Experience the vibrant flavors of this Shrimp Soup with Black Beans and Hominy. This recipe is a delightful mix of hearty black beans, succulent shrimp, and wholesome hominy, simmered to perfection with a ham hock base and a kick of ancho chili. It's a comforting and nourishing meal for any day of the week.
You may be unfamiliar with a couple of the ingredients, such as hominy and ancho chili. Hominy is made from whole corn kernels that have been soaked in an alkali solution; it's often used in Mexican and Southern American cuisines. You can find it canned in most supermarkets. Ancho chili is a type of dried chili pepper common in Mexican cuisine, and it adds a mild, sweet heat to dishes.
Ingredients for Shrimp Soup with Black Beans and Hominy
Ham hock: A type of pork cut that adds depth and flavor to the soup.
Carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture.
Garlic cloves: Enhance the flavor of the soup.
Onion: Provides a savory base for the soup.
Celery rib: Adds a fresh, earthy flavor.
Bay leaf: Adds a unique flavor and aroma to the soup.
Hominy: Adds a comforting, hearty component to the soup.
Black beans: Provides protein and texture.
Red bell pepper: Adds sweet and slightly bitter flavors.
Ancho chili: Gives the soup a mild, sweet heat.
Shrimp: Adds a succulent, seafood flavor.
Lime juice: Adds a tangy zing that brightens the soup.
Avocado: Adds creaminess and richness to the soup.
Cilantro sprigs: Adds a fresh herbaceous flavor.
One reader, Garrott Rubino says:
This shrimp soup with black beans and hominy recipe is a delightful blend of flavors. The combination of tender shrimp, hearty black beans, and hominy creates a rich and satisfying soup. The addition of lime juice adds a refreshing zing, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required for Making Shrimp Soup With Black Beans and Hominy
How to prepare the ham hock broth: Simmer the ham hock, carrots, garlic, onion, celery, bay leaf, and water in a large pot for 2 hours, then strain and boil for 10 minutes until reduced to 10 cups.
How to cook the hominy and black beans: Add the hominy, black beans, red bell pepper, and ancho to the broth, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for about 6 minutes until the bell pepper is tender.
How to cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the soup and cook until they turn pink.
How to garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with avocado and cilantro, and serve.
How To Make Shrimp Soup with Black Beans and Hominy
This pleasant shrimp soup is a hearty dish that offers a savory flavor from black beans, white hominy, and peppers. Prep a filling batch in just 10 minutes!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½lbsmeaty ham hock
- 2large carrots
- 4large garlic cloves
- 1small onion
- 1celery rib
- 1bay leaf
- 12cupswater
- 15ozwhite hominy,(1 can)
- 15ozblack beans,(1 can)
- 1red bell pepper
- 1ancho chili
- salt and freshly ground pepper
- 1lbshrimp
- 3tbsplime juice,fresh
- 1hass avocado
- 1cupcilantro sprigs
Instructions
-
In a large pot, bring the ham hock, carrots, garlic, onion, celery, bay leaf, and water to a boil. Cover partially and simmer over low heat for 2 hours.
-
Strain, return to the pot, and boil for 10 minutes until reduced to 10 cups. Skim.
-
Add the hominy, black beans, red bell pepper, and ancho, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 6 minutes until the bell pepper is tender.
-
Add the shrimp and cook until pink. Add the lime juice.
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Ladle into bowls, garnish with the avocado and cilantro, and serve. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 645.11kcal
- Fat: 18.98g
- Saturated Fat: 4.95g
- Trans Fat: 0.10g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.56g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.31g
- Carbohydrates: 68.24g
- Fiber: 17.91g
- Sugar: 5.84g
- Protein: 53.35g
- Cholesterol: 164.43mg
- Sodium: 2138.97mg
- Calcium: 198.74mg
- Potassium: 1984.55mg
- Iron: 6.31mg
- Vitamin A: 317.59µg
- Vitamin C: 35.34mg
Technique Tip for Enhancing the Flavor of Shrimp Soup
When cooking the shrimp, it's important to not overcook them as they can become tough and lose their delicate flavor. Shrimp cook very quickly, usually in 2-3 minutes. You'll know they're done when they turn a bright pink color. Also, adding the lime juice at the end helps to brighten the flavors of the soup. It's always best to add acidic ingredients like lime or lemon juice towards the end of cooking to preserve their fresh taste.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Shrimp Soup Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonder: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup.
