Fish soup

Fish soup - A comforting delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8 servings

Fish soup is a traditional dish, full of flavor, that brings together the tastes of the sea and the freshness of vegetables. This recipe not only provides a nutritious meal but is also a perfect way to enjoy fresh fish in a delicious combination. Over time, fish soup has been a symbol of fishing communities, gathering families around the table to share unforgettable moments.

Your ingredients:

1. Fish (tails, heads, and pieces of fish) - 1 kg
2. Onion - 2 large onions
3. Carrots - 1-2 carrots
4. Celery - 1 small celery
5. Parsnip - 1 parsnip
6. Bell peppers - 2 bell peppers (whole from the freezer or fresh)
7. Rice - 2 tablespoons
8. Tomatoes for soup - 200 g (or canned tomatoes)
9. Fresh herbs (parsley, lovage) - to taste
10. Cabbage juice - 300 ml
11. Salt, pepper - to taste

Preparing the fish soup:

Step 1: Prepare a large pot of 3-4 liters and fill it with water, then place it over medium heat. It is essential that the water is enough to cover all the ingredients, but do not overdo it, to avoid diluting the flavors.

Step 2: Chop the vegetables. The onion is sliced, and the carrot, celery, and parsnip are grated or finely chopped. These vegetables will form the aromatic base of the soup, bringing a delicious mix of flavors.

Step 3: When the water starts to boil, add the onion and grated vegetables. It is important not to sauté the carrot, as the fish used (catfish) is quite fatty and will add enough flavor to the soup.

Step 4: Let the vegetables simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This time will allow the vegetables to release their flavors into the water.

Step 5: Now it is time to add the pieces of fish and the head, which must be very well cleaned, without ears. These will provide the soup with a rich flavor, but we must be careful not to let them boil too long, to avoid the fish turning to 'dust'. The ideal cooking time for fish is 10-15 minutes.

Step 6: Once the fish is well cooked, add the well-washed rice. This will not only enrich the soup but will also absorb the delicious flavors.

Step 7: Finally, add the tomatoes for soup (or canned tomatoes) and the cabbage juice. These will add a sour taste, specific to soups, which will perfectly balance the flavors. Let the soup boil for a few minutes, about 5 minutes.

Step 8: When the soup is ready, add the chopped fresh herbs. This will bring an extra freshness and enhance the flavors.

Step 9: Serve the fish soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. If desired, you can drizzle it with a little lemon juice for an even more vibrant taste.

Useful tips:

- Choose fresh or frozen fish, but make sure it has been properly frozen to avoid contamination risks.
- You can also use other types of fish, such as carp or perch, depending on your personal preferences.
- If you want a spicier soup, add a few slices of hot pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- For a more intense flavor, you can also add a few shrimp or clams to turn the soup into a true marine delicacy.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: 150-200 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of fish?
- Absolutely! Fish soup is versatile, and you can experiment with different types of fish based on your preferences.

2. How can I make the soup thicker?
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more rice or even a vegetable puree for a creamy texture.

3. What can I serve alongside the fish soup?
- Fish soup goes wonderfully with a slice of fresh bread, polenta, or even toasted bread croutons.

4. How long can the soup be kept in the fridge?
- Fish soup can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat gently before serving, adding a little water if necessary.

5. How can I adjust the acidity of the soup?
- If you prefer a less acidic soup, reduce the amount of cabbage juice or add a tablespoon of sugar to balance the taste.

Fish soup is not just a meal, but an experience! Enjoy every bite and let yourself be carried away by the unique flavors of this traditional dish. Join family and friends and turn this recipe into a special occasion, full of stories and laughter. Bon appétit!