Denis Bernard's Fish Soup

Name: Denis Bernard's Fish Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 leek (sliced); 1 fennel bulb (sliced); 1 teaspoon saffron threads; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 500 grams white fish fillets (cut into pieces); 250 grams shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 bay leaf; 1.5 litres fish stock; 250 ml dry white wine; to taste salt and pepper

60 min 6 servings Medium

All Recipes

Denis Bernard's Fish Soup

A classic fish soup inspired by Denis Bernard, rich in flavour and perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep

20 min

Cook

40 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Fish soup is a beloved dish in many coastal regions, celebrated for its depth of flavour and comforting warmth. Denis Bernard's version is a testament to traditional techniques, bringing together a medley of fresh seafood and aromatic herbs. This soup is not just about the taste of the sea but also about the rich, savoury broth that enhances each ingredient. It's a perfect choice for a hearty meal, especially when the weather calls for something warm and nourishing.

Ingredients

Servings

Soup Base

Seafood

Liquid and Seasoning

Instructions

Prepare the base

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced leek, and sliced fennel bulb. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 8-10 minutes.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the vegetables from browning.

Add aromatics

Stir in the saffron threads and dried thyme. Cook for another minute to release the aromas.

Pro tip: Crush the saffron slightly between your fingers for better flavour release.

Add liquids

Pour in the dry white wine and let it reduce by half. Then, add the fish stock and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Pro tip: Use good quality wine; it enhances the overall taste.

Simmer the soup

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.

Add seafood

Gently add the fish pieces and shrimp to the pot. Simmer for another 8-10 minutes until the fish is cooked through and the shrimp are pink.

Pro tip: Ensure the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Season and serve

Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Pro tip: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if desired.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use fresh, sustainably sourced fish for the best flavour.</li><li>Simmer gently to avoid breaking the fish apart.</li><li>Adjust seasoning according to taste before serving.</li><li>Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve Denis Bernard's Fish Soup with a side of crusty baguette or a simple salad to complement its rich flavours. The soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, allowing the flavours to meld beautifully. Reheat gently to preserve the integrity of the fish, and enjoy this classic dish that brings a taste of the ocean to your table.