Riblja Čorba (Serbian Fish Soup)
A vibrant and flavorful fish soup, traditionally made with freshwater fish, vegetables, and a generous amount of paprika. It's a staple in Serbian cuisine, especially in regions near rivers and lakes.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Mixed freshwater fish(e.g., carp, catfish, pike, cut into pieces (heads and bones can be used for stock))
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 2 Carrots(diced)
- 1 Celery stalk(diced)
- 1 Bell pepper(diced (red or green))
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped, or 1 (400g) can diced tomatoes)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp Sweet paprika
- 1 tsp Hot paprika(optional, for heat)
- 1.5 liter Water or fish stock
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley(chopped)
- for serving Lemon wedges
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using whole fish, prepare a stock by simmering fish heads, bones, and tails in water for about 30 minutes. Strain and set aside. If using fish fillets, you can use water or store-bought fish stock.
💡 Tip: Using fish heads and bones adds a deeper flavor to the soup. - 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 3
Add diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 4
Stir in the sweet paprika and hot paprika (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the paprika.
⏱️ 1 minute - 5
Add the chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned) and cook for a few minutes until they break down slightly.
💡 Tip: Using canned diced tomatoes can save time and provide consistent texture. - 6
Pour in the water or fish stock. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Adjust the amount of liquid to achieve your desired soup consistency. - 7
Add the fish pieces to the simmering soup. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily. Avoid overcooking the fish.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 8
Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
💡 Tip: A splash of lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a variety of freshwater fish for a more complex flavor.
- ✓Don't overcook the fish; it should be tender and flaky.
- ✓Adjust the amount of paprika to your spice preference.
🔄 Variations
- Add a splash of white wine for extra depth.
- Some recipes include a small amount of rice or pasta.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.