Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon red curry paste (or ½ teaspoon paprika for a milder version)
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder (for color and depth)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (15 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 2 cups vegetable or fish broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 pound white fish (cod, halibut, tilapia), cut into chunks
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Optional Garnishes:
- Extra lime wedges 🍋
- Fresh basil or cilantro 🌿
- Sliced jalapeños for spice 🌶
- Drizzle of chili oil for extra heat 🔥
- Toasted coconut flakes 🥥
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat coconut oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic, ginger, red curry paste, turmeric, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to become fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Broth
- Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable or fish broth, stirring well.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes, allowing them to soften slightly.
Step 3: Cook the Fish
- Gently add the fish chunks to the pot.
- Let the soup simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flaky.
- Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it should remain tender.
Step 4: Add Lime & Herbs
- Remove from heat and stir in lime juice, lime zest, and fresh cilantro.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, lime, or spice if needed.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or sliced jalapeños.
- Serve hot with steamed rice, crusty bread, or enjoy it as is.
Notes
Tips for the Best Coconut Lime Fish Soup
✔ Use Fresh, High-Quality Fish – Look for firm white fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Fish – Simmer gently to keep the fish moist and tender.
✔ Balance the Flavors – Adjust lime, salt, and spice levels to suit your taste.
✔ Add Vegetables – Try mushrooms, bell peppers, or baby spinach for extra nutrients.
✔ Make It Spicier – Add sliced jalapeños, extra curry paste, or a drizzle of hot sauce.