Yucatan Lemon Soup
Although it's traditionally made with limes (and you could certainly make it that way), Meyer lemons add a gentler, subtle twist to this classic Mexican soup with shrimp, garlic and lots of fresh cilantro. Meyer lemons are usually available only during the winter months; they are rounder and smoother than common lemons. Serve as a light entree with a big salad or as a special starter.
Prep Time:
20 mins
Total Time:
30 mins
Servings:
4 servings, 1 cup each
Ingredients
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4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
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1 medium onion, cut into quarters
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2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and quartered
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8 cloves garlic, crushed and peeled
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3 tablespoons finely grated Meyer lemon zest, (see Tip)
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1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
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1 4-inch cinnamon stick
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4 whole cloves
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1 pound raw shrimp, (26-30 per pound), peeled and deveined
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3 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice, (see Tip)
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon hot sauce, or to taste (optional)
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1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Directions
1
Bring broth, onion, jalapenos, garlic, zest, cumin seeds, cinnamon stick and cloves to a simmer in a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Cover, reduce heat, and continue to simmer for 20 minutes. Strain the broth (discard solids).
2
Return the broth to the pan and bring to a low simmer. Add shrimp, lemon juice, salt and hot sauce (if using). Cook until the shrimp are pink and firm, about 3 minutes. Stir in cilantro and serve.
Tips:
Substitution Tip: Meyer lemon juice concentrate can be purchased online from perfectpuree.com. Although nothing can replicate the distinct sweet, tart, floral taste of a Meyer lemon, you can use 2 tablespoons regular lemon juice plus 1 tablespoon orange juice to replace the 3 tablespoons juice in this recipe, and regular lemons for the zest.
MAKE AHEAD TIP: Store the spiced broth (Step 1) in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost and return the broth to a simmer before continuing with Step 2.
Nutrition Facts
Calories 149, Total Fat 2 g, Saturated Fat 1 g, Cholesterol 177 mg, Sodium 600 mg, Carbohydrate 3 g, Protein 27 g, Potassium 234 mg. Daily Values: Vitamin C 15%. Exchanges: Lean Meat 4
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
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