Riblja Čorba sa Dimljenom Ribom (Smoked Fish Soup)
A robust and flavorful fish soup, this Serbian specialty features smoked fish that imparts a deep, savory character to the rich broth. Packed with vegetables and seasoned with paprika, it's a comforting and hearty soup often enjoyed during fasting periods or as a warming meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Smoked fish(e.g., smoked mackerel, trout, or carp, flaked)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil or lard
- 2 large Onions(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 medium Carrots(diced)
- 1 medium Parsnips(diced)
- 2 medium Potatoes(diced)
- 1 medium Red bell pepper(diced)
- 400 g Tomatoes(canned diced, or 3 fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped)
- 2 tbsp Sweet paprika
- 0.5 tsp Hot paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1.5 l Water or fish/vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 0.25 cup Fresh parsley or dill(chopped, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges(for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat the oil or lard in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
💡 Tip: Using lard can add a traditional depth of flavor. - 2
Add the minced garlic, diced carrots, and parsnips. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 3
Stir in the sweet paprika, hot paprika (if using), and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
💡 Tip: Cooking the paprika briefly helps to release its flavor and color. - 4
Add the diced potatoes, diced red bell pepper, and canned diced tomatoes (or fresh chopped tomatoes). Stir to combine.
- 5
Pour in the water or broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
💡 Tip: Ensure the vegetables are cooked through but not mushy. - 6
Add the flaked smoked fish to the pot. Stir gently.
💡 Tip: Be careful not to break up the fish too much. - 7
Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 8
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley or dill.
💡 Tip: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors. - 9
Serve immediately with crusty bread or cornbread on the side.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The type of smoked fish used will significantly impact the soup's flavor. Experiment with different varieties.
- ✓For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot.
- ✓This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated; the flavors often deepen overnight.
🔄 Variations
- Some recipes include a roux (flour and butter mixture) to thicken the soup.
- A splash of white wine can be added with the broth for extra complexity.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped chili pepper.