Caldo de camaron is the kind of dish that wraps you in a cozy embrace on a chilly evening. Imagine the tantalizing aroma of shrimp simmering in a rich, savory broth, mingling with spices and fresh vegetables. Each spoonful bursts with flavor, taking your taste buds on a delightful adventure.
I remember the first time I enjoyed caldo de camaron at my abuela’s house. It was a family gathering filled with laughter and warmth, and her secret recipe became an instant favorite. This dish is perfect for those cold nights or festive occasions when you want to impress your guests. Get ready for a flavor experience that will leave you craving more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Caldo de camaron is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful, making it a perfect weeknight option
- The vibrant colors and aromas create a feast for both the eyes and the palate
- Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand
- Serve it as an appetizer or a hearty main dish; either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
I still laugh when I recall how my cousin accidentally mistook caldo de camaron for soup and poured it all over his rice. Let’s just say, he didn’t mind the mix-up!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well; just ensure they are peeled and deveined for easier cooking.
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Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes add sweetness; feel free to use canned if fresh ones aren’t available.
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Onion: Sweet onions give depth to the broth; chop them finely for even cooking.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances flavor; use whole cloves or minced based on your preference.
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Cilantro: Add fresh cilantro towards the end for a burst of herbal freshness.
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Chili Peppers: Adjust heat levels with your favorite chili peppers—jalapeños offer mild heat, while serranos bring more spice.
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Fish Stock or Water: Fish stock adds richness; however, water can be used if stock isn’t available.
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Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
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Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; remember that shrimp can take on flavors easily.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping onions, tomatoes, garlic, and cilantro. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent—about 5 minutes—then stir in minced garlic until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Peppers: Toss in chopped tomatoes and sliced chili peppers. Cook until tomatoes soften and release their juices—this takes about 3-4 minutes.
Pour in Stock or Water: Add fish stock (or water) to the pot, bringing it to a gentle boil. Season with salt and pepper while imagining how delicious this will be!
Add Shrimp and Simmer: Next, add the shrimp into the bubbling broth. Cook until they turn pink—about 3-4 minutes—making sure not to overcook them.
Finish with Lime and Cilantro: Finally, stir in fresh cilantro and lime juice right before serving for an added zing. Serve hot with crusty bread or tortillas on the side.
And there you have it! A steaming bowl of caldo de camaron ready to warm your heart and tickle your taste buds. Enjoy every last drop!
You Must Know
- Caldo de camaron is more than a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl
- The delightful aroma fills your kitchen, making it irresistible
- Pair it with fresh tortillas for a comforting meal that warms both body and soul, perfect for family gatherings or chilly evenings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing aromatics like garlic and onions, then add shrimp and simmer in broth, ensuring flavors meld perfectly.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to add veggies like zucchini or corn for extra texture and nutrition. Experiment with spices to find your perfect balance.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve flavors.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor; frozen shrimp can be watery
- Avoid overcooking shrimp to keep them tender and juicy
- A squeeze of lime before serving elevates the taste significantly, adding brightness
I remember the first time I made caldo de camaron; my family devoured it and begged for seconds, leaving me feeling like a culinary superhero.

FAQ
What type of shrimp should I use for caldo de camaron?
Fresh or frozen large shrimp work best, providing great flavor and texture in the soup.
Can I make caldo de camaron without shellfish?
Absolutely! You can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth and add more vegetables instead.
How spicy is caldo de camaron typically?
The spice level varies; adjust jalapeños as needed to suit your personal heat preference.
Caldo de Camaron
Caldo de camaron, a delightful shrimp soup, warms your soul with its rich flavors and comforting aroma. This Mexican dish combines tender shrimp with fresh vegetables and spices in a savory broth that’s perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings. Each spoonful offers a burst of flavor, making it an instant favorite for family and friends. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, prepare to indulge in a cozy culinary experience that will leave you craving more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 ripe tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1–2 chili peppers (sliced, adjust for heat)
- 4 cups fish stock or water
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by chopping onions, tomatoes, garlic, and cilantro. Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onions until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add chopped tomatoes and sliced chili peppers; cook until tomatoes soften (3-4 minutes).
- Pour in fish stock or water, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add shrimp to the broth and cook until pink (about 3-4 minutes), being careful not to overcook.
- Stir in cilantro and lime juice just before serving. Enjoy hot with crusty bread or tortillas.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (240g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 175mg

