This Spicy Fish Soup with Mussels is a hearty, warming dish with the perfect balance of spice, seafood, and rich, savory broth. Made with fresh fish fillets, mussels, garlic, tomatoes, and chili, this soup is ideal for seafood lovers who enjoy a bit of heat. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s easy to make yet impressive in flavor.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Cook time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 60 minutes
Ingredients (for four people)
- 400g white fish fillets (such as cod or snapper) cut into chunks
- 500g fresh mussels, cleaned
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red chili, finely chopped (adjust for desired heat level)
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon paprika (5 ml)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (5 ml)
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 liter fish or vegetable stock
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (15 ml)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (15 ml)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
1 tablespoon is circa 15 ml, and a teaspoon is circa 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and red chili, sautéing until fragrant and the onion becomes soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
Step 2: Build the Broth
Add the diced tomatoes, paprika, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Pour the fish stock, fish sauce, and soy sauce, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Step 3: Add the Fish and Mussels
Add the fish chunks to the broth and simmer gently for 5-7 minutes or until the fish is cooked and flakes easily. Add the mussels in the last 3-4 minutes of cooking, allowing them to open.
Step 4: Serve
Ladle the spicy fish soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. For a fresh citrus kick, serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips and Tricks
- Mussels Freshness: Make sure to discard any mussels that don’t open after cooking.
- Adjusting Spice: Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and chili for a milder version.
Serving Suggestions
- Side of Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
- Rice or Noodles: For a heartier meal, add cooked rice or noodles to the soup.
Wine Pairing
A dry Riesling or Pinot Grigio will complement the spice and seafood flavors.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850 mg
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
About the Spicy Fish Soup with Mussels
This Spicy Fish Soup with Mussels combines the best of fresh seafood with a spicy, flavorful broth. The tender chunks of fish and mussels create a filling meal perfect for seafood lovers. The rich combination of tomatoes, garlic, and spices makes it a warming dish with a perfect kick.
Cultural Context
Seafood soups and stews are common in coastal regions worldwide, and a mix of Mediterranean and Asian flavors inspires this spicy fish soup. European soups often use Mussels and white fish, while adding chili and soy sauce brings an Asian twist. It’s a fusion of both cultures, resulting in a vibrant, flavorful soup perfect for all occasions.
