Description
This Coconut Lime Fish Soup is a delicate and flavorful dish that combines tender white fish chunks simmered in a creamy coconut milk broth, infused with bright lime juice, fresh ginger, garlic, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, it offers a harmonious balance of tropical creaminess and zesty citrus tones.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Broth
- 1 pound white fish fillets, cut into chunks
- 2 cups fish stock or broth
Soup Base
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
Aromatics and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large shallot, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro or Thai basil
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped shallot, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger to the pot. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and softened but not browned to build the soup’s flavor base.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in 2 cups of fish stock, increasing the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to develop the broth’s depth.
- Incorporate Coconut and Seasonings: Stir in the can of coconut milk, 1 tablespoon fish sauce, 2 tablespoons lime juice, and 1 teaspoon lime zest. Season the mixture with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper to balance flavors.
- Simmer the Soup: Allow the soup to simmer for 5–7 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully together while preparing the fish adds its delicate taste.
- Cook the Fish: Gently add the fish chunks into the simmering soup. Cook for an additional 4–5 minutes, or until the fish turns opaque and is cooked through, ensuring tenderness and moisture.
- Adjust Seasonings and Serve: Taste the soup and modify salt or pepper if needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or Thai basil for a bright herbal finish. Serve immediately with optional lime wedges or steamed rice on the side.
Notes
- Use fresh white fish like cod, snapper, or halibut for the best texture.
- Ensure not to overcook the fish to keep it tender and flaky.
- Freshly grated ginger and lime zest significantly enhance the vibrant flavor.
- Can be served with steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles for a complete meal.
- Adjust fish sauce and salt to taste, especially if your broth is already salted.
