Fosforera
A robust and spicy Venezuelan seafood soup, known for its rich flavor and generous mix of various seafood. Often considered a potent hangover cure.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1kg Mixed seafood(A combination of firm white fish (like snapper or cod), shrimp, calamari rings, mussels, and clams. Ensure all seafood is cleaned and prepared.)
- 1.5L Fish broth(High-quality fish or seafood stock is recommended for the best flavor.)
- 3 medium Tomatoes(Ripe, red tomatoes, finely diced.)
- 2 medium Bell peppers(One red and one green bell pepper, finely diced. Adjust quantity and type based on desired heat level.)
- 6 cloves Garlic(Minced or finely grated.)
- 1 medium Onion(Finely diced.)
- 1/2 cup Cilantro(Fresh, chopped, for garnish and flavor.)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 Aji dulce or other mild chili pepper(Optional, for a touch of fruity heat without excessive spice. Finely chopped.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- to taste Optional: Pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce(For extra heat.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the sofrito base: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat (approx. 180°C / 350°F). Add the diced onion, bell peppers, and optional aji dulce. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and translucent, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook until they begin to break down and release their juices, forming a thick paste-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 3
Pour in the fish broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce if desired for extra spice.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 4
Add the mixed seafood to the simmering broth. Cook gently until the seafood is just cooked through. This will vary depending on the type of seafood: shrimp will turn pink and opaque, fish will flake easily, and mussels/clams will open. Avoid overcooking, which can make seafood tough. This usually takes 5-8 minutes.
⏱️ 8 minutes - 5
Stir in most of the chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning one last time. Ladle the hot Fosforera into bowls. Garnish with the remaining fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with traditional Venezuelan arepas on the side for dipping.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓This soup is traditionally very spicy; adjust the amount and type of peppers to your preference.
- ✓Considered a classic remedy for hangovers due to its rich, savory, and spicy profile.
- ✓A beloved specialty along the Venezuelan coast, highlighting fresh local seafood.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For an 'extra spicy' version, add more chili peppers or a dash of a spicier hot sauce.
- A 'con coco' (with coconut) variation involves adding a splash of coconut milk towards the end of simmering for a creamier, slightly sweeter broth.