Coconut Lime Fish Soup

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Coconut Lime Fish Soup

A Tropical, Flavor-Packed Fish Soup Recipe
This Coconut Lime Fish Soup is a vibrant, refreshing dish that combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the bright tang of lime and the gentle heat of red chilies. Tender white fish fillets are gently poached in a fragrant broth with fresh vegetables and finished with a sprinkle of cilantro. It’s light, nourishing, and bursting with tropical flavor—perfect for a healthy dinner or an elegant starter.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (such as cod, snapper, or halibut), cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
  • 1–2 red chilies, sliced (optional, for heat)
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 4 cups fish stock (or chicken broth)
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp lime zest
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 2 tsp sugar
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges, for serving
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
  3. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and red chilies (if using), and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Broth

  1. Pour in the coconut milk, fish stock, fish sauce, and soy sauce. Stir well to combine.
  2. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Seasonings

  1. Add the lime zest, lime juice, sugar, cherry tomatoes, and red bell pepper.
  2. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the soup becomes aromatic.

Step 4: Add the Fish

  1. Gently add the fish pieces to the pot, ensuring they’re submerged in the broth.
  2. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.

Step 5: Final Touches

  1. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lime juice if desired.
  2. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a lime wedge on the side.

Tips for the Best Coconut Lime Fish Soup:

  • Choose Firm Fish: Use sturdy white fish like cod, halibut, or snapper that hold their shape in the broth.
  • Customize the Heat: Add more red chilies or chili flakes for extra spice, or omit for a milder version.
  • Add Extra Veggies: Carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini make great additions to bulk up the soup.
  • Broth Matters: Fish stock adds a deeper flavor, but chicken broth is a good substitute in a pinch.

Why You’ll Love It:

This soup is tropical comfort in a bowl—creamy, citrusy, and subtly spicy. It’s fast, easy, and full of clean, nourishing ingredients. Whether you’re serving it on a warm summer evening or craving a light, cozy meal, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this soup with crusty bread or steamed jasmine rice for a satisfying meal. It also goes wonderfully with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the citrus and coconut notes.

Enjoy the comforting warmth and tropical flair of this Coconut Lime Fish Soup—a recipe that brings the beach to your bowl!

 

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