Clear Fish Soup

Clear Fish Soup Recipe from Russia with Smelts and Vegetables

Region / culture: Russia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Clear fish soup is a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for a warm summer day or as a starter for a multi-course meal. This soup is made with a combination of fresh vegetables, smelts, and aromatic herbs, resulting in a clear and delicate broth that is both comforting and satisfying.

History

Clear fish soup has been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. It is often served as a traditional dish during holidays and special occasions. The recipe has evolved over time, with different regions adding their own unique twist to the dish. In some cultures, clear fish soup is believed to have healing properties and is often served to those who are feeling under the weather.

Ingredients

1 onion
1 carrot
1 parsley root
1 leek (white part only)
1 parsnip
1 tsp salt
1 lb (454 g) fresh or frozen smelts
10 whole black peppercorns
2 – 3 bay leaves

How to prepare

Combine the vegetables, salt, and 2 qt (1.89 liters) of water in a 4 qt pot.
Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 30 minutes, partially covered.
Add the smelts, peppercorns, and bay leaves, then return to a boil and simmer for 20 minutes, partially covered.
Strain the stock, discard the vegetables and solids.
Taste the broth for salt, remove bay leaves, and use as directed in the following recipes.

Variations

You can add additional vegetables such as celery, bell peppers, or tomatoes to the soup for added flavor and nutrition.
For a heartier version, you can add cooked rice or pasta to the soup.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh or frozen smelts for the best flavor in this soup.

- Simmering the vegetables and fish slowly will help to develop a rich and flavorful broth.

- Taste the broth before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.

- For a more intense flavor, you can add additional herbs and spices to the soup.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the clear fish soup hot with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the vegetables and fish slowly will help to develop a rich and flavorful broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find smelts, you can use another small, mild-flavored fish such as trout or perch.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the broth ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

This soup pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

150 per serving

Carbohydrates

10g per serving

Fats

2g per serving

Proteins

20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as potassium and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and may not be suitable for those with seafood allergies.

Summary

This clear fish soup is a nutritious and low-calorie dish that is rich in protein and vitamins. It is a healthy option for those looking to enjoy a light and flavorful meal.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Clear Fish Soup. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little cottage by the sea. Maria was known for her delicious seafood dishes, and that day she decided to teach me one of her most treasured recipes.

As we sat in her kitchen, surrounded by the salty breeze coming in from the open windows, Maria began to explain the ingredients and techniques needed to make the perfect Clear Fish Soup. She told me that the key to this dish was using the freshest fish possible, along with a delicate blend of herbs and seasonings.

Maria's eyes sparkled with excitement as she recounted how she had learned this recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. She told me stories of her childhood spent by the sea, learning the art of cooking from her beloved grandmother, and how each spoonful of Clear Fish Soup brought back memories of those simpler times.

As Maria guided me through the steps of preparing the soup, I watched in awe as she moved gracefully around the kitchen, effortlessly chopping vegetables and filleting the fish with precision. She showed me how to infuse the broth with the flavors of fresh parsley, dill, and a hint of lemon zest, creating a fragrant and light base for the soup.

As the soup simmered on the stove, filling the air with its enticing aroma, Maria and I sat down to enjoy a bowl together. The moment I took my first spoonful, I was transported to a world of flavors and memories. The tender pieces of fish melted in my mouth, while the broth danced on my taste buds, leaving a lingering warmth and satisfaction.

From that day on, Clear Fish Soup became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, special occasions, or simply when I wanted to savor a taste of the sea. Each time I prepared it, I would think back to that sunny afternoon with Maria, and how she had shared with me not just a recipe, but a piece of her heritage and love for cooking.

Over the years, I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different types of fish, herbs, and seasonings. But no matter how many variations I try, the essence of the Clear Fish Soup remains the same – a simple, yet elegant dish that captures the essence of the sea in every spoonful.

As I sit here now, stirring a pot of Clear Fish Soup on my stove, I can't help but smile at the memories it brings back. The laughter shared with Maria, the taste of the salty sea in every bite, and the joy of passing down this recipe to future generations. In every spoonful of this soup, I taste not just the flavors of the sea, but the love and tradition that have been woven into its very essence. And for that, I am forever grateful.