Zesty Cajun Fish Soup is a flavorful, hearty soup that’s packed with spices, tender fish, and a rich broth. With a perfect balance of Cajun seasoning and fresh ingredients, this soup brings a delightful mix of heat, savory flavors, and a touch of tang. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal!
Ingredients
- 1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or catfish), cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (or to taste)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Season the Soup:
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add the Fish and Corn:
- Add the fish chunks and frozen corn to the pot. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and easily flakes apart with a fork.
- Finish the Soup:
- Stir in the lemon juice for a bright, zesty flavor. Taste again and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice if desired.
Tips:
- Fish Options: Use any mild white fish for this soup. Shrimp can also be added for more variety.
- Make It Spicy: Add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the fish and use additional vegetables or plant-based protein like tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge for 2-3 days and can be reheated. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
This Zesty Cajun Fish Soup will warm you up with its bold flavors, while the fish keeps it light and healthy!