Creamy Croatian Fish Soup

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) oslić (hake), filleted and cut into bite-sized pieces 500g (1.1 lb) oslić (hake), filleted and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 liter (4 cups) fish stock 1 liter (4 cups) fish stock
• 250ml (1 cup) heavy cream 250ml (1 cup) heavy cream
• Juice of 1 lemon Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
2. 2.
   Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat.
3. 3.
   Gradually pour in the fish stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. 4.
   Add the oslić (hake) pieces to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
5. 5.
   Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. 6.
   Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
7. 7.
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Oslić (hake) — Ensure the fish is fresh and of high quality for the best flavor. If oslić is not available, you can substitute it with other white fish such as cod or haddock.

Tips & Tricks

• For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
• Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Feel free to add other seafood such as shrimp or mussels for a more diverse flavor profile.
• Make a double batch and freeze the leftovers for a quick and delicious meal on a busy day.

Serving advice

Serve the Creamy Croatian Fish Soup hot in individual bowls. Accompany it with a side of crusty bread for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.

Presentation advice

Garnish each bowl of soup with a sprig of fresh parsley to add a pop of color. Serve the soup in beautiful ceramic bowls to enhance the visual appeal.