Saint Lucian Fish Broth

Name: Saint Lucian Fish Broth
Yield: 5
Cuisine: Saint Lucia
Ingredients: Whole small fish or fish pieces, cleaned — 600 g (1.3 lb); Onion, chopped — 1; Garlic, minced — 2 cloves; Carrot, chopped — 1; Christophene, cubed — 1; Green banana, sliced — 1; Thyme — 1 sprig; Scotch bonnet pepper, whole — 1; Water Salt and black pepper, to taste — 1.2 L (5 cups)

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Servings

Ingredients

Whole small fish or fish pieces, cleaned — 600 g (1.3 lb)
Onion, chopped — 1
Garlic, minced — 2 cloves
Carrot, chopped — 1
Christophene, cubed — 1
Green banana, sliced — 1
Thyme — 1 sprig
Scotch bonnet pepper, whole — 1
Water Salt and black pepper, to taste — 1.2 L (5 cups)

Method

Combine all ingredients except salt and pepper in a large pot.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 25-30 minutes until the fish and vegetables are tender.
Carefully remove the scotch bonnet and any fish bones.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot in bowls.

Introduction: A light, aromatic broth simmered from fresh fish and root vegetables, popular along the Saint Lucian coast.

Cultural Background: Fish broth is a staple in Saint Lucia’s fishing communities, made from the day’s catch simmered simply with local ground provisions, offering a lighter alternative to heavier meat soups.

Tips: Use bony, flavourful fish for the broth and strain out bones carefully before serving. Keep the scotch bonnet whole to avoid overpowering heat.

Variations: Add dumplings in the last 12 minutes for a heartier meal; swap green banana for yam for a different texture.

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition: Approx. 220 kcal, 22 g protein, 20 g carbohydrate, 6 g fat per serving.

FAQs:

Q: What fish works best for broth?

A: Small whole fish or bony cuts give the most flavour; fillets can be used but yield a lighter broth.

Q: Can I add more vegetables?

A: Yes, pumpkin, yam or dasheen can all be added according to what’s available.