Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp coconut oil or olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1-2 red chilies, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 4 cups (1 liter) fish or vegetable broth
- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
- 1 1/2 lbs (700g) firm white fish (e.g., cod, halibut, or snapper), cut into chunks
- 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: cooked rice or rice noodles for serving
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant and softened (about 3 minutes).
- Add the Veggies and Spices:
- Stir in the bell pepper, red chilies (if using), and turmeric. Cook for another 2 minutes to release the flavors.
- Create the Broth:
- Pour in the fish or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the coconut milk and let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes.
- Add the Fish and Tomatoes:
- Carefully place the fish chunks into the simmering soup. Add the cherry tomatoes.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
- Season and Brighten:
- Stir in the fish sauce, lime juice, and lime zest.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
- Serve as is or over a bed of cooked rice or rice noodles for a heartier meal.
Do’s and Don’ts
DO:
- Use firm white fish; it holds its shape well in the soup.
- Adjust the level of chili to your heat tolerance.
DON’T:
- Boil the fish—it’ll turn tough and rubbery. Keep the heat gentle.
- Skip the lime zest; it adds an extra punch of citrus flavor.
Pro Tips:
- Add shrimp or scallops along with the fish for a seafood medley.
- Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for added texture and a tropical vibe.
This Coconut Lime Fish Soup is a tropical getaway in a bowl. The creamy coconut milk, zesty lime, and tender fish come together in a symphony of flavors that’ll have you dreaming of sandy beaches and sunshine. 🥥🐟🍋