Sopa de Tomate y Pescado
A flavorful and hearty fish soup with a tomato base, featuring a blend of local spices and fresh vegetables. This dish is a comforting staple, often enjoyed as a main meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs White fish fillets (e.g., cod, tilapia)(cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 medium Red bell pepper(seeded and diced)
- 4 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 6 cups Vegetable broth
- 2 medium Carrots(peeled and sliced)
- 2 medium Potatoes(peeled and cubed)
- 1 Bay leaf
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper
- 1/2 Habanero chili(seeded and pounded to a paste (optional, for extra heat))
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- to taste Salt
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the fish: Cut the white fish fillets into 2-inch pieces. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomato paste darkens slightly.
- 4
Pour in the vegetable broth, add the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, bay leaf, cayenne pepper, and habanero chili paste (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil.
- 5
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
- 6
Gently add the prepared fish pieces to the simmering soup. Cook for another 5-8 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the fish.
- 7
Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- 8
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a spicier soup, leave some seeds in the habanero chili or add more cayenne pepper.
- ✓If you don't have vegetable broth, chicken broth can be used as a substitute.
- ✓Ensure the fish is added towards the end of cooking to prevent it from breaking apart too much.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like zucchini or green beans.
- For a richer flavor, a splash of white wine can be added with the broth.
- Serve with a side of boiled yuca or plantains.