Caldo de Peixe com Legumes
A hearty and flavorful fish and vegetable soup, a staple in Guinea-Bissau, often prepared with locally sourced fish and a variety of root vegetables and greens. It's known for its comforting and nourishing qualities.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds White fish fillets(such as tilapia, snapper, or sea bass, cut into chunks)
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 medium Sweet potatoes(peeled and cubed)
- 1 pound Cassava (yuca)(peeled and cubed)
- 0.5 head Cabbage(finely chopped)
- 2 large Tomatoes(chopped, or 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes)
- 3 tablespoons Palm oil
- 8 cups Water or Fish Broth
- 0.5 teaspoon Guinea pepper (or chili flakes)(to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 0.25 cup Cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat the palm oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the minced garlic and guinea pepper (or chili flakes) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing them to break down slightly.
- 4
Add the cubed sweet potatoes and cassava to the pot, along with the water or fish broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the root vegetables are tender.
- 5
Add the chopped cabbage and fish chunks to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
- 6
Cover and simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily, and the cabbage is tender.
- 7
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
💡 Tip: Serve hot with a side of rice or crusty bread.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use fish broth instead of water.
- ✓If fresh guinea pepper is unavailable, chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper can be used as a substitute.
- ✓Ensure the fish is not overcooked to maintain its texture.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like okra, carrots, or bell peppers.
- For a spicier soup, increase the amount of guinea pepper or chili flakes.
- Shrimp or other seafood can be added along with the fish.