Fish And Shrimp Soup Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly comforting dish that blends the richness of seafood with a delightful mix of vegetables, look no further than Fish and Shrimp Soup. This vibrant, mouthwatering dish is an absolute treat for seafood lovers and anyone looking for a nutritious, filling soup that can be enjoyed on any occasion. It’s a perfect combination of tender fish, plump shrimp, and the savory depth of homemade broth, all simmered together to create an irresistible meal.

What makes this recipe truly shine is its versatility. You can tweak the ingredients based on what you have available, the time you have on hand, or your personal preferences. From a light, refreshing version to a creamy, indulgent bowl of goodness, fish and shrimp soup can be whatever you want it to be.

In this post, I’m going to guide you step-by-step through how to make this delightful dish, share tips, variations, and everything you need to know to create the best fish and shrimp soup of your life.

Fish And Shrimp Soup Recipe

This fish and shrimp soup is the epitome of seafood comfort food. The broth is aromatic, rich, and brimming with the natural sweetness of shrimp and the delicate, flaky texture of fish. It’s a perfect balance of flavors, with hints of herbs and spices that elevate the entire dish.

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

Serves: 4-6 people

Ingredients Needed

Before you dive into the cooking process, let’s gather everything you’ll need for this delicious seafood soup:

• Fish Fillets (White Fish) – 500 grams (cod, tilapia, or haddock work beautifully)
• Shrimp – 300 grams, peeled and deveined
• Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons (for sautéing)
• Yellow Onion – 1, finely chopped
• Carrots – 2, peeled and diced
• Celery – 2 stalks, chopped
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Tomatoes – 2 medium-sized, chopped (or a can of diced tomatoes)
• Potatoes – 2 medium, peeled and diced
• Fish Stock or Broth – 4 cups (chicken broth can also work)
• Bay Leaves – 2
• Thyme – 1 teaspoon (fresh or dried)
• Paprika – 1 teaspoon
• Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon (for added brightness)
• Parsley – Fresh, chopped, for garnish
• Salt and Pepper – To taste

Optional Add-ins

• Chili flakes or Cayenne pepper (for a spicy kick)
• Cream (for a creamier, richer version)
• Corn kernels or peas (to add a pop of sweetness)
• Fennel (for a delicate, aromatic flavor)

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get into the fun part: cooking! Here’s how to make this dish step-by-step.

1. Prepare The Seafood

   • Start by cutting the fish fillets into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
   • If your shrimp still have shells, peel and devein them, and then set them aside as well.

2. Sauté The Vegetables

   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they soften.
   • Toss in the garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything starts to soften and become aromatic.

3. Add The Tomatoes And Seasonings

   • Now, stir in the chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned). Let them cook down for about 3-5 minutes until they break down into a saucy consistency.
   • Add the paprika, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir everything to combine.

4. Add The Broth And Potatoes

   • Pour in the fish stock or broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
   • Toss in the diced potatoes, which will help create a heartier, more filling soup. Let everything cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

5. Add The Fish And Shrimp

   • Once the potatoes are soft, add the fish and shrimp to the pot. Gently stir to avoid breaking up the fish.
   • Let the seafood cook in the simmering broth for about 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the shrimp is pink and cooked through.

6. Finish With Seasoning

   • Taste the soup and add salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your liking. The lemon juice adds a lovely brightness that complements the seafood.
   • If you want a creamy version, now’s the time to stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk. For a spicier touch, sprinkle in some chili flakes or cayenne pepper.

7. Serve And Garnish

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot, with a slice of crusty bread or crackers on the side to soak up the delicious broth.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this fish and shrimp soup serves a vital role in enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the dish. Let’s break it down:

• Fish Fillets: White fish fillets like cod, tilapia, or haddock are perfect for this recipe because they have a delicate, flaky texture and mild flavor. They absorb the broth’s flavor well and don’t overpower the shrimp.
• Shrimp: Shrimp adds a lovely sweetness and slight brininess that complements the fish perfectly. The quick cooking time ensures that they remain tender and juicy.
• Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and celery form the “holy trinity” of many soups, giving the base a savory, aromatic depth. Potatoes are added for texture, while tomatoes bring a hint of acidity and a touch of sweetness.
• Herbs and Spices: Bay leaves and thyme bring earthy, herbal notes, while paprika adds warmth and a subtle smokiness. The lemon juice is the secret ingredient that brightens everything up.
• Stock: Using fish stock deepens the seafood flavor, but chicken broth can work in a pinch. The liquid base is where all the flavors come together, so use a good-quality stock for the best results.

Expert Tips

To make this dish even more amazing, here are a few expert tips:

• Use fresh seafood: The fresher the fish and shrimp, the better the flavor. If you can get your hands on freshly caught fish, your soup will be next-level.
• Don’t overcook the seafood: Fish and shrimp cook quickly, so be careful not to let them simmer for too long. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery.
• Make your own broth: If you have the time, homemade fish stock (made from fish bones, heads, and trimmings) will elevate the flavor of your soup exponentially.
• Use a slow cooker: For a more hands-off approach, you can prepare everything in a slow cooker. Add your ingredients, set it on low, and let it cook for 6-8 hours for a deeper, more melded flavor.

Recipe Variations

This fish and shrimp soup is incredibly adaptable. Here are a few ways you can customize it:

• Creamy version: Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier soup.
• Spicy version: Stir in some sliced fresh chili peppers or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. You can even add a dash of hot sauce to taste.
• Curry flavor: For a twist, add curry powder and a bit of coconut milk to give it a tropical, aromatic vibe.
• Herb variations: Switch up the herbs depending on what you like. Dill, basil, or even a touch of rosemary can give the soup a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian version: If you want to make this dish without seafood, you can swap the fish and shrimp for extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and green beans.

Final Words

Fish and shrimp soup is one of those dishes that’s comforting, nourishing, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a celebration of fresh, flavorful seafood, and with the right combination of ingredients, it’s also very customizable. Whether you’re serving it as a light starter or as a full meal, this soup is bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.