Sopa de Peixe Santomense
A hearty and flavorful fish soup, typical of São Tomé and Príncipe, made with a variety of fresh fish, vegetables, and aromatic herbs.
🧂 Ingredients
- 800 g Assorted Fresh Fish(e.g., grouper, snapper, cut into chunks)
- 3 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 medium Onions(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 3 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 1 red Bell Peppers(chopped)
- 1 medium Carrot(chopped)
- 2 medium Potatoes(peeled and diced)
- 6 cups Fish Broth(or water)
- 1 Bay Leaf
- 0.25 cup Cilantro(chopped)
- Salt(to taste)
- Black Pepper(freshly ground, to taste)
- 1 small Piri-piri pepper(optional, for heat)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the fish chunks with salt and pepper. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Using a variety of fish adds depth of flavor. - 2
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened.
- 3
Add minced garlic, chopped tomatoes, bell pepper, and carrot. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
- 4
Stir in the diced potatoes and bay leaf. Pour in the fish broth (or water).
💡 Tip: If using water, you may want to add a fish bouillon cube for extra flavor. - 5
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- 6
Gently add the seasoned fish chunks to the simmering soup. If using, add the piri-piri pepper.
💡 Tip: Be careful not to stir too vigorously after adding the fish to prevent it from breaking apart. - 7
Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
- 8
Stir in the chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
💡 Tip: Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot.
- ✓If you prefer a spicier soup, add more chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne.
- ✓This soup can also be served with a side of rice or crusty bread.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a handful of small shrimp or mussels along with the fish.
- Incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or green beans.