Fish and Shrimp Soup, also known as Ukha, is a traditional dish that brings the flavors of the sea into your kitchen. This hearty soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients from its fresh ingredients. With tender pieces of fish and succulent shrimp simmered in a flavorful broth, it’s a dish that warms the soul. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; it’s easy to prepare yet delivers an impressive taste that will delight your family or guests. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal during chilly evenings or a light option on warm days, Fish and Shrimp Soup serves as the perfect choice. In just under an hour, you can whip up this delicious dish that highlights the freshness of seafood combined with aromatic herbs. Get ready to impress your palate with this delightful blend of flavors!
Why You’ll Love This Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha)
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha)
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh White Fish: Choose firm white fish like cod or halibut for a meaty texture that holds up well in soup.
- Shrimp: Opt for large shrimp; they add sweetness and texture to the soup.
- Vegetable Broth: A good-quality vegetable broth enhances the flavor base without overpowering the seafood.
- Carrots: Cut into slices; they provide natural sweetness and color to the dish.
- Potatoes: Diced potatoes add heartiness; use waxy varieties for better texture.
- Onion: Chopped onion adds depth; sauté it until translucent before adding other ingredients.
- Dill: Fresh dill gives an aromatic herbal note that complements the seafood beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Ajoutez une touche d’élégance à vos repas avec cette recette.
How to Make Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha)
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a large pot over medium heat, sauté chopped onions in olive oil until they become translucent. This usually takes about five minutes.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Stir in sliced carrots and diced potatoes into the pot. Cook them together with onions for another five minutes until they start to soften.
Step 3: Pour in Broth
Add vegetable broth to the pot along with water if needed. Bring it to a boil while stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Incorporate Seafood
Once boiling, gently add pieces of fresh white fish followed by shrimp. Allow everything to simmer for about ten minutes until cooked through.
Step 5: Season It Right
Season your soup with salt, pepper, and freshly chopped dill. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with extra dill if desired. Enjoy it warm alongside crusty bread.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the shrimp in lemon juice before adding them to the soup
Dégustez cette suggestion originale pour une explosion de saveurs.
How to Serve Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha)
This Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha) is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the broth and chop vegetables a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This saves time on cooking day while enhancing flavors.
- Storing: Leftover Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha) can be stored in airtight containers for up to three days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags, which will last up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat until steaming, about 10-15 minutes. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Essayez cette version légère et savoureuse pour un repas sain.
Suggestions for Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha)
Avoid Using Frozen Seafood
Using frozen seafood can significantly affect the taste and texture of your Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha). Fresh seafood provides a more robust flavor and better texture, making your soup truly delightful. If you must use frozen products, ensure they are properly thawed and rinsed to remove ice crystals. Pay attention to the source of your seafood; quality matters! Check local markets or fishmongers for fresh options. If you’re unable to find fresh fish or shrimp, consider buying seafood that was flash-frozen shortly after being caught. Always remember that freshness is key to a delicious Ukha.
Skipping the Broth Preparation
A common mistake is not investing time in preparing a flavorful broth. The broth is the backbone of your Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha). To create depth of flavor, start with high-quality fish stock or make your own using fish bones, herbs, and vegetables. Simmer this mixture for at least an hour to extract all the essential flavors. Avoid using plain water as it dilutes the taste of your soup. Adding aromatic vegetables like onion, garlic, and carrots will enhance the overall profile of the broth. Remember, a well-prepared broth sets the stage for an amazing soup experience.
Overcooking Seafood
Overcooking seafood is a common misstep when making Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha). Seafood cooks quickly, so it’s crucial to monitor cooking times carefully. Typically, fish should be cooked for about 5-7 minutes, while shrimp takes only 3-5 minutes until they’re pink and opaque. Overcooked seafood becomes rubbery and loses its delicate flavor. To avoid this, add seafood towards the end of cooking your soup, allowing it just enough time to cook through without losing its tenderness. This practice ensures that every bite in your soup remains succulent.
