Coconut Lime Fish Soup

Description:
This Coconut Lime Fish Soup is a tropical-inspired dish that’s both light and creamy, featuring tender fish fillets in a fragrant broth infused with coconut milk, lime, garlic, and ginger. It’s a quick and nutritious one-pot meal perfect for weeknights or when you’re craving something exotic and comforting.

Ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 teaspoons red curry paste (or more, to taste)
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 3 cups fish stock or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for balance)

For the Fish and Vegetables:

• 1 lb white fish fillets (e.g., cod, tilapia, or halibut), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• **1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)

Optional Toppings and Sides:

• Lime wedges
• Cooked jasmine rice or rice noodles
• Crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)

Instructions:

Step 1: Build the Soup Base

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and red curry paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and fish stock, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 2: Season the Broth

1. Stir in the fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed for balance.

Step 3: Add the Fish and Vegetables

1. Add the zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper to the pot. Simmer for 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
2. Gently add the fish pieces to the soup, making sure they are submerged in the liquid. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges on the side.
2. Optional: Pair with jasmine rice or rice noodles for a heartier meal.

Tips for Success:

• Use Fresh Fish: Fresh fish works best for a tender texture and vibrant flavor.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red curry paste to suit your heat preference.
• Enhance the Flavor: Add a touch of lemongrass or kaffir lime leaves to the broth for an authentic Thai flavor.

Serving Recommendations:

• Serve hot with crusty bread or rice to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Pair with a crisp white wine or coconut water for a refreshing combination.

Nutrition (Per Serving, ~4 servings):

Approximate values

• Calories: 310
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 18g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 820mg