Bulgarian Fish Stew
Ribena Chorba
A flavorful and hearty fish stew, often prepared with freshwater or saltwater fish, simmered with a variety of vegetables, herbs, and spices. It can be enhanced with a roux or an egg-sour milk mixture, offering a comforting taste of the Bulgarian coast.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg White fish fillets(such as cod, haddock, carp, or tilapia; cut into large chunks)
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 3 Carrots(diced)
- 3 medium Potatoes(peeled and cubed)
- 1 Red bell pepper(diced)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 400 g Tomatoes(canned, diced, or fresh, chopped)
- 1.5 liters Fish or vegetable broth
- 1 bunch Lovage(chopped (or celery leaves))
- 0.5 cup Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 0.25 cup Dill(chopped (optional))
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 0.5 tsp Dried thyme
- 0.5 tsp Dried oregano
- 1 Bay leaf
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- 2 tbsp Butter(for roux (optional))
- 2 tbsp All-purpose flour(for roux (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the diced carrots, cubed potatoes, and diced red bell pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 3
Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add the diced tomatoes (and their juice) and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 5
Pour in the fish or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- 6
Add the chopped lovage, parsley, and dill (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
💡 Tip: Lovage provides a unique, slightly celery-like flavor that is characteristic of some Bulgarian fish soups. - 7
Gently add the fish chunks to the simmering soup. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the fish.
- 8
Stir in the lemon juice just before serving.
💡 Tip: For a thicker, richer soup, you can prepare a roux by melting butter in a small pan, whisking in flour, and cooking for 1-2 minutes. Then, gradually whisk in some of the hot soup liquid before adding it back to the main pot. - 9
Serve the fish stew hot, garnished with extra fresh parsley and dill. It's traditionally served with crusty bread or sometimes rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a firm white fish that holds its shape well during cooking.
- ✓If using fish heads or bones to make your own broth, strain it well before using.
- ✓Some variations include a topping of beaten eggs mixed with sour milk or yogurt, added at the end of cooking.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like leeks, celery root, or peas.
- Include a pinch of saffron for color and flavor.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.