Coconut Lime Fish Soup
Coconut Lime Fish Soup is a vibrant and comforting tropical dish that combines creamy coconut milk, tangy lime, and tender white fish. This simple and versatile soup bursts with fresh vegetables, herbs, and subtle spice, making it a refreshing yet nourishing meal perfect for any season.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Tropical / Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 500g firm, white fish fillets (such as cod or snapper), cut into chunks
- 400ml full-fat coconut milk
- 1 lime, juiced and zested
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 500ml fish stock or broth
- 1–2 tsp chili flakes or 1 fresh chili, sliced (optional)
Herbs and Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Additional lime wedges
- Toasted coconut flakes (optional)
- Thin slices of red chili (optional)
Optional Variations
- Shrimp, scallops, or firm tofu instead of fish
- Sliced fresh jalapeños or chili paste for added heat
- Mint, Thai basil, or rosemary as alternative herbs
- Coconut cream to substitute part of the coconut milk for richer texture
- Hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots for a stew-like version
- Prepare the broth base: Gently sauté minced garlic and ginger in a splash of oil until fragrant. Add chopped onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes and cook until softened. Pour in fish stock and coconut milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer to meld the flavors.
- Add fresh lime and seasoning: Stir in the fresh lime juice and lime zest. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes or fresh chili if using, to balance the creaminess with bright acidity and a spicy kick.
- Cook the fish: Gently add the fish fillets to the simmering soup. Poach for 5-7 minutes until just cooked through, depending on thickness. Avoid overcooking to keep the fish tender and flaky.
- Finish with fresh herbs: Turn off the heat and stir in chopped cilantro, basil, or your chosen herbs. The residual heat will release their aroma while keeping the freshness intact.
Notes
- Use fresh lime juice instead of bottled for the best citrus flavor.
- Do not overcook the fish to keep it tender and flaky.
- Choose full-fat coconut milk for a creamier, richer soup.
- Taste the soup as you cook and adjust lime, salt, and spice gradually to your preference.
- Add fresh herbs at the end to maintain bright, fresh flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 300ml)
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: coconut lime fish soup, tropical fish soup, creamy fish soup, gluten free soup, light fish stew, coconut milk soup