Tilapia fish soup with basil, also known as "Sup Ikan Nila Kemangi" in Indonesian cuisine, is a delightful and aromatic dish that combines the freshness of tilapia fish with the fragrant essence of basil leaves. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also nourishing and packed with flavors. Here's how you can make it:
Ingredients:
- 500g tilapia fish fillets, cut into chunks
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves (kemangi), roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 stalk lemongrass, smashed
- 2 red chilies, sliced (optional for added heat)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups water or fish broth
- Cooking oil
Instructions:
Heat a tablespoon of cooking oil in a pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sliced onions. Sauté until fragrant and onions are translucent.
Add diced tomatoes and lemongrass stalk. Cook until tomatoes are softened.
Pour in water or fish broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add tilapia fish chunks to the simmering broth. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until the fish is opaque and cooked through.
Season the soup with fish sauce, soy sauce, salt, and pepper according to your taste preference.
Stir in the chopped basil leaves and sliced red chilies (if using). Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
Once done, remove the lemongrass stalk from the soup.
Serve the tilapia fish soup hot in bowls, garnished with additional basil leaves on top.
Tips:
- Use fresh tilapia fish for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the spiciness by adding or reducing the amount of red chilies.
- For a richer flavor, you can use fish broth instead of water.
- Be cautious with the fish cooking time to prevent it from becoming overcooked and rubbery.
Variations:
- Replace tilapia with other types of white fish like cod or snapper.
- Add vegetables such as bok choy, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
- Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or parsley if basil is not available.
Nutritional Information: The calorie content of tilapia fish soup with basil can vary based on serving size and specific ingredients used. On average, a serving of this soup contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of fish and added oils.
Conclusion: Tilapia fish soup with basil is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together the goodness of seafood and aromatic herbs. With its simple preparation and versatile nature, it's a perfect choice for a wholesome meal any day of the week. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or add your own twist, this soup is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul.
