Description
Caldo de Pescado is a classic Mexican fish soup made with a light homemade fish broth, tender vegetables, and fresh white fish simmered gently until perfectly cooked. This comforting soup features a smooth tomato and chipotle base that adds warmth and depth without overpowering the delicate flavor of the fish. It is nourishing, simple to prepare, and ideal for anyone looking for a satisfying seafood soup with authentic coastal flavor.
Ingredients
Fish head, tail, and bones from one whole white fish
Half onion
One garlic clove
One bay leaf
Salt
Black pepper
Water
Ripe tomatoes
Additional onion
Additional garlic clove
Chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
Olive oil
Russet potato
Carrots
Prepared fish broth or water with seafood bouillon
Fresh white fish such as sea bass, red snapper, or swordfish
Chile de árbol optional
Fresh lime wedges
Chopped green onions
Instructions
1. Place the fish head, tail, and bones into a large pot with onion, garlic, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and water
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently until the broth is fragrant and lightly flavored
3. Strain the broth and set aside, discarding solids
4. Blend tomatoes, water, onion, garlic, chipotle pepper, and salt until smooth
5. Heat olive oil in a large stock pot and carefully pour in the tomato mixture while stirring
6. Cook the sauce briefly until slightly thickened and aromatic
7. Add the prepared fish broth and stir to combine
8. Add potatoes, carrots, and bay leaf and simmer until vegetables are tender
9. Gently add fish pieces and cook just until opaque and tender
10. Remove from heat and adjust seasoning if needed
11. Serve hot with lime wedges, chile de árbol, and green onions
Notes
Use firm white fish to prevent breaking apart during cooking
Add fish at the very end to keep the texture tender
Store bought fish broth or vegetable broth can be used if preferred
Canned tomato sauce may replace fresh tomatoes for convenience
Adjust spice level by using less chipotle or omitting chile de árbol
Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican