Imagine a soup so vibrant and delicate that it transports you straight to the bustling street markets of Southeast Asia with just one spoonful. This Fish with Green Papaya Soup is not just a meal, it's a culinary journey that combines the tender flakiness of fresh fish with the subtle, crisp texture of green papaya in a soul-warming broth that will make your taste buds dance with excitement. Perfect for those seeking a light yet incredibly satisfying dish that's both nutritious and incredibly easy to prepare.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g fish (e.g., tilapia or trout)
- 1 small green papaya, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 liter chicken stock
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by cleaning the fish, removing any scales and bones. Cut the fish into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Peel the green papaya carefully, removing the skin and seeds. Dice the papaya into uniform small cubes to ensure even cooking.
- In a large pot, heat the chicken stock over medium-high heat until it begins to simmer gently.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the simmering stock. Stir and allow them to release their aromatic flavors for about 3-4 minutes.
- Carefully add the diced green papaya to the pot. Let it cook for approximately 8-10 minutes until the papaya becomes slightly tender but not mushy.
- Season the broth with fish sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the liquid.
- Gently add the fish pieces to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the broth. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 5-7 minutes until the fish is fully cooked and flakes easily.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more fish sauce or pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil for added freshness and aroma.
- Serve hot, accompanied by steamed rice if desired, and enjoy the delicate flavors of this Asian-inspired soup.
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm white fish like tilapia or trout for the best texture and flavor absorption.
- When cutting the green papaya, ensure uniform cube sizes for even cooking and consistent texture.
- Don't overcook the fish - it should be just barely done and flake easily to maintain its delicate texture.
- Use homemade chicken stock if possible for a richer, more complex flavor profile.
- Fresh herbs are key - cilantro or Thai basil can elevate the entire dish's aromatic quality.
- For added depth, consider adding a small piece of ginger or a dash of chili for subtle heat.
- Serve immediately after cooking to preserve the soup's vibrant flavors and optimal temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
