RecipesSenegalSope de Poisson (Fish Soup)

Sope de Poisson (Fish Soup)

A flavorful and hearty fish soup, often made with a variety of fish and vegetables, seasoned with aromatic spices. This dish is a comforting staple, particularly in coastal regions.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Servings5
DifficultyEasy
Sope de Poisson (Fish Soup) - Senegal traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 500 g White fish fillets(such as snapper, cod, or sea bass, cut into 2-inch pieces)
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
  • 1 large Onions(chopped)
  • 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
  • 1 tsp Ginger(freshly grated)
  • 1 tbsp Tomato paste
  • 400 g Canned diced tomatoes(undrained)
  • 1 liter Fish stock or water
  • 2 medium Carrots(peeled and sliced)
  • 2 medium Potatoes(peeled and cubed)
  • 0.25 small Cabbage(shredded)
  • 1 Bay leaf
  • 1 tsp Thyme(dried)
  • Salt(to taste)
  • Black pepper(freshly ground, to taste)
  • Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Season the fish pieces with salt and pepper.

    💡 Tip: Seasoning the fish beforehand enhances its flavor.
  2. 2

    Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

  3. 3

    Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

  4. 4

    Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

  5. 5

    Add the diced tomatoes, fish stock (or water), carrots, potatoes, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.

  6. 6

    Add the shredded cabbage and cook for another 5 minutes until slightly tender.

  7. 7

    Gently add the seasoned fish pieces to the soup. Cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.

    💡 Tip: Be careful not to overcook the fish.
  8. 8

    Remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

    💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning carefully.
  9. 9

    Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Use a firm white fish that holds its shape well.
  • Don't overcook the fish; it cooks quickly.
  • Adjust the amount of vegetables to your preference.
  • For a richer flavor, use homemade fish stock.

🔄 Variations

  • Add other seafood like shrimp or mussels.
  • Include a pinch of chili flakes for a touch of heat.
  • A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors.

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