Escape to the sun-drenched shores of the Caribbean with this vibrant and flavorful fish soup recipe! Imagine a warm bowl filled with tender fish, fragrant vegetables, and a zesty broth that sings of sunshine and the sea. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, bringing the delicious tastes of homemade cooking to your table. It's one of those healthy meals that's both satisfying and surprisingly quick to prepare, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups fish stock (or chicken broth for a milder flavor)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 pound firm white fish fillets (cod, snapper, or tilapia work well), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Build the broth: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), fish stock, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Add the fish: Gently add the fish fillets to the simmering broth. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the fish tough.
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Finish and serve: Stir in the cilantro and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a lime wedge.
Tips for the Best Caribbean Fish Soup:
- Fresh fish is key: Using high-quality, fresh fish will significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder soup, omit it entirely.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. Chopped potatoes would also be a delicious addition.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this delicious soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Variations:
- Coconut milk: For a creamier, richer soup, stir in 1/2 cup of coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Shrimp or scallops: Substitute shrimp or scallops for the fish, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Shrimp cooks much faster than fish.
- Spicy kick: Add a finely chopped scotch bonnet pepper for an extra fiery Caribbean touch. Be cautious, as these peppers are extremely hot!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Caribbean fish soup recipe is a delightful and healthy meal, perfect for those seeking delicious dishes and easy recipes. Enjoy this taste of the islands from the comfort of your own home! It's a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor, making it one of the best recipes for a quick, satisfying, and healthy dinner.