“A zesty and spicy fish soup bursting with fresh flavors and a comforting warmth.”
This Spicy Lemon Fish Soup combines tender fish, tangy lemon, and a hint of heat for a light yet satisfying dish. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a cozy dinner or a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red chili pepper, finely sliced (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups fish or chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 cup water (optional, for a thinner broth)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Fish and Veggies:
- 1 pound white fish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces (e.g., cod, tilapia, or halibut)
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
For the Lemon Flavor:
- Juice of 2 lemons (about 1/4 cup)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and chili pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Broth
- Add the fish or chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), water (if using), smoked paprika, ground cumin, and red pepper flakes.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Veggies
- Add the carrots and celery to the pot.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Add the Fish
- Gently stir in the fish pieces. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Add Lemon and Herbs
- Stir in the lemon juice and fresh parsley or cilantro.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with thin lemon slices and extra herbs for a bright, fresh touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light and Refreshing: The lemon adds a tangy brightness to the rich broth.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your preference.
- Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and veggies for a healthy meal.
Pro Tips for Success
- Fish Selection: Use firm white fish that holds its shape during cooking.
- Add Seafood: Enhance the soup with shrimp, scallops, or mussels for extra flavor.
- Broth Boost: Add a splash of white wine for a more complex flavor profile.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the fish.
- Freeze: Freeze the broth base without fish, then add fresh fish when reheating.
This Spicy Lemon Fish Soup is the perfect balance of bold flavors and comforting warmth. It’s quick to make and guaranteed to impress with its vibrant taste.
