Zivju Solanka Recipe

Zivju Solanka is a hearty and flavorful fish soup that brings together the richness of salmon and the subtle tang of tomatoes. This comforting dish is well-suited for cozy dinners or family gatherings. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, Zivju Solanka is a wonderful dish that captures the essence of Eastern European culinary traditions. The main element of this soup comes from a fresh, aromatic broth made from fish and spices. It is thickened with potatoes and enriched with tuna, offering a satisfying and substantial meal. This dish not only warms the soul but also provides a nutritious option packed with flavors. Its vibrant taste profile makes it a beloved choice for fish lovers and those looking to explore new culinary experiences. The recipe is versatile, allowing for variations that can accommodate different dietary needs.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• Salmon head
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 bunch of dill
• 2 onions
• 4 potatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 can tuna in its own juice or oil

Preparation Time

• Total: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Broth: Start by placing the salmon head in a large pot with the bay leaves, black pepper, and salt.
2. Cook the Broth: Add water to the pot and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until you have a fragrant and flavorful broth.
3. Strain the Broth: Remove the salmon head and strain the broth to remove any bones or impurities.
4. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
5. Cook the Potatoes: Add the potato cubes to the broth and let them cook until they are nearly tender.
6. Sauté the Onions: While the potatoes are cooking, finely chop the onions and sauté them in a pan with a little oil until golden brown.
7. Add Tomato Paste: Mix the tomato paste into the onions and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Combine with Broth: Add the onion and tomato mixture into the pot with the broth and potatoes.
9. Simmer Together: Let the mixture simmer until the potatoes are fully cooked.
10. Add the Tuna: Drain the tuna if necessary and add it to the soup, breaking it into smaller chunks as desired.
11. Final Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer briefly, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
12. Finish with Dill: Chop the dill and add it to the soup just before serving for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
13. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper if necessary.
14. Serve: Serve hot, garnished with additional dill if desired.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, you can add a dash of smoked paprika.
• Use fresh dill for the best results; dried dill can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
• If you prefer a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Use canned salmon or mackerel as an alternative to tuna for a different flavor profile.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 20g
• Fats: 8g
• Carbs: 25g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the salmon head and tuna. Use vegetable broth and add more vegetables like carrots and celery.
• Low Sodium: Reduce the amount of salt and use low-sodium tomato paste.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all canned ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast.
• Pair with a light green salad for a complete meal.
• Add a dollop of sour cream on top for an extra creamy texture.

Best Places

1. Café Fish - Known for its innovative seafood dishes. Location: 123 Ocean Drive, Cape Town, South Africa.
2. Salmon Bistro - Offers a wide range of fish soups. Location: 45 River Street, Dublin, Ireland.
3. The Fish Market - A bustling spot for fresh seafood dishes. Location: 98 Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, USA.
4. Nordic Flavors - Combines traditional and modern seafood cuisine. Location: 715 Sea Lane, Oslo, Norway.
5. Baltic Bites - Celebrates Eastern European flavors. Location: 60 Baltic Avenue, Riga, Latvia.
6. Fins & Feathers - Specializes in ocean-inspired meals. Location: 109 Beach Road, Sydney, Australia.
7. Maritime Delights - Known for a variety of fish soups. Location: 32 Marine Street, Lisbon, Portugal.
8. Ocean View Café - Offers stunning sea views with its meals. Location: 48 Shore Lane, Santorini, Greece.
9. Fisherman's Table - Cozy spot with a focus on fresh ingredients. Location: 77 Dock Place, Auckland, New Zealand.
10. Harbor House - Combines classic and contemporary seafood. Location: 101 Sea Avenue, Halifax, Canada.