Dinner

Coconut Lime Fish Soup Recipe

Name: Coconut Lime Fish Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 2 cups fish or chicken broth; 3 tablespoons lime juice; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges for serving

ByHarper Ellington February 2, 2026February 2, 2026

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Introduction

Coconut Lime Fish Soup is a vibrant and refreshing dish that blends creamy coconut milk with zesty lime juice to create a flavorful and nourishing meal. Originating from Southeast Asian coastal cuisines, it’s a perfect choice for a light yet satisfying dinner any time of the year.

A dark brown bowl holds a creamy, light yellow soup with visible small red chili slices and green herb leaves floating throughout. In the center sits a thick, golden-brown grilled piece of fish with a slightly crispy texture. A fresh green lime wedge rests on the right edge inside the bowl. The bowl is placed on a soft green cloth over a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 cups fish or chicken broth
3 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the sliced red bell pepper and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Step 4: Pour in the coconut milk and fish or chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Step 5: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Gently add the fish pieces to the soup. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
Step 7: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh cilantro.
Step 8: Serve the soup hot, garnished with lime wedges.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh, high-quality fish for the best flavor and texture.
For a spicier version, add Thai chili peppers or a spoonful of red curry paste.
Try substituting fish with shrimp or salmon for a different seafood twist.
For a thicker soup, reduce the broth amount or simmer longer to concentrate the flavors.
To make a vegetarian version, replace fish with tofu and use vegetable broth instead.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the fish. This soup is best enjoyed fresh but can be prepared a day ahead for convenience.