Antiguan Fish Broth
A light yet flavorful and nourishing broth made with fresh local fish, aromatic vegetables, and herbs. It's a comforting dish often enjoyed for breakfast or as a light meal, showcasing the island's fresh seafood.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Firm white fish fillets(such as snapper, cod, or mahi-mahi, cut into chunks)
- 6 cups Water
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Ginger(grated)
- 1 chopped Celery stalk
- 1 medium Carrot(chopped)
- 3 sprigs Thyme
- 1/2 Scotch bonnet pepper(pierced, or to taste (optional))
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro or parsley(chopped, for garnish)
- for serving Lime wedges
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the water, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped celery, chopped carrot, and thyme sprigs.
💡 Tip: Using fresh ginger and garlic will provide the best flavor. - 2
If using, add the pierced Scotch bonnet pepper to the pot. This will infuse a mild heat into the broth.
💡 Tip: Be careful when handling Scotch bonnet peppers. Remove seeds for less heat. - 3
Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the vegetables and herbs to soften and release their flavors.
- 4
Season the broth with salt and black pepper to taste.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. - 5
Gently add the fish chunks to the simmering broth. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it can become dry.
- 6
Remove and discard the thyme sprigs and the Scotch bonnet pepper (if used).
💡 Tip: Ensure all aromatics are removed before serving. - 7
Ladle the fish broth into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
💡 Tip: A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a bright, refreshing finish.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use the freshest fish available for the best flavor.
- ✓You can add other vegetables like potatoes or sweet potatoes for a heartier broth.
- ✓For a richer broth, a splash of coconut milk can be added towards the end of cooking.
🔄 Variations
- Add a small amount of rice or small pasta shapes to make it a more substantial meal.
- Incorporate other seafood like shrimp or conch along with the fish.
- For a spicier broth, use a whole Scotch bonnet pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.