Fish Ball Soup

Fish Ball Soup Recipe - Authentic Singaporean Flavor

Region / culture: Singapore | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Fish ball soup is a popular dish in many Asian countries, known for its flavorful broth and tender fish balls. This recipe is a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion.

History

Fish ball soup has been a staple in Asian cuisine for centuries, with variations of the dish found in countries like China, Thailand, and Malaysia. The dish is believed to have originated in China, where it was traditionally made with fish paste and served in a clear broth. Over time, different regions have added their own unique ingredients and flavors to create their own versions of fish ball soup.

Ingredients

1 kg of catfish
1 medium-sized onion
6 cloves of garlic
0.5 inch of ginger
1 stalk of celery
1.5 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of pepper
0.5 tsp of soy sauce
1 tbsp of oil
5 cups of water

How to prepare

Wash and clean the fish.
Debone and skin the fish, keeping aside the bones, head, and tail of the fish.
Finely chop the onion, garlic, and ginger.
Wash and finely chop the celery stalk.
In a blender, grind the fish, 0.5 tsp of salt, and 0.5 cup of water into a paste.
Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and set aside.
In a soup pot, heat water.
Add the fish head, tail, and center bone.
Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes.
Remove from the heat and strain the liquid.
In a saucepan, heat the oil.
Add the garlic and fry for 3 minutes until the garlic is golden brown.
Add the celery, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and fish balls.
Lower the heat to medium and cook for 3 minutes.
Add the strained liquid and bring to a boil.
Lower the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Serve hot.

Variations

Add vegetables like bok choy, carrots, or mushrooms to the soup for extra nutrients and flavor.
Use different types of fish, such as cod or tilapia, to make the fish balls.
Spice up the broth with chili peppers or chili oil for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to debone and skin the fish properly to ensure a smooth and uniform texture for the fish balls.

- Grinding the fish with a small amount of water helps to bind the mixture together and create a firm fish ball.

- Fry the garlic until golden brown to enhance its flavor and aroma in the soup.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or soy sauce as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Fish ball soup can be served as a main dish with steamed rice or noodles on the side. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Grinding the fish with water helps to create a smooth and uniform texture for the fish balls.

- Simmering the fish head, tail, and bones in the broth adds depth of flavor to the soup.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any white fish, such as tilapia or cod, in place of catfish for the fish balls.

- Substitute vegetable broth for water for a vegetarian version of the soup.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the fish balls in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.

- The broth can also be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the fish ball soup in individual bowls garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of soy sauce. - Arrange the fish balls and vegetables in the soup in an attractive and appetizing manner.

Pairing Recommendations

Fish ball soup pairs well with a side of steamed rice or noodles.

- Serve with a side of pickled vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover fish ball soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of fish ball soup contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of fish ball soup contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of fish ball soup contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of fish ball soup contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Fish ball soup is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and soy, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Fish ball soup is a nutritious and protein-rich dish that is low in carbohydrates and fats. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy meal option.

Summary

Fish ball soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is easy to make at home. With its flavorful broth and tender fish balls, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this nutritious and satisfying meal for lunch or dinner!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, the sun was shining brightly, and the smell of freshly cut grass filled the air. I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that I had collected over the years when I stumbled upon a faded piece of paper with the words "Fish Ball Soup" written in elegant script.

As I held the recipe in my hands, memories of my childhood came flooding back to me. I remembered sitting in my grandmother's kitchen, watching her cook with such grace and skill. She would always say that the key to a delicious dish was using fresh ingredients and cooking with love.

I knew that I had to try my hand at making the Fish Ball Soup recipe. I gathered all the ingredients listed on the recipe - fresh fish, eggs, breadcrumbs, vegetables, and seasonings. I could almost hear my grandmother's voice guiding me through each step of the recipe as I carefully prepared the fish balls and chopped the vegetables.

The aroma of the soup simmering on the stove filled the kitchen, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and nostalgia. As I ladled the hot soup into bowls and garnished it with fresh herbs, I knew that this recipe was a treasure that I would cherish forever.

I remember the first time I tasted the Fish Ball Soup. The flavors were a perfect balance of savory and delicate, with the fish balls tender and flavorful. It reminded me of the meals my grandmother used to make, simple yet full of love and warmth.

Over the years, I have made the Fish Ball Soup recipe countless times, each time adding my own twist and variations. Sometimes I would use different types of fish or add extra vegetables for a heartier soup. Other times, I would experiment with different seasonings to create a unique flavor profile.

One of my favorite memories of making the Fish Ball Soup was when my grandchildren came over to visit. They had never tasted the soup before, and I was excited to share this family recipe with them. As they sat around the table, eagerly waiting for the first bite, I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction and joy.

Their faces lit up with delight as they tasted the soup, and I knew that I had passed down a piece of our family history to the next generation. It was a moment of connection and tradition, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover the Fish Ball Soup recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of cooking that has been passed down through generations. I am thankful for the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, learning from her wisdom and love.

The Fish Ball Soup recipe is more than just a dish - it is a symbol of family, tradition, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. And as I continue to cook and create memories in the kitchen, I know that this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart.