Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Cut the fish fillets into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel and set aside.
  2. Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. Slice the carrots and red bell pepper into thin strips.
  3. Zest and juice the lime, keeping them separate for use at different stages of cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive or coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Broth

  1. Add the chicken or fish stock to the pot and bring it to a simmer.
  2. Stir in the coconut milk, fish sauce, and soy sauce (if using), mixing well to combine.
  3. Add the lime zest and season the broth with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

  1. Add the sliced carrots and red bell pepper to the simmering broth.
  2. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.

Step 5: Cook the Fish

  1. Gently add the fish pieces to the soup. Ensure they’re submerged in the liquid.
  2. Reduce the heat to low and let the fish poach for 5–7 minutes, or until it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it can become tough.

Step 6: Add Lime and Seasonings

  1. Stir in the fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of red chili flakes or sliced chili (if using).
  2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more fish sauce, salt, or lime juice as desired.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
  2. Serve the soup as-is for a lighter dish, or pair it with cooked rice or rice noodles for a heartier meal.
  3. For extra flair, add a lime wedge to each bowl for squeezing just before eating.

Tips for Perfect Coconut Lime Fish Soup:

  1. Choose Fresh Fish: Opt for firm, white fish that holds its shape well when cooked. Avoid overly delicate fish that may fall apart in the soup.
  2. Customize the Vegetables: Swap carrots and peppers for zucchini, bok choy, or mushrooms based on your preferences or what’s in season.
  3. Don’t Overcook the Fish: Add the fish toward the end of the cooking process to ensure it remains tender and flaky.
  4. Add Heat Sparingly: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a small amount of chili and adjust gradually.
  5. Make Ahead: The soup’s broth can be prepared ahead of time, and the fish and fresh lime juice can be added just before serving for maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love It

Coconut Lime Fish Soup is a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together in a comforting, tropical-inspired dish. Its creamy texture and tangy, citrusy undertones make it a standout option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Light, flavorful, and nutritious, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Give it a try, and enjoy a bowl of tropical paradise right at your table!