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Riblja Čorba sa Rižom

The Quirky Foodster Team

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15 min
Prep
30 min
Cook
5
Servings

Ingredients

  • Firm white fish, cut into chunks — 600 g (1.3 lb)
  • Onion, chopped — 1
  • Garlic, minced — 2 cloves
  • Tomatoes, chopped — 2
  • Tomato paste — 2 tbsp
  • Rice — 1/2 cup (90 g / 3 oz)
  • Fish or vegetable stock — 4 cups (960 ml / 32 fl oz)
  • Olive oil — 3 tbsp
  • Salt and pepper — to taste
  • Chopped parsley, to garnish

Method

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
  2. Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste, cooking for 8 minutes until darkened.
  3. Add the stock and rice, and bring to a boil.
  4. Simmer for 12 minutes until the rice is nearly tender.
  5. Add the fish chunks and simmer gently for a further 8–10 minutes until cooked through.
  6. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Introduction: A hearty fish and rice stew simmered with tomato and vegetables, drawing on the fresh catch from Montenegro’s Adriatic coast.

Cultural Background: With a long stretch of Adriatic coastline, coastal Montenegrin towns have developed a strong tradition of fish-based cooking, and this rice-thickened stew is a common, satisfying midday meal in fishing communities.

Tips: Add the fish only once the rice is nearly cooked, to avoid overcooking it. Use a firm fish that holds together well during simmering.

Variations: Add a pinch of chilli flakes for a little heat. Use a mix of different fish and shellfish for a more elaborate version.

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock if the stew has thickened too much.

Nutrition: Per serving (approx.): 340 kcal, 26 g protein, 12 g fat, 30 g carbohydrate.

FAQs:

Q: What fish is traditionally used?

A: Any fresh Adriatic catch, such as hake, sea bass or bream.

Q: Can I use a different grain instead of rice?

A: Rice is traditional here, though small pasta shapes