Fish Soup Provençale

Fish Soup Provençale Recipe - A Taste of France

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Fish Soup Provençale is a delicious and flavorful dish that originates from the Provence region of France. This soup is a perfect combination of fresh fish, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, creating a light and satisfying meal.

History

Fish Soup Provençale has been a traditional dish in Provence for centuries. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own twist to the dish. This soup is often served as a starter or main course in French households and restaurants.

Ingredients

8 oz (227 g) fresh or frozen skinless and boneless haddock or halibut fillets
1 small fennel bulb
3 cups low-sodium vegetable stock
1 cup chopped onion
1 medium-sized chopped zucchini
1 cup dry white wine
1 tbsp grated orange peel
2 cloves chopped garlic
2 cups chopped tomatoes or 1 x 14 oz (397 g) can of chopped tomatoes (undrained)
2 tbsp fresh thyme plus extra for garnish

How to prepare

Thaw the fish if it is frozen. Rinse it well and pat it dry with a paper towel.
Cut the fish into 1 inch pieces and set them aside.
Remove the upper stalks of the fennel bulb and slice off the bottom. Rinse it thoroughly and cut it in half.
Thinly slice the fennel halves lengthwise.
In a large saucepan, combine the fennel, vegetable stock, onion, zucchini, white wine, orange peel, and garlic.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes.
Stir in the fish, tomatoes, and thyme into the broth and cook for about 4 – 5 minutes, or until the fish becomes flaky when tested with a fork. Serve the dish garnished with extra chopped thyme.

Variations

Add shrimp or mussels for a seafood medley soup.
Use different herbs such as parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.
Add a splash of cream or coconut milk for a creamy version of the soup.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh fish for the best flavor. You can use any white fish fillets such as halibut, cod, or snapper.

- Be sure to simmer the soup gently to avoid overcooking the fish.

- Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes to customize the soup to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Fish Soup Provençale with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup gently to avoid overcooking the fish.

- Use a sharp knife to cut the fish into even pieces for even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any white fish fillets such as cod, snapper, or tilapia instead of halibut.

- Substitute chicken or vegetable broth for the vegetable stock.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the soup in a bowl with a slice of lemon on the side.

Pairing Recommendations

Fish Soup Provençale pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Fish Soup Provençale contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Fish Soup Provençale contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Fish Soup Provençale contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Fish Soup Provençale contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Fish Soup Provençale is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium.

Alergens

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

Summary

Fish Soup Provençale is a nutritious and well-balanced meal that is low in calories and high in protein. It is a great option for those looking to eat a healthy and satisfying meal.

Summary

Fish Soup Provençale is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and satisfying meal. This soup is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and herbs. Enjoy this flavorful dish with family and friends for a taste of Provence.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first saw this recipe for Fish Soup Provençale. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Marie in the charming village of Provence. Marie was a talented chef, and I always looked forward to learning new recipes from her.

That day, as we strolled through the bustling farmers market, Marie suddenly stopped in front of a stall selling freshly caught fish. She picked up a beautiful red snapper and declared that we would be making Fish Soup Provençale for dinner that evening. I had never heard of this dish before, but the name alone filled me with excitement.

Back at Marie's cozy kitchen, she began to teach me the secrets of making this traditional Provençal dish. She explained that the key to a delicious Fish Soup Provençale was in the quality of the ingredients and the slow simmering of the broth. As she chopped onions, garlic, and tomatoes, the fragrant aroma filled the room and made my stomach growl in anticipation.

Marie taught me how to carefully sear the fish in a hot skillet before adding it to the simmering broth. She explained that this step would help to lock in the flavors and create a rich, savory base for the soup. As we stirred the pot together, I felt a sense of connection to the generations of Provençal cooks who had perfected this recipe over the years.

As the soup bubbled away on the stove, Marie shared with me the story of how she had learned to make Fish Soup Provençale from her own grandmother. She described how her grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, painstakingly preparing each ingredient by hand and infusing the dish with love and care. Marie's eyes sparkled with pride as she spoke of her grandmother's culinary skills and the joy that this dish brought to their family gatherings.

As we sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor, I took my first spoonful of the Fish Soup Provençale. The flavors exploded on my taste buds – the tender fish, the robust tomatoes, the fragrant herbs – all coming together in perfect harmony. I could taste the history and tradition in every bite, and I felt a deep sense of gratitude for Marie and her grandmother for sharing this recipe with me.

From that day on, Fish Soup Provençale became a staple in my own kitchen. I would often make it for family gatherings and dinner parties, always telling the story of how I had learned the recipe from my dear friend Marie in the picturesque village of Provence. I cherished the memories of that summer day and the sense of connection that this dish brought to my cooking.

And so, as I pass on this recipe for Fish Soup Provençale to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will feel the same sense of anticipation and excitement that I did when I first learned to make it. May you savor each spoonful and remember the love and tradition that is woven into every bite. Bon appétit!