Use canned: Utilize canned ingredients like beans and hominy to save time on prep work.
Frozen shrimp: Use frozen shrimp to save time on peeling and deveining, as they are often already cleaned and ready to cook.
Kitchen tools: Invest in quality kitchen tools such as a sharp knife and efficient peeler to speed up food preparation.
Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to avoid wasting time searching for ingredients and utensils.
Substitute Ingredients For Shrimp Soup with Black Beans and Hominy Recipe
- shrimp - Substitute with cubed firm tofu: Firm tofu can provide a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the soup.
- ham hock - Substitute with smoked turkey leg: Smoked turkey leg can provide a similar smoky flavor and richness to the soup.
- white hominy - Substitute with canned corn: Canned corn can provide a similar texture and sweetness to the soup.
- black beans - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans have a similar creamy texture and can provide a slightly different flavor profile to the soup.
- shrimp - Substitute with chopped chicken breast: Chicken breast can provide a similar protein source and absorb the flavors of the soup.
- lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can provide a similar acidity and brightness to the soup.
- hass avocado - Substitute with diced cucumber: Diced cucumber can provide a similar refreshing and crunchy element to the soup.
Presenting Shrimp Soup With Black Beans and Hominy
Elevate the plating: When presenting this shrimp soup with black beans and hominy, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use clean lines and carefully arrange the ingredients to showcase the vibrant colors and textures.
Incorporate microgreens: Add a touch of elegance by garnishing the soup with delicate microgreens. Their fresh, vibrant appearance will add a pop of color and a hint of earthy flavor to the dish.
Utilize fine dining serveware: Opt for high-quality, elegant serveware to elevate the dining experience. Choose sophisticated bowls or plates that complement the rich colors of the soup and enhance the overall presentation.
Implement precise portioning: Pay attention to portion sizes and ensure that each element of the dish is meticulously measured and placed with precision. This attention to detail demonstrates a commitment to excellence in every aspect of the culinary experience.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use a steady hand to artfully drizzle a swirl of lime juice around the edge of the bowl before serving. This subtle touch adds a visually appealing element and a hint of citrus brightness to the presentation.
Highlight the avocado: Showcase the creamy texture and vibrant green color of the avocado by slicing it into elegant, thin segments and delicately placing them on top of the soup. This draws attention to the luxurious ingredient and adds a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the components of the dish in a symmetrical and balanced manner, creating visual harmony that reflects precision and attention to detail.
Use contrasting textures: Incorporate elements with varying textures, such as the tender shrimp, creamy avocado, and hearty beans, to create a dynamic and engaging dining experience that appeals to both the eyes and the palate.
Consider the negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the vibrant colors and textures of the dish to stand out. Thoughtful use of empty space can enhance the overall visual impact of the presentation.
Emphasize the cilantro garnish: Use cilantro sprigs to add a final touch of freshness and color to the presentation. Place them strategically to create a visually appealing focal point that complements the overall composition of the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Shrimp Soup With Black Beans and Hominy
- Large pot: A large, sturdy pot is essential for cooking the soup and ensuring there is enough space for all the ingredients to simmer together.
- Strainer: A strainer will be used to separate the solids from the broth after simmering the ham hock and vegetables.
- Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for chopping the carrots, onion, celery, and red bell pepper.
- Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing the vegetables and other ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the soup as it simmers and ensuring that nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
- Soup ladle: A soup ladle will be used to serve the shrimp soup into bowls for serving.
- Citrus juicer: A citrus juicer will be used to extract the juice from the limes for adding a fresh burst of flavor to the soup.
- Chef's knife: A chef's knife is essential for preparing the shrimp and avocado, ensuring precise and clean cuts.
- Soup bowls: Soup bowls are necessary for serving the finished shrimp soup with black beans and hominy.