Neglecting Seasonings
Many home cooks overlook the importance of seasonings in their Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha). Proper seasoning elevates flavors and balances the dish’s overall taste profile. Start by adding salt early in the cooking process but be cautious not to overdo it; you can always adjust later. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley complement seafood beautifully; add them near the end for freshness. Experiment with spices like black pepper or a pinch of paprika to enhance complexity without overpowering the natural flavors of your ingredients. Remember that careful seasoning makes all the difference in achieving a well-rounded dish.
Testez cette préparation idéale pour une soirée entre amis.
FAQs
What is Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha)?
Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha) is a traditional Russian dish known for its light yet flavorful broth made from various types of fish and shellfish like shrimp. This hearty soup often features aromatic vegetables such as onions, carrots, and sometimes potatoes, creating a delightful base that brings out the ocean’s essence. Traditionally enjoyed as a comforting meal during colder months, Ukha can also be adapted with different spices and herbs to suit personal preferences or local ingredients available.
How do I choose the best fish for my Ukha?
Choosing the right fish is crucial for making an authentic Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha). Opt for firm-textured varieties such as salmon, cod, or pike that hold up well during cooking. Freshness is paramount; look for clear eyes, vibrant skin color, and a mild sea smell when selecting whole fish at markets. You can also ask your local fishmonger for recommendations based on seasonal catches or inquire about sustainable options that align with environmentally friendly practices.
Can I customize my Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha)?
Absolutely! One of the joys of making Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha) lies in its versatility. You can customize this dish by adding different types of seafood such as clams or mussels alongside fish and shrimp. Feel free to experiment with various vegetables according to your taste preferences—try adding zucchini or bell peppers for more color and nutrition! Adjust seasonings based on what you have on hand; adding saffron or lemon zest can impart unique flavors while enhancing authenticity.
How long does Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha) last?
Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha) typically lasts about 2-3 days when stored correctly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh due to seafood’s perishable nature. Reheating should be done gently over low heat to prevent overcooking any remaining seafood components. If you plan to keep leftovers longer than three days, consider freezing portions without any added dairy products or seasonings; this helps preserve flavor while extending shelf life.
Ajoutez une touche de raffinement avec cette recette incontournable.
Conclusion for Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha)
In summary, crafting an unforgettable Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha) involves several key steps: selecting fresh seafood, preparing a rich broth, monitoring cooking times carefully, seasoning thoughtfully, avoiding common mistakes such as overcooking or neglecting flavors enhances this classic recipe’s appeal immensely. Embrace experimentation with various ingredients while respecting traditional methods—it’s all part of creating a uniquely satisfying dish! By following these guidelines closely while adapting them according to personal preferences ensures that every bowl brings warmth during cold days ahead.

Fish and Shrimp Soup (Ukha)
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Fish and Shrimp Soup, or Ukha, is a cherished Russian dish that transports you straight to the sea with its delightful flavors. This comforting soup features tender pieces of fresh white fish and juicy shrimp, swimming in a rich vegetable broth infused with aromatic dill. The addition of vibrant carrots and hearty potatoes not only enhances the dish’s color but also adds layers of flavor and texture. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a light meal on warm days, this easy-to-make recipe takes under an hour from start to finish. Impress your family and friends with this nutritious and satisfying bowl of goodness that embodies traditional Russian cuisine.
Ingredients
- Fresh white fish (cod or halibut)
- Large shrimp
- Vegetable broth
- Carrots
- Potatoes
- Onion
- Fresh dill
Instructions
- Sauté chopped onions in olive oil over medium heat until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add sliced carrots and diced potatoes; cook for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil while stirring occasionally.
- Add fresh fish pieces followed by shrimp; simmer for about 10 minutes until cooked through.
- Season with salt, pepper, and freshly chopped dill to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional dill if desired.
Notes
Customize flavors by adding vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
For deeper seafood flavor, marinate the shrimp in lemon juice before cooking.
Pair the soup with crusty bread or rice for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Russian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Leave a Comment