Coconut Lime Fish Soup

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📝 Description:

A fragrant and comforting soup combining tender fish fillets simmered in creamy coconut milk with bright lime, fresh herbs, and a hint of spice. Perfect as a light meal or appetizer with a tropical twist.

🌍 Origin:

Inspired by Southeast Asian flavors, particularly Thai and Vietnamese coastal cuisines, this soup highlights fresh seafood, coconut milk, and citrus for a balanced, aromatic dish.

🥄 Ingredients (Serves 4):

  • 1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or snapper), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1-2 red chili peppers, sliced (optional for heat)
  • 4 cups (1 liter) fish or vegetable stock
  • 1 can (14 oz/400ml) coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian option)
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

🌿 Optional Ingredients:

  • Fresh basil or mint leaves for garnish
  • Sliced green onions
  • Lime wedges for serving

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

  1. Sauté aromatics:
    Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, ginger, and chili peppers. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and soft.
  2. Add stock and coconut milk:
    Pour in fish or vegetable stock and coconut milk. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Add vegetables:
    Stir in mushrooms and red bell pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until vegetables soften.
  4. Add fish:
    Gently add fish pieces. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until fish is opaque and flakes easily.
  5. Season:
    Stir in lime juice and fish sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Finish and serve:
    Remove from heat. Stir in fresh cilantro. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.

💡 Tips for Success:

  • Use firm white fish that holds up well to gentle cooking.
  • Adjust chili peppers to control spiciness.
  • Fresh lime juice added at the end keeps the bright citrus flavor vibrant.
  • Don’t overcook the fish to keep it tender.

📌 Recommendation:

Serve with steamed jasmine rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

🔍 Nutrition (Per serving approx.):

Calories: 280 | Fat: 18g | Carbs: 10g | Protein: 20g | Sugar: 4g | Sodium: 600mg

Want a vegan or spicier variation?

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