Sopa de Pescado
Venezuelan Fish Soup
A light and flavorful coastal-style fish soup, brimming with tender vegetables and fresh fish. This comforting soup is a staple in Venezuelan coastal regions, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500g Firm white fish fillets(Such as snapper, sea bass, or cod. Cut into 2-inch pieces.)
- 3 Medium tomatoes(Ripe, diced.)
- 3 Medium potatoes(Peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes.)
- 1 bunch Fresh cilantro(Chopped, for garnish and flavor.)
- 1.5 liters Vegetable or fish broth(Low sodium is recommended.)
- 1 medium Onion(Finely chopped.)
- 2 Garlic cloves(Minced.)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the sofrito: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat (180°C / 350°F). Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
⏱️ 8 minutes - 2
Add the diced tomatoes to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to break down and release their juices, about 5 minutes. This forms the flavor base of the soup.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Pour in the vegetable or fish broth and add the cubed potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, approximately 15-20 minutes.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 4
Gently add the fish pieces to the simmering soup. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily. Avoid overcooking the fish, as it can become dry.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 5
Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in half of the chopped cilantro.
⏱️ 1 minute - 6
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish generously with the remaining fresh cilantro before serving.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use the freshest fish possible for the best flavor.
- ✓A light, good-quality broth is key to this soup's delicate taste.
- ✓This is a beloved coastal favorite, often enjoyed on warmer days.
- ✓Adjust seasoning carefully at the end to enhance the natural flavors of the fish and vegetables.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a richer, tropical twist, add a can of coconut milk during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
- Substitute yuca (cassava) for potatoes for a different starchy texture. Adjust cooking time as yuca may take longer to soften.