This bright and zesty coconut lime fish soup is a treat! With fresh fish, creamy coconut milk, and a splash of lime, it’s both delicious and refreshing.
I love how quick it is to make! Just toss everything together, and you’ll have a bowl of sunshine in no time. Perfect for those busy weeknights! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Fish: Cod, haddock, and halibut are great choices for this soup. They have a mild flavor and firm texture. If you can’t find them, try tilapia or even shrimp for a different twist!
Coconut Milk: This provides the creamy base for the soup. Light coconut milk works if you’re watching calories. Alternatively, use almond milk for a lighter version, though it won’t have the same richness.
Red Chili: Adjust the level of heat based on your taste. If you prefer less spice, use a bell pepper instead. For more heat, add extra chili or a dash of hot sauce.
Fresh Ginger: Ginger adds a bright flavor. If fresh isn’t available, try 1/2 tsp of ground ginger. Just remember, it won’t be as potent!
Herbs: Fresh cilantro or parsley brighten the dish. If you’re not a fan, you could skip it or use green onions for a different flavor.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in the Soup?
To maximize the flavor in your fish soup, focus on sautéing your vegetables first. This step enhances their flavors and builds the base of your soup. Here’s how:
- Cook onion, garlic, celery, and bell pepper in oil over medium heat for about 5 minutes until soft.
- Adding spices like ginger, turmeric, and cumin at this stage releases their essential oils, making them aromatic.
- Don’t rush this step! Allowing the vegetables to soften really sets the foundation for a delicious soup.
After adding the liquids, give the soup a gentle boil to blend the flavors, then simmer to cook the fish thoroughly.
Enjoy making your zesty coconut lime fish soup!
Easy Zesty Coconut Lime Fish Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or halibut), cut into chunks
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 2 cups fish or vegetable broth
- 1 red chili, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
- 1 lime, juiced and zested (reserve some of the zest for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley leaves for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This soup requires about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook. So, in about 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and refreshing bowl of coconut lime fish soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil or coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced celery, and chopped red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften and the onion turns translucent.
2. Add Spices and Chili:
Next, stir in the grated ginger, turmeric powder, ground cumin, and sliced red chili. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to release their fragrant aromas.
3. Combine Liquids:
Now, pour in the coconut milk and fish or vegetable broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This will create a rich, flavorful base for your soup.
4. Cook the Fish:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and carefully add the fish chunks to the pot. Allow it to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and easily flakes apart with a fork.
5. Season the Soup:
Stir in the fresh lime juice and lime zest. Taste your soup and season with salt and black pepper according to your preference. This lime addition will brighten the flavors beautifully!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the pot from the heat. Ladle your soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh cilantro or parsley and some extra lime zest on top. This not only looks beautiful but adds a vibrant flavor as well.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your soup hot, accompanied by lime wedges for an even zesty kick. Each spoonful is a tropical delight—perfect for warming you up or refreshing your day!
Enjoy your refreshing and flavorful coconut lime fish soup! 🍲🌿🍋
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Fish for This Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen fish! Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly in the refrigerator overnight or submerge it in cold water for quick thawing. Pat it dry before adding it to the soup to avoid excess water diluting the flavor.
How Do I Adjust the Spice Level?
You can easily customize the spice level! Use less red chili or omit it entirely for a milder soup. If you prefer more heat, add extra sliced chili or a dash of hot sauce towards the end of cooking.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stove. Note that the fish may become slightly softer upon reheating, but the flavors will still be delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You might want to add a splash of broth to refresh the consistency.
