Trinidadian Fish Broth
A hearty and nourishing soup, Trinidadian Fish Broth (often pronounced 'brof') is a staple in local cuisine, known for its comforting qualities and rich flavor derived from fresh fish, an abundance of root vegetables, and aromatic herbs. It's a complete meal in a bowl, often enhanced with soft dumplings.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 lbs Firm white fish (e.g., snapper, kingfish, barracuda)(cut into steaks or large chunks)
- 1 whole Lime(for washing fish and juice)
- 12 cups Water
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 6 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Ginger(minced (optional))
- 0.5 cup Green Seasoning(a blend of herbs like chives, cilantro, parsley, thyme, culantro (shado beni))
- 6 sprigs Thyme
- 2 medium Carrot(peeled and sliced)
- 2 stalks Celery(chopped)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 2 large Potatoes(peeled and cubed)
- 2 medium Sweet Potatoes(peeled and cubed)
- 2 medium Green Figs (green bananas)(peeled and chopped)
- 1 lb Eddoes(peeled and cubed)
- 1 lb Cassava (yuca)(peeled and cubed)
- 1 whole Hot Pepper(optional, for infusing flavor)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1 tsp Black Pepper(or to taste)
- 2 cups All-purpose flour(for dumplings (optional))
- 1 tsp Salt(for dumplings)
- 1 tsp Sugar(for dumplings)
- 0.5 cup Water(for dumplings)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Wash the fish thoroughly with lime juice and water, then rinse and drain. Season the fish with salt, black pepper, and half of the green seasoning. Marinate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight.
- 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil (optional) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrot, and chopped celery. Sauté for about 5-8 minutes until softened.
- 3
Add the minced garlic, ginger (if using), chopped tomatoes, thyme sprigs, and the remaining green seasoning. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the tomatoes begin to break down.
- 4
Add the cubed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green figs, eddoes, and cassava to the pot. Pour in the water and add the whole hot pepper (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the root vegetables are fork-tender but still hold their shape.
- 5
Gently add the seasoned fish to the pot. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily. Avoid over-stirring to prevent the fish from breaking apart too much.
- 6
While the fish is cooking, prepare the dumplings (if using). In a bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Gradually add water, mixing to form a firm dough. Knead briefly, then roll small pieces between your hands into desired shapes (e.g., small balls or logs). Add the dumplings to the simmering broth during the last 10 minutes of cooking, or cook them separately in boiling water and add at the end.
- 7
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the whole hot pepper before serving if desired.
- 8
Ladle the fish broth into bowls, ensuring each serving has plenty of fish and vegetables. Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using fish heads and bones can add extra depth of flavor to the broth.
- ✓Adjust the amount of hot pepper to your spice preference. For a milder flavor, keep it whole and remove before serving.
- ✓Ensure root vegetables are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- ✓Don't overcook the fish, as it can become dry and crumbly.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other ground provisions like dasheen or yam.
- Substitute dumplings with small pasta shapes like macaroni.
- Some prefer a tangier broth and add extra lime or lemon juice at the end.