Tianjin-style Fish Soup

Ingredients

In this Tianjin-style adaptation, we incorporate the unique flavors and ingredients of Tianjin cuisine. The addition of fermented soybean paste adds depth and umami to the broth, while the use of Tianjin's preferred spices, such as star anise, enhances the overall flavor profile. The dish is also garnished with fresh cilantro, a common herb in Tianjin cuisine, which adds a refreshing touch to the soup. We alse have the original recipe for Sere de pescado, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) white fish fillets, such as cod or tilapia 500g (1.1 lb) white fish fillets, such as cod or tilapia
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons fermented soybean paste 2 tablespoons fermented soybean paste
• 1 liter (4 cups) fish or vegetable broth 1 liter (4 cups) fish or vegetable broth
• 2 star anise 2 star anise
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 4g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and ginger slices. Sauté until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they start to soften.
3. 3.
   Stir in the fermented soybean paste and cook for another minute.
4. 4.
   Pour in the fish or vegetable broth and add the star anise. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Gently place the fish fillets into the simmering broth and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. 6.
   Season the soup with sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Remove the star anise from the soup.
8. 8.
   Ladle the Tianjin-style Fish Soup into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fish — Choose fresh white fish fillets, such as cod or tilapia, for the best results. Ensure the fish is properly cleaned and deboned before adding it to the soup.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a small amount of Tianjin chili sauce or chili flakes to the soup.
• Serve the soup with steamed rice or crusty bread for a more substantial meal.
• Experiment with different types of fish to find your favorite flavor combination.

Serving advice

Serve the Tianjin-style Fish Soup hot in individual bowls. Accompany it with steamed rice or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

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