Caribbean seafood soup is a flavorful dish loaded with fresh seafood, spices, and vegetables.

This comforting soup combines the fresh flavors of the sea with rich, savory seasonings that are easy to prepare.

So if you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this soup will impress.

What is Caribbean Seafood Soup?

Caribbean seafood soup is a thick, flavorful broth with seafood such as shrimp, fish, crab, or lobster, along with vegetables like pumpkin, carrots, and potatoes.

The soup gets its rich, bold flavor from herbs and spices, including thyme, garlic, and Scotch bonnet peppers. You can also add dumplings or ground provisions, such as yams or green bananas.

This soup is a one-pot dish that is perfect for every occasion and is highly nutritious.

Ingredients for Caribbean Seafood Soup

Seafood

Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Fish fillets (snapper, cod, or any firm white fish)
Crab legs (optional)
Season with green seasoning

Vegetables and Provisions

Pumpkin (cubed)
Carrots (sliced)
Potatoes or sweet potatoes (cubed)
Green bananas or yams (optional)
Corn on the cob (cut into chunks)
Okra (sliced)

Aromatics and Seasonings

Onion (diced)
Garlic (minced)
Scotch bonnet pepper (whole or chopped, depending on your spice preference)
Fresh thyme sprigs
Green onions (chopped)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
All-purpose seasoning or seafood seasoning
Maggi Fish Tea mix (1 packet)

Liquid Base

Coconut milk (1 cup)
Fish or vegetable stock (4–5 cups)
Water (if needed)

Optional Additions

Small flour dumplings (spinners)
Lime or lemon juice (for garnish)
Cilantro or parsley (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Caribbean Seafood Soup

Rinse the shrimp, fish, and crab legs thoroughly. Pat them dry and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Cube the pumpkin, carrots, and potatoes. Slice the corn, okra, and green onions.

In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, garlic, and thyme, and sauté until fragrant.

Stir in the pumpkin, carrots, and potatoes. Sauté for 3–5 minutes to allow the vegetables to absorb the flavors.

Add the fish or vegetable stock and coconut milk to the pot. Stir well and bring to a boil.

Mix in the packet of Maggi Fish Tea for an extra layer of seasoning and depth.

Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Gently add the shrimp, fish, and crab legs. Let the soup cook for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the seafood is fully cooked.

During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the sliced okra. This will help to slightly thicken the soup while adding a lovely, earthy flavor.

Adjust and Serve

Add salt, pepper, and all-purpose seasoning as needed. If you like heat, carefully add some chopped Scotch bonnet pepper.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley, and a squeeze of lime juice for added brightness.

Substitutions and Variations

Don’t worry if you’re missing a few ingredients—Caribbean seafood soup is highly versatile! Here are some easy substitutions:

Seafood: Replace shrimp with scallops, fish fillets with salmon, or crab legs with mussels or clams. Use what’s fresh and available.

Vegetables: If you don’t have pumpkin, substitute with butternut squash. Sweet potatoes can be swapped with regular potatoes or plantains.

Seasonings: If you can’t find Maggi Fish Tea, use a mix of fish bouillon cubes, seafood stock, and dried herbs.

Coconut Milk: For a lighter soup, you can omit coconut milk or replace it with almond milk.

Storage and Reheating

Caribbean seafood soup stores well, making it a great make-ahead meal. Here’s how to store it properly:

Refrigerator

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
The soup will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Pour the cooled soup into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Leave some space for expansion.
It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or stock if it’s too thick.
Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 1–2 minutes to ensure even heating.

Tip: If freezing, avoid adding seafood before storing. Add the seafood fresh when reheating to prevent overcooking.

What To Eat With Caribbean Sea Food Soup?

Crusty bread or roti for dipping.

Steamed rice for a more filling option.

A side of fried plantains or a simple green salad.

Caribbean seafood soup is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings bold flavors and hearty ingredients into one satisfying bowl. By following this recipe, you can create a meal perfect for any occasion.

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