Fish soup

Fish Soup: A Deliciously Easy Recipe

Fish soup is a traditional recipe, full of flavor and nostalgia, that combines nature with culinary art. It’s a versatile dish, perfect for fasting days, as well as for those moments when you want to indulge in something tasty. In this guide, I will walk you step by step through the process of preparing a delicious fish soup that will delight both fish lovers and those who may not be as familiar with this ingredient.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

1 kg fish heads and tails (you can also add roe for a richer flavor)
1 carrot
1 parsley root
1 slice of celery
1 onion
2 potatoes
5 cloves of garlic
1 red bell pepper
1 hot pepper (optional, for a touch of spice)
1 cup of tomato puree (about 200 ml)
juice of one lemon (optional, for a tangy flavor)
fresh basil leaves
salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cleaning and preparing the fish
The first step in making fish soup is to rinse the fish heads and tails under cold running water. This removes impurities and the characteristic smell. Place them in a large pot, add cold water and a teaspoon of salt. Let it boil for 15 minutes. It’s important not to skip this step, as the soup base will have an intense and rich umami flavor.

2. Straining and cleaning the fish
After 15 minutes, strain the liquid through a fine sieve, ensuring no bones remain in the broth. This liquid will be the base of your soup. Use a fork or knife to remove the meat from the fish, making sure to eliminate all bones. Set the fish meat aside.

3. Preparing the vegetables
Peel and wash the vegetables. Grate the carrot and parsley root on a large grater to extract their juices. Chop the onion, red bell pepper, and garlic finely, and you can dice the hot pepper according to your preference. This vegetable mix will add freshness and a unique flavor to your soup.

4. Sautéing the vegetables
In a large pot, add a little olive oil and sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. After a few minutes, add the grated vegetables (carrot and parsley root), continuing to sauté everything together for about 5 minutes. The flavors will combine and delight your senses.

5. Cooking the soup
Pour the strained fish broth over the vegetables and bring everything to a boil. Now, add the peeled and cubed potatoes. Let it simmer for 15 minutes over medium heat. The potatoes will add thickness and a sweet flavor to your soup.

6. Finalizing the soup
After 15 minutes, add the tomato puree, basil, lemon juice (if you prefer a tangy note), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld well.

7. Serving
When the soup is ready, add the fish meat to each bowl and pour the soup over it. You can garnish with a few fresh basil leaves for a colorful and appealing presentation.

Suggestions and variations:
- You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or cabbage, for an even richer flavor.
- If you like your fish spicier, you can add a few slices of finely chopped hot pepper at the beginning of the preparation.
- Fish soup can be served with a slice of toasted bread and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Fish soup is an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins. Fish contains essential nutrients that contribute to heart and brain health. Additionally, the vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this soup a healthy and nourishing dish.

Calories:
A serving of fish soup has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the type of fish chosen. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to stay fit and maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of fish, such as salmon, trout, or perch. Each will add a unique flavor to the soup.
2. How tangy can the soup be?
The lemon juice can be adjusted according to your preferences. Add it gradually to find the perfect balance.
3. Is fish soup good for fasting days?
Yes, fish soup is an excellent choice for fasting days, as it contains protein and essential nutrients.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to get cooking and enjoy a bowl of aromatic and healthy fish soup! Remember, cooking is an art, and every recipe is an opportunity to create something delicious and share joy with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!