Macedonian Fish Stew
Riblja ฤorba
A comforting and flavorful fish stew, often prepared with carp, catfish, or trout. It features tender fish, vegetables like parsnips and carrots, and is thickened with a simple roux and egg mixture, creating a rich and satisfying dish.

๐ง Ingredients
- 600 g Fish(carp, catfish, or trout, cleaned and cut into pieces)
- 3 liters Water
- 2 medium Parsnips(chopped)
- 2 medium Carrots(chopped)
- 2 Bay leaves
- 100 ml Olive oil
- 4 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 6 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 3 large Eggs
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
In a separate pot, combine the fish pieces, chopped parsnips, chopped carrots, bay leaves, and 3 liters of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the fish is cooked through.
- 2
Carefully remove the cooked fish from the pot, set aside, and flake it into smaller pieces, discarding bones and skin. Strain the cooking liquid, reserving the vegetables.
- 3
In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Gradually whisk the reserved cooking liquid into the roux, a little at a time, ensuring a smooth consistency. Add the cooked vegetables back into the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes.
- 5
In a bowl, whisk the eggs. Slowly ladle about 1-2 cups of the hot broth from the pot into the eggs while whisking constantly to temper them.
- 6
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot with the stew, stirring constantly. Add the flaked fish back into the pot.
- 7
Season the stew with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer gently for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 8
Serve the fish stew hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โUsing a mix of fish can add more depth of flavor to the stew.
- โEnsure the roux is cooked for a minute or two to remove the raw flour taste.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some recipes may include other root vegetables like celery root.
- A touch of white wine can be added for extra flavor.