Craving a vibrant and flavorful Thai-inspired soup? Look no further than this Spicy Tilapia Soup recipe, a perfect blend of spicy, sour, and aromatic elements that will tantalize your taste buds. This isn't your average fish soup; we're diving deep into authentic Thai flavors, using fresh herbs and a perfectly balanced broth to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Imagine tender, flaky tilapia swimming in a rich, spicy broth, infused with the bright citrus notes of lime and the pungent aroma of lemongrass and chilies. It’s a delicious and healthy meal that’s surprisingly easy to make.
This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to crafting this spicy tilapia soup masterpiece, perfect for both experienced cooks and kitchen novices. From preparing the aromatic base to perfectly cooking the tilapia, we'll walk you through each stage, ensuring you achieve a restaurant-quality result in the comfort of your own home. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to Thailand with every spoonful.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Spatula
Ingredients
- Tilapia: 1 kg
- Tapioca flour
- Salt: a handful
- Water
- Vinegar: 2-3 tablespoons
- Lemongrass
- Lime leaves
- Fresh chilies
- Shallots
- Betel leaves
- E-tu/Basil leaves
- Local salt
- Table salt
- Rock salt
- Fish sauce (Mike's)
- Soup cubes (pork or chicken): 1 piece
- Green herb
- Orange leaves (Bai Mong/Chamuang)
- Tamarind pods/leaves or juice
- Fermented fish paste: 2 tablespoons
- Cha-om leaves
- Star gooseberry leaves: 1 handful
- Morning glory
- Chinese kale or basil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Tilapia and Herbs
- Wash and clean the tilapia. Mix tapioca flour, salt, and water; add vinegar and soak for 10 minutes. Rinse 2-3 times to remove fishy smell.
- lightly pound shallots, and gather lemongrass, lime leaves, chilies, betel leaves, E-tu/basil, local salt, table salt, rock salt, fish sauce, soup cube, and green herb.
Step 2. Boil the Broth and Season
- Add water to a pot and heat over medium heat. Once boiling, add soup cube, a pinch of salt, and fermented fish paste (adjust to taste).
- Add 2 tablespoons of fish sauce and boil for 3 minutes to release herbal aromas.
Step 3. Cook the Fish and Herbs
- Add the fish to the boiling water. Do not stir! Wait until it boils again before pressing down gently with a spatula to submerge the fish.
- Add Cha-om leaves and star gooseberry leaves.
Step 4. Add Leafy Greens and Finish
- After boiling, add morning glory, Chinese kale or basil. Press vegetables into the water, then turn off the heat.
Read more: Thai Beef Stew with Rice: A Melts-in-Your-Mouth Recipe
Tips
- For cleaner fish, watch the fish cleaning clip in the old videos.
- Use sourness from orange leaves (Bai Mong/Chamuang), tamarind pods/leaves, or tamarind juice if orange leaves aren't available.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-800
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 60-70g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the tilapia with another type of fish?
Yes! Other firm, white fish like cod, snapper, or catfish work well. Cooking time may need slight adjustment depending on the fish's thickness.
2. How can I adjust the spiciness level?
Control the amount of chili peppers you add. Start with less and add more to your taste. You can also use milder chilies or remove the seeds for less heat.
This Spicy & Sour Boiled Tilapia with Herbs recipe is a testament to the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine, offering a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The balance of spicy, sour, and herbaceous notes creates a truly unforgettable taste experience. Enjoy this authentic Thai delight, and don't hesitate to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to personalize your dish!