Storing and Freezing Shrimp Soup With Black Beans and Hominy
Allow the shrimp soup to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the formation of harmful bacteria and ensure the best quality.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld and intensify over time, making the soup even more delicious.
If you plan to freeze the soup, consider the following steps:
- Remove the shrimp from the soup and store them separately. Cooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery when frozen and reheated.
- Ladle the cooled soup (without the shrimp) into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze the soup for up to 3 months for optimal quality.
To reheat the frozen soup:
- Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator or place the container in a bowl of cold water for faster thawing.
- Transfer the thawed soup to a pot and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.
- If you removed the shrimp before freezing, add freshly cooked shrimp to the reheated soup for the best texture and flavor.
When reheating the soup, you may need to add a little water or broth to adjust the consistency, as the hominy and black beans may absorb some liquid during storage.
Avoid repeatedly reheating the soup, as this can affect its quality and texture. Reheat only the portion you plan to consume and store the remainder in the refrigerator or freezer.
How To Reheat Leftover Shrimp Soup
Reheat the shrimp soup in a pot on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the shrimp and vegetables are heated through without overcooking.
If you have stored the shrimp separately from the soup, reheat the soup first, then add the shrimp during the last few minutes of reheating to prevent them from becoming tough and rubbery.
For a quicker reheating option, use the microwave. Transfer the desired portion of shrimp soup to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel or a microwave-safe lid. Heat the soup in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it is heated through.
If the soup has thickened during storage, add a small amount of water or broth to help thin it out and restore its original consistency.
To enhance the flavors of the reheated shrimp soup, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, or a dash of hot sauce before serving.
If you have leftover avocado, slice it fresh just before serving to prevent browning and maintain its optimal taste and texture.
When reheating, be cautious not to overcook the shrimp, as they can quickly become tough and rubbery if exposed to heat for too long. The shrimp should be heated just until they are warm throughout.
Random Fact About Shrimp Soup With Black Beans and Hominy
The soup is a rich source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Shrimp, black beans, and hominy are all excellent sources of protein, making this soup a great option for a protein-packed meal. Additionally, the combination of shrimp and black beans provides a good dose of iron, which is essential for overall health. The inclusion of avocado not only adds a creamy texture but also contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. This soup is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures in one dish.
Is Making Shrimp Soup at Home Cost-Effective?
This shrimp soup with black beans and hominy recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients such as black beans, hominy, and ham hock makes it budget-friendly. However, the inclusion of shrimp may slightly elevate the cost. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $25-$30.
Is This Shrimp Soup Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This shrimp soup with black beans and hominy recipe is a nutritious and well-balanced dish. The combination of lean protein from the shrimp, fiber-rich black beans and hominy, and various vegetables provides a wide array of essential nutrients. The ham hock adds depth of flavor, but it is also a source of saturated fat and sodium, which could be a concern for those with dietary restrictions.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the ham hock with a leaner protein source, such as skinless chicken breast or turkey leg, to reduce the saturated fat content
- Use low-sodium black beans and hominy to control the overall sodium levels in the dish
- Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables, such as adding diced tomatoes, zucchini, or leafy greens, to boost the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content
- Opt for a reduced-sodium broth or use water as the base to further minimize the sodium content
- Garnish with a dollop of low-fat Greek yogurt instead of avocado to reduce the calorie and fat content while still providing a creamy texture
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Shrimp Soup Recipe
The combination of ham hock, hominy, black beans, and shrimp in this soup creates a rich and flavorful dish. The slow simmering of the ham hock infuses the broth with a deep, smoky essence, while the addition of hominy and black beans adds heartiness and texture. The shrimp brings a delightful sweetness, and the lime juice and avocado provide a refreshing contrast. Overall, this recipe offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and comforting dish.
Enhance Your Shrimp Soup with Black Beans and Hominy Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Shrimp Soup with Black Beans and Hominy Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying meal. The shrimp provides a succulent and delicate taste, complemented by the hearty black beans and hominy. The addition of ham hock infuses rich, savory notes, while the ancho chili and lime juice contribute a zesty kick. The use of fresh avocado and cilantro adds a burst of vibrant color and refreshing taste. With a balance of wholesome ingredients and expertly crafted flavors, this recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience.
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