Soup > Ethnic > India

Indian Fish Head Soup Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 fish heads (preferably salmon or tilapia)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 6 cups water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Ladle
- Blender or immersion blender

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Clean the fish heads thoroughly and remove the gills and eyes.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the chopped tomato and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and chili powder. Stir well.
6. Add the fish heads and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
7. Add 6 cups of water and bring to a boil.
8. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the fish heads are cooked through and the soup is fragrant.
9. Remove the fish heads from the soup and let them cool slightly.
10. Using a blender or immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth.
11. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
12. Flake the fish meat from the heads and add it back to the soup.
13. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for sautéing, low heat for simmering
Serving size:
4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Fat: 5g
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 400mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Any firm white fish can be used instead of salmon or tilapia.
- Fresh tomatoes can be substituted with canned tomatoes.

Variations:
- Add vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or spinach for a heartier soup.
- Use coconut milk instead of water for a creamier soup.

Tips and tricks:
- Use a fish head with plenty of meat for a more flavorful soup.
- Don't overcook the fish heads, as they can become mushy.

Storage instructions:
Refrigerate leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the soup in individual bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.

Garnishes:
Fresh cilantro leaves

Pairings:
- Serve with naan bread or rice for a complete meal.
- Pair with a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.

Suggested side dishes:
- Indian-style roasted vegetables
- Steamed basmati rice

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more water or broth to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, simmer it for a longer period of time to reduce and thicken it.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to clean the fish heads thoroughly before cooking.
- Store leftover soup in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.

Food history:
Fish head soup is a popular dish in many cultures, including Indian, Chinese, and Scandinavian cuisine. In India, fish head soup is often made with a variety of spices and vegetables, and is considered a nutritious and flavorful dish.

Flavor profiles:
Spicy, savory, fragrant

Serving suggestions:
Serve hot as a main dish or appetizer.

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Region: Indian

Taste: Spicy, Tangy, Savory, Herbal, Aromatic