Fish Soup

Fish Soup

Fish soup is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries across coastal communities worldwide. Light, fragrant, and bursting with flavor, this soup is a heartwarming meal that’s perfect for any season.

Typically made with a blend of white fish, vegetables, and a hint of aromatic herbs, fish soup is versatile, allowing for a range of flavors depending on your choice of fish and spices.

In this recipe, we’ll use firm white fish, such as cod or haddock, as well as a medley of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a touch of cream for richness. The result is a nourishing, flavorful soup that brings the essence of the sea to your table with each spoonful.

Ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 4 cups fish stock or vegetable broth
• 2 large tomatoes, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few fresh sprigs)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Fish:

• 1 pound firm white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or halibut), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for a richer texture)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Heat Oil and Butter – In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter melts.

Sauté Vegetables – Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Liquids

Add Wine – Pour in the white wine (if using), stirring to deglaze the pot and lift any flavorful bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for about 2 minutes to cook off any raw alcohol.

Add Stock and Tomatoes – Add the fish stock (or vegetable broth) and chopped tomatoes, stirring well to combine.

Add Potatoes and Herbs – Add the diced potatoes, bay leaf, thyme, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Simmer Until Tender – Cover the pot and allow the soup to simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors are well incorporated.

Step 4: Add the Fish

Add Fish Pieces – Gently add the fish pieces to the soup. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid stirring too much, as the fish can break apart.

Add Cream (Optional) – For a richer, creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream at this stage. Heat gently, being careful not to let the soup boil, as high heat can cause the cream to curdle.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish – Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Add Lemon – Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a splash of acidity, which brightens the flavors and balances the richness.

Chef’s Note:

Fish Selection: Use a firm white fish that holds its shape during cooking, like cod, haddock, or halibut. Avoid oily fish (like salmon or mackerel) as they can alter the delicate flavor of the soup.

Broth Variations: Fish stock gives the soup a more pronounced seafood flavor, but if it’s not available, vegetable broth works well as a substitute.

Additions: Consider adding seafood such as shrimp or clams for more variety. Just add them along with the fish and cook until done.

For Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of saffron or smoked paprika to the broth for a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the fish beautifully.

Nutrition Information (per serving, based on six servings):

• Calories: ~280 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 5g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 420mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used.

This fish soup is a simple yet elegant dish that can be enjoyed as a light main course or a hearty starter. Its blend of tender fish, fresh vegetables, and delicate herbs creates a comforting and satisfying meal that will transport you straight to the coast.

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