Are you craving a warm, comforting, and incredibly flavorful soup that's also healthy and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Norwegian Fish Soup recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the stunning fjords of Norway. Packed with fresh fish, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy, aromatic broth, this is a delicious dish perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s one of those easy recipes that's sure to become a family favorite, a true testament to the magic of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fish stock (or vegetable stock for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1 tsp dried dill
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 lb cod, haddock, or other white fish, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup peeled and deveined shrimp (optional)
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds the flavor foundation of our delicious dish.
Step 2: Build the Flavorful Broth
Pour in the fish stock (or vegetable stock), milk or cream, dried dill, thyme, black pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it gently simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This is where the magic of homemade cooking truly shines.
Step 3: Add the Fish and Shrimp
Add the fish pieces to the simmering broth. If using, add the shrimp during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, as shrimp cooks quickly. Cook until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, about 5-7 minutes. Overcooking will result in dry, tough fish, so keep a close eye on it!
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the fresh parsley and season with salt to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a delightful brightness, and you can also garnish with extra fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation.
Cooking Tips for the Best Fish Soup:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade fish stock. You can easily make your own by simmering fish bones and scraps with vegetables in water.
- Don't overcook the fish! Overcooked fish will be dry and tough. Cook it just until it's opaque and flakes easily.
- Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as potatoes, leeks, or zucchini.
- If you don't have fresh herbs, you can use a combination of dried herbs instead.
Variations:
- Spicy Fish Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Creamy Fish Soup: Use heavy cream instead of milk for an extra rich and creamy texture.
- Hearty Fish Soup: Add cooked pasta or rice to make this soup even more filling.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Norwegian Fish Soup recipe is a delightful example of healthy meals that are both easy and delicious. It’s a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this taste of the fjords!