Chop 3-4 garlic cloves.

Broil the tomatoes, jalapeño, onion, and garlic in the oven for about 10 to 12 minutes or until softened.

Transfer the broiled ingredients to a blender.

Add 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon chili powder, and 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth to the blender.

Blend the ingredients until smooth and set aside.

In a medium pan or stock pot, heat 2-3 tablespoons of your preferred cooking oil.

Lightly fry 1 pound of shell pasta, stirring frequently until slightly toasted.

Pour the blended sauce over the toasted pasta.

Add an additional cup of water to the blender to rinse off the remaining sauce and pour it into the pot.

Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if desired.

Bring the mixture to a light boil, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.

Turn down the burner to low, cover, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: