How to Prepare a Sea Cucumber Soup
Sea cucumber soup, also known as “caldo de jaiba,” is a popular dish in many Latin American countries. This savory broth is known for its rich flavors and nutritional benefits. Sea cucumbers, the star ingredient, are believed to have medicinal properties and are often used in traditional medicine. In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing a delicious caldo de jaiba.
Ingredients:
To make a flavorful sea cucumber soup, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 large sea cucumber (about 2 pounds)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup of tomato sauce
– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 can of coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon of cumin
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sea Cucumber:
– Begin by washing the sea cucumber thoroughly under cold water. Use a brush to remove any sand or debris.
– Cut the sea cucumber in half lengthwise and remove the internal organs. Rinse it again to ensure it is clean.
– Cut the sea cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
– Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
3. Add the Sea Cucumber and Spices:
– Add the sea cucumber pieces to the pot and stir well. Cook for another 5 minutes.
– Pour in the tomato sauce, chicken or vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Stir in the dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cumin.
4. Simmer the Soup:
– Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sea cucumber to become tender.
5. Serve:
– Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Enjoy your homemade caldo de jaiba, a comforting and nutritious dish that is sure to delight your taste buds.
