Dive into a culinary adventure with this authentic Sour Cabbage Fish Head Soup recipe, a comforting and flavorful dish that's surprisingly easy to make. This vibrant soup, a staple in many Asian cuisines, boasts a delightful tangy broth infused with the rich essence of succulent fish head and the slightly sour notes of fermented cabbage. The perfect balance of savory and tart flavors will tantalize your taste buds, creating a heartwarming and satisfying meal perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. Forget complicated recipes; this one is surprisingly straightforward and delivers big on taste.
Beyond its deliciousness, this Sour Cabbage Fish Head Soup offers a wealth of nutritional benefits. The fish head is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while the sour cabbage provides probiotics for gut health. Ready to experience the magic? Let's embark on a step-by-step journey to create your own delicious bowl of Sour Cabbage Fish Head Soup.
Tools Needed
- Pot
Ingredients
- Fish head and tail
- Sour Dong Du cabbage
- Tomatoes
- Turmeric
- Salt
- Wine
- Ginger
- Pickles
- Pickle juice
- Spices/Flour
- Turmeric powder
- Chili
- MSG
- Fish sauce
- Northern soy sauce (optional)
- Green onions
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Fish and Aromatics
- Wash the fish head and tail thoroughly with diluted salt water and a little wine and ginger.
- Add a layer of tomatoes and crushed turmeric for fragrance and to reduce fishy smell.
- Place the prepared fish head and tail on top of the tomatoes.
- Add another layer of pickles and a little pickle juice to further reduce fishy smell.
- Add spices (flour, turmeric powder).
Step 2. Layer and Season
- Layer the bottom of the pot with sour cabbage. If not too sour, no need to wash.
- Add enough water to cover the fish.
- Add chili to reduce fishy smell.
- Season with usual spices, fish sauce, and optional soy sauce.
Step 3. Simmer the Soup
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for about half an hour until fish is soft and flavors have melded.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Before turning off the stove, add green onions.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes until herbs are cooked. Turn off the heat.
Read more: Vietnamese Sweet & Sour Fish Soup: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe
Tips
- Using turmeric helps prevent fishy smell and enhances color.
- Simmering for about half an hour allows the fish to release its sweetness and the pickles to soften.
- This method is simple and doesn't require elaborate cooking steps.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 10-15g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of fish instead of fish head?
Yes, you can substitute with firm white fish fillets like cod or snapper. Just adjust cooking time as needed; fillets cook faster than a fish head.
2. What if I don't have fermented sour cabbage? Can I use regular cabbage?
While the sour cabbage provides the signature tang, you can use regular cabbage. To mimic the sourness, add a tablespoon or two of rice vinegar or lemon juice to the broth.
This fragrant and easy Sour Cabbage Fish Head Soup recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and healthy meal that's surprisingly simple to prepare. Enjoy the comforting warmth and delightful flavors of this culinary gem, perfect for any occasion. Now go ahead and impress your friends and family with this delicious recipe!