Sicilian fish soup

Sicilian Fish Soup

Sicilian fish soup is a recipe that evokes the sun and the sea, being a perfect combination of fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flavors. This soup is not just a simple dish, but a culinary experience that blends tradition with taste. Get ready to enjoy a delicious meal, full of nutrients and flavor, perfect for a dinner with friends or a special occasion.

Total preparation time: 45-55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced into 2-3 mm rounds
- 1 medium fennel bulb, cut into thin strips
- 1 large can of peeled tomatoes
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 1 liter of fish stock (you can also use homemade fish soup)
- 200 ml of dry white wine
- 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, chopped
- A pinch of saffron
- 400 g of fish fillet (preferably white fish)
- 6-8 large shrimp (or 12-14 regular shrimp)
- Juice of 1 orange
- 100 ml of crème fraîche or sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the vegetables well. Cut the onion, carrots, and fennel as indicated. The peeled tomatoes can be diced, and the finely chopped garlic will add an extra flavor to the soup.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, add a little olive oil and sauté the onion, carrots, fennel, and garlic over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the vegetables become slightly translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add the flavors: Once the vegetables are ready, add the tomatoes and spices: thyme and saffron. Mix well to combine the flavors. You can use saffron to give the soup a golden color and an unmistakable aroma.

4. Add the fish stock and wine: Pour the fish stock and white wine into the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, covering the pot. Let the vegetables simmer on low heat for 15-25 minutes until they become tender.

5. Including the fish and shrimp: After the vegetables are ready, add the fish fillets cut into suitable pieces and the shrimp. Cover the pot again and let it cook on very low heat (without boiling) for 8-10 minutes. This will ensure that the fish and shrimp remain juicy and do not dry out.

6. Finishing the soup: Finally, add the orange juice to bring a note of freshness and a subtle taste. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serving: Remove the pot from the heat and serve the soup hot, adding a spoonful of crème fraîche or sour cream on top. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for an extra splash of color and flavor.

Practical tips:
- If you want a spicier version, you can add chili flakes during preparation.
- Sicilian fish soup pairs excellently with a slice of garlic toast or a fresh green salad.
- Use seasonal and fresh fish for the best results.
- You can replace the shrimp with mussels or clams, giving the soup a new dimension of flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is rich in protein due to the fish and shrimp, containing a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Additionally, saffron has antioxidant properties, and the orange juice provides a boost of vitamin C, essential for the immune system.

Possible variations:
- You can add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a more varied texture.
- Replace the fish stock with water for a lighter version.
- Experiment with different types of fish: salmon, cod, or sea bream, depending on your preferences.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen fish?
Yes, you can use frozen fish, but make sure to fully thaw it before adding it to the soup.
2. How can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it is recommended to add the shrimp and fresh fish on the day of serving.
3. What wine should I choose for the recipe?
Choose a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which pairs well with the flavors of the soup.

This Sicilian fish soup is not just a recipe, but a culinary experience that will transport you to the seaside, bringing the sun and flavor to your plate. By experimenting with ingredients and flavors, you will discover that cooking can be a true art. Enjoy your meal!