Description
A tropical twist on traditional fish soup, this recipe combines tender white fish with a coconut milk broth that’s brightened up by zesty lime and infused with fragrant herbs. Light, fresh, and full of flavor, it’s the perfect soup for warm weather or when you need a taste of the islands.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics and vegetables.
- 1 medium onion: Chopped, provides a sweet, savory base for the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced, adds depth and flavor.
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger: Grated or minced, gives the soup a warm, spicy kick.
- 2 medium carrots: Peeled and sliced, they add sweetness and texture to the soup.
- 2 medium potatoes: Peeled and diced, adding heartiness to the soup.
- 1 red bell pepper: Chopped, adds color and sweetness.
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk: The creamy base of the soup that adds richness and flavor.
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: The liquid base for the soup, providing depth of flavor.
- Juice of 2 limes: For a fresh, tangy kick that balances the richness of the coconut milk.
- 1 teaspoon turmeric: Adds an earthy depth and vibrant color to the soup.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Complements the turmeric and adds warmth to the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a mild heat that can be adjusted based on your preference.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- 1 pound white fish fillets: Such as cod, halibut, or tilapia, cut into bite-sized pieces. The fish should be fresh and flaky for the best texture.
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped, for garnish and a burst of freshness.
Optional Garnishes:
- Sliced red chili: For an extra kick of heat and a pop of color.
- Chopped green onions: For a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- Extra lime wedges: For serving, so guests can add extra lime juice as desired.
- Crushed tortilla chips or crispy wontons: For added texture and crunch.
Instructions
First Step: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot, cooking for about 1 minute. Stir frequently to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Add the Vegetables: Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and chopped red bell pepper to the pot. Stir everything together to combine, cooking for about 5 minutes to allow the vegetables to soften slightly and absorb the flavors of the garlic and ginger.
Second Step: Build the Soup Base
- Add the Broth and Coconut Milk: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and the full-fat coconut milk, stirring to combine. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Season the Soup: Stir in the turmeric, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to your preference. The turmeric will give the soup a warm, earthy flavor and beautiful golden hue, while the cumin and chili powder add depth and mild heat.
- Simmer the Soup: Let the soup simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. The flavors will begin to meld together, creating a fragrant and aromatic base for the fish.
Third Step: Add the Fish and Lime
- Add the Fish: Gently stir in the fish fillets, making sure they are submerged in the liquid. Cook the fish for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it can become tough and dry.
- Add the Lime Juice: Squeeze the juice of 2 limes into the soup, stirring well. The lime juice adds a fresh, zesty note that balances the richness of the coconut milk. You can also taste the soup at this point and add more lime juice if you prefer a more tangy flavor.
Final Step: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the Soup: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. If you like a little extra heat, you can add sliced red chilies or a sprinkle of chili flakes. You can also serve the soup with extra lime wedges on the side for those who want to add more citrus flavor.
- Serve the Soup: For added texture, consider serving the soup with crispy tortilla chips or crispy wontons on top. These crunchy garnishes contrast beautifully with the creamy soup, providing a delightful bite with every spoonful.
- Enjoy: Serve the soup immediately, and savor the tropical, flavorful, and comforting bowl of goodness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 20g