Fish soup like in Szeged

Fish soup like in Szeged - a culinary journey into the heart of delicious gastronomy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

When it comes to soups, nothing compares to a rich and flavorful fish soup that reminds us of ancestral traditions and moments spent with loved ones. The fish soup like in Szeged is undoubtedly one of those recipes that combines authentic flavors with warm memories. This soup is perfect for cool days or for a comforting dinner, and its secret lies in using quality ingredients and the correct cooking technique.

So, get ready to explore this simple fish soup recipe that will impress both you and your loved ones. You will need a little time and a few ingredients, but the final result will definitely be worth the effort.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 medium white onion
- 1 kg mackerel (or any other available freshwater fish, such as carp or catfish)
- 1 large potato
- 1 bell pepper (green or red, depending on preference)
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika (I recommend Kotanyi paprika for an intense flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon hot paprika (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for sautéing

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the fish: Start by cleaning the fish. Remove the entrails and cut off the heads, then portion the fish into suitable pieces. It is important to choose fresh fish, but if you do not have this option, frozen fish is a good alternative. Make sure to wash it well under cold running water to remove any impurities.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Clean the onion, potato, and bell pepper. Chop the onion finely, cut the potato into small cubes, and slice the bell pepper into strips. This cutting method helps release flavors and results in a richer soup.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add a little oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. This step is essential, as the sautéed onion will provide a flavorful base for the soup.

4. Adding the vegetables: Once the onion has sautéed, add the potato and bell pepper. Continue to sauté the vegetables for a few minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

5. Seasoning: Add the sweet paprika and mix well. Paprika is the key ingredient that will give the soup a vibrant color and unique flavor. If you like a touch of spiciness, now is the time to add the hot paprika.

6. Boiling the fish: Put the fish heads and tails in the pot and add enough water to cover the ingredients. Let it boil over high heat for 30 minutes. This step will release all the flavor from the fish, enriching the soup.

7. Straining the soup: After boiling, use a fine sieve to strain the soup, ensuring that the pressure is sufficient to extract all the flavor from the fish heads. Discard the fish remains and keep only the liquid.

8. Finalizing the soup: In another pot, pour the strained soup, add the remaining fish pieces, tomato paste, and let it simmer over low heat for another 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

9. Serving: The fish soup like in Szeged is served hot, preferably in a deep bowl. You can add toasted bread croutons or a slice of lemon for an extra touch of freshness.

Useful tips:

- Choosing the fish: Fresh fish is always preferable, but if you use frozen fish, make sure it is of high quality. Mackerel is ideal, but you can experiment with other species.
- Paprika: The quality of the paprika significantly influences the soup's taste. Choose Kotanyi paprika or another trusted brand to achieve a rich and authentic flavor.
- Soup texture: If you prefer a creamier soup, you can puree some of the vegetables after boiling to achieve a finer texture.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or celery, to diversify the flavor. Additionally, if you like, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley before serving adds an extra layer of flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

Fish soup is not only delicious but also very healthy. Fish is an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and essential minerals such as iodine and selenium. The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, so this soup will help you stay healthy and energized.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen fish? Yes, frozen fish is a good option. Make sure it is of quality and thaw it properly before preparation.
- What other spices can I add? You can experiment with herbs like dill or thyme to customize the flavors.
- How can I store the fish soup? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or can be frozen for later consumption.

Serving suggestions:

This fish soup is perfect alongside a slice of freshly baked homemade bread or crispy croutons. Additionally, a green salad with lemon dressing will perfectly complement the meal, bringing a pleasant contrast of flavors.

In conclusion, the fish soup like in Szeged is not just a recipe, but a culinary experience that combines tradition with innovation. With each bite, you will feel the warmth and love conveyed through this dish. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away into the world of delicious flavors!