Pira Caldo
Pira Caldo is a traditional and comforting Paraguayan fish soup, known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. It typically features firm white fish like surubí, simmered in a flavorful broth with vegetables, and finished with a touch of cream and local cheese.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Surubí fillets(or other firm white fish like dorado, cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 large Onions(finely chopped)
- 1 medium Red bell pepper(finely chopped)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(peeled and chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1.5 l Water
- 200 g Cassava (mandioca)(peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 200 ml Milk
- 150 g Queso Paraguay(crumbled)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
- 1 tbsp Fresh oregano(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
💡 Tip: Ensure vegetables are tender but not browned. - 2
Add chopped tomatoes and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- 3
Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Add the cassava chunks and season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the cassava is tender.
💡 Tip: Cassava should be easily pierced with a fork. - 4
Gently add the fish pieces to the simmering soup. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
💡 Tip: Be careful not to overcook the fish. - 5
Stir in the milk and crumbled Queso Paraguay. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese has melted and the soup is heated through. Do not boil after adding milk and cheese.
💡 Tip: Stir gently to incorporate the cheese without breaking up the fish too much. - 6
Ladle the Pira Caldo into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and oregano before serving.
💡 Tip: Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If surubí is unavailable, other firm white fish like dorado, pacú, tilapia, or cod can be used.
- ✓For a richer flavor, a splash of white wine can be added with the water.
- ✓Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
🔄 Variations
- Some recipes include a bay leaf or a pinch of paprika for added depth of flavor.
- A small amount of cream can be used instead of milk for an even creamier texture.