Conch Recipe – Antigua's Delightful Seafood

Conch is a beloved seafood dish in Antigua and Barbuda, celebrated for its tender texture and rich flavor. Often enjoyed during festive gatherings or beachside barbecues, this dish reflects the islands' vibrant culinary culture. Whether served in a salad or as a main course, conch is a true taste of the Caribbean.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

2 lbs conch meat, cleaned and tenderized
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 large tomato, chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup coconut milk
1 cup fish or chicken broth
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Conch

Rinse the conch meat thoroughly under cold water. Pound the conch meat with a meat tenderizer or mallet to tenderize it. Cut the tenderized conch meat into bite-sized pieces.

In a bowl, toss the conch pieces with lime juice and let them marinate for about 10 minutes. Rinse again and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In a large skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Saut√© until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent.

Add the Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the chopped tomato, tomato paste, thyme, paprika, ground black pepper, and salt. Cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes are soft and the spices are well incorporated.

Cook the Conch

Add the conch pieces to the skillet and stir to coat them with the vegetable and spice mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Simmer with Liquids

Pour in the coconut milk and fish or chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the conch is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Serve

Garnish the conch dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with rice, fried plantains, or a fresh salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Conch?

Conch is a type of shellfish commonly found in warm coastal waters. It is known for its firm texture and mild flavor, making it a popular ingredient in various Caribbean dishes.

Where does Conch come from?

In Antigua and Barbuda, conch is harvested from the surrounding waters and is a vital part of the local fishing industry, contributing to the economy and cultural heritage.

What are the main ingredients in Conch?

Key ingredients include conch meat, lime juice, onions, garlic, green and red bell peppers, tomatoes, and tomato paste.

How long does Conch take to make?

The preparation and cooking time for conch is approximately 75-95 minutes.

What do you serve with Conch?

Conch is often served with rice and peas, fried plantains, or a fresh garden salad to complement its flavors.

Conch