Coconut Lime Fish Soup

#### Instructions:

**Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics**
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, sliced carrot, and chopped celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

**Step 2: Add the Liquids**
1. Pour in the coconut milk and fish stock (or vegetable broth) and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the turmeric, lime juice, and lime zest. If you’re using chili flakes or fresh chili for heat, add them now.
2. Allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld together. Taste the broth and season with salt, pepper, and fish sauce (if using) as needed.

**Step 3: Add the Fish**
1. Add the fish pieces to the pot, gently stirring to distribute them throughout the soup. Let the soup simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
2. Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it can become tough and rubbery. The fish should cook quickly in the hot broth.

**Step 4: Garnish and Serve**
1. Once the fish is cooked, taste the soup again and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you want a tangier soup, feel free to add a little more lime juice or zest.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. Serve with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing.
3. Enjoy your Coconut Lime Fish Soup with a side of crusty bread or a light salad if desired.

### Tips for the Perfect Coconut Lime Fish Soup

– **Use Fresh Fish**: For the best flavor, use fresh fish fillets. White fish like tilapia, cod, or snapper work beautifully, but feel free to swap with any fish you prefer, such as salmon or even shrimp.

– **Adjust the Heat**: If you like your soup spicy, add more chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

– **Make it Creamier**: If you prefer a richer, creamier soup, use full-fat coconut milk. For a lighter version, opt for light coconut milk or a combination of coconut milk and vegetable broth.

– **Add Veggies**: Feel free to add more vegetables to the soup for extra flavor and texture. Bell peppers, zucchini, or baby spinach would all make great additions.

– **Fish Sauce**: While optional, a splash of fish sauce adds a unique depth of umami flavor to the soup. It’s a common ingredient in many Southeast Asian dishes and enhances the overall savory profile of the soup.

– **Make Ahead**: This soup is great for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

### Conclusion

The **Coconut Lime Fish Soup** is a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s full of tropical flavors, creamy coconut milk, and bright lime zest. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner or a flavorful appetizer, this soup fits the bill. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and packed with delicious ingredients that will transport you to a warm, sunny paradise.

With its balance of savory, tangy, and mildly spicy flavors, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. So grab your ingredients, simmer up a pot of this delightful soup, and enjoy a delicious, tropical meal right at home!