Slovak Fish Soup (Slovenská Rybacia Polievka)
A comforting and flavorful fish soup, often prepared with white fish, potatoes, and a touch of paprika, reflecting the simple yet hearty nature of Slovak cuisine. It's a dish that can be adapted with various types of fish and often served with crusty bread.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs White fish fillets (e.g., cod, perch, walleye)(cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 3 slices Bacon(diced)
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Paprika(sweet)
- 6 cups Water or Fish Stock
- 4 medium Potatoes(peeled and grated)
- 2 skinned and chopped Tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Marjoram(fresh or dried)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 3 slices Pumpernickel bread(for serving, toasted and cubed)
- 1 tablespoon Butter(for bread)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot, fry the diced bacon until done but not crisp. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
💡 Tip: This renders the fat and adds flavor to the soup base. - 2
Add the chopped onion to the bacon drippings and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Add the fish pieces to the pot and lightly fry them in the drippings for a few minutes until they start to change color.
💡 Tip: Be gentle to avoid breaking up the fish too much. - 4
Stir in the paprika, mixing well. Pour in the water or fish stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- 5
Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Add the grated potatoes, marjoram, salt, and pepper. Simmer partially covered for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and have started to thicken the soup.
- 6
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 10 minutes.
- 7
While the soup simmers, toast the pumpernickel bread slices. Spread with butter, then cut into cubes to make croutons.
- 8
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon and pumpernickel croutons.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using grated potatoes helps to naturally thicken the soup.
- ✓Any firm white fish can be used, including frozen fillets.
- ✓For a richer flavor, use fish stock instead of water.
🔄 Variations
- Add shrimp or clams along with the fish for a seafood medley.
- A dollop of sour cream or a swirl of heavy cream can be added before serving for extra richness.