Ah, seafood soup! Just saying the words makes my heart warm. There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of this deliciousness, especially on a chilly evening. I remember my grandmother used to make a huge pot of seafood soup whenever we visited her. The rich, savory aroma would fill the kitchen, and we could hardly wait to dive in! This seafood soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. With tender shrimp, scallops, and flaky fish swimming in a flavorful broth, it truly warms the soul. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become a beloved tradition in your own home, too. Let’s get started on this comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients List
Getting the right ingredients for this seafood soup is key to its comforting flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, and fish) – Look for fresh or frozen options; both work beautifully!
- 4 cups fish stock – This is the backbone of our soup. If you want a lighter version, low-sodium fish stock is a great choice.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes – Fresh or canned, these add a lovely sweetness and depth to the soup.
- 1 onion, chopped – This adds a wonderful base flavor. Don’t rush this step; let the onions soften and become fragrant.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – A must for that savory punch! Feel free to add more if you love garlic like I do.
- 1 cup carrots, sliced – They bring a bit of sweetness and color to your soup.
- 1 cup celery, diced – This gives a nice crunch and flavor. Make sure to chop it finely!
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – A sprinkle of this herb adds warmth and earthiness.
- 1 bay leaf – Just one will do! Remember to take it out before serving.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Seasoning is everything, so adjust according to your taste.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – This is for sautéing your veggies and adds a touch of richness.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a bowl of warmth that’s not only delicious but also nourishing! Let’s dive into the next steps.
How to Prepare Seafood Soup
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s jump into making this delightful seafood soup! It’s easier than you might think, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro by the time you’re done. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the olive oil: Start by pouring the olive oil into a large pot over medium heat. Let it warm up for a minute—this is where all the magic begins!
- Sauté the vegetables: Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these lovely veggies for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant. You want them to be tender but not browned, so keep an eye on them!
- Add the tomatoes and herbs: Next, stir in the diced tomatoes, dried thyme, and the bay leaf. This is where the soup starts to take shape! Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle together beautifully.
- Pour in the fish stock: Now, it’s time to add the 4 cups of fish stock. Give it a gentle stir and bring everything to a boil. This is where the aroma starts filling your kitchen—oh, it’s heavenly!
- Simmer: Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to deepen and develop. Take a moment to enjoy that comforting smell wafting through your home!
- Add the seafood: After 15 minutes, it’s time to add your mixed seafood. Gently stir it in and let it cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and tender. You’ll know it’s ready when the shrimp turns pink and the fish flakes easily.
- Season to taste: Don’t forget to taste your soup before serving! Add salt and pepper according to your preference. Remember, a little goes a long way!
- Remove the bay leaf: Finally, make sure to fish out that bay leaf before serving. It’s done its job, but we don’t want anyone biting into it!
And there you have it! A warm, soothing bowl of seafood soup that’s ready to enjoy. You’ll feel so accomplished, and I can’t wait for you to taste it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting & Cozy: This seafood soup is like a warm blanket on a chilly night. The rich flavors and hearty ingredients will wrap you in comfort.
- Simple to Make: With just a few easy steps, you can create a delicious dish that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
- Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with seafood, veggies, and wholesome fish stock, this soup is not just tasty but also a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the seafood or add your favorite veggies. It’s a flexible recipe that can adapt to your taste or dietary needs.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup fits beautifully into any setting, bringing everyone together around the table.
Tips for Success
To make your seafood soup truly shine, here are some handy tips that I’ve learned over the years:
- Freshness Matters: If you can, use fresh seafood for the best flavor. But don’t worry if fresh isn’t available; frozen seafood works just fine and is often more convenient!
- Chop Evenly: When prepping your vegetables, try to chop them into similar sizes. This ensures they cook evenly and gives your soup a lovely texture.
- Taste as You Go: Don’t be shy about tasting your soup throughout the cooking process. Adjust the seasoning as needed—everyone’s palate is different!
- Experiment with Herbs: If you want to switch things up, feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or dill at the end for a burst of flavor!
- Let it Rest: If you have time, let your soup sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a seafood soup that’s not just good, but truly spectacular! Enjoy every moment of the process!
Nutritional Information
Before we dig into that delicious seafood soup, let’s talk about the nutrition! Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. On average, each serving of this comforting soup contains:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 3g
This seafood soup is not only delicious but also a nourishing option for your meals. Enjoy the comfort and warmth while knowing you’re treating your body well!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your seafood soup, a few simple side dishes can elevate the entire meal! I love serving it with warm, crusty bread or a soft baguette, perfect for dipping into that rich broth. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also pairs beautifully, as it adds a nice crunch and balances the soup’s warmth. If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream on top can add an extra layer of flavor. Trust me, these sides will enhance your dining experience and have everyone coming back for more!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your seafood soup is quite simple, and it’ll taste just as delightful when you reheat it! Start by letting the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Just be sure to leave some space in the container for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid boiling, as it can toughen the seafood. Enjoy your lovely leftovers safely!
FAQ Section
Can I use different seafood? Absolutely! You can customize your seafood selection based on what you like or have on hand. Crab, mussels, or even clams would be a lovely addition!
What if I don’t have fish stock? No worries! You can use vegetable broth or even chicken broth in a pinch. Just remember, it will slightly change the flavor but will still be delicious.
Can I add more veggies? Yes, feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy! Spinach, kale, or bell peppers would be fantastic additions for added nutrition and color.
How do I know when the seafood is cooked? The seafood is done when the shrimp turns pink and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it; overcooking can make it tough!
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Certainly! This soup can be made a day ahead. Just reheat gently on the stove, being careful not to overcook the seafood again.
Print
Comforting Seafood Soup: A Heartwarming 7-Step Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting seafood soup that warms the soul.
Ingredients
- 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, and fish)
- 4 cups fish stock
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, thyme, bay leaf, and fish stock.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add mixed seafood and cook until done, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove bay leaf before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use low-sodium fish stock.
- Substitute fresh seafood with frozen if necessary.
- Add greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: seafood soup, easy soup, comfort food