Traditional Russian Uha: A Hearty Fish Soup Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 large fish (such as carp, salmon, or cod)
  • 2 liters of water
  • 2 onions
  • 2 carrots
  • 2 potatoes
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 5 allspice berries
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 bunch of parsley
  • 1 bunch of dill

Steps and instructions

  1. Clean the fish thoroughly, remove the scales and guts. Cut into large pieces.
  2. Place the fish in a large pot, add 2 liters of water and put on medium heat.
  3. While the fish is cooking, peel and chop the onions, carrots, and potatoes.
  4. Add the chopped vegetables, bay leaves, and allspice berries to the pot.
  5. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Continue to cook over medium heat for about 40 minutes until the fish and vegetables are fully cooked.
  7. Once the soup is ready, add the chopped parsley and dill.
  8. Turn off the heat and let the soup sit for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  9. Before serving, remove the bay leaves and allspice berries.
  10. Divide the soup into bowls and serve hot.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Instead of using fish, you can make a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth and adding tofu or tempeh as a protein source.
  • Add different vegetables such as celery, leeks, or mushrooms to enhance the flavor.
  • For a spicier version, add chili flakes or a small amount of cayenne pepper.
  • If you prefer a creamy soup, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices like thyme, oregano, or turmeric to add a unique flavor profile.
  • To make it heartier, you can add noodles or rice to the soup.
  • For a more savory taste, you can add a splash of fish sauce or soy sauce.
  • If you prefer a thicker broth, you can whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to brighten the flavors.
  • Garnish each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our recipe for Uha, a traditional Russian fish soup that is light, flavorful, and heartwarming. This dish features a simple yet delicious broth, made rich and aromatic with the addition of various spices and herbs. The main ingredient, fish, is complemented by a medley of vegetables that add texture and depth to the soup. With our step-by-step instructions, you'll find this recipe approachable, even for beginners. Expect a satisfying and nourishing dish that takes about an hour to prepare and cook. By the end, you'll have a hot, delicious bowl of Uha ready to warm you up on any chilly day. Enjoy this culinary journey to Russia right in your kitchen!

Common questions

  1. What type of fish can I use for Uha?
    You can use a large fish such as carp, salmon, or cod for making Uha.
  2. How long does it take to cook Uha?
    Uha takes approximately 40 minutes to cook until the fish and vegetables are fully cooked.
  3. Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
    Yes, you can add additional vegetables like celery, leek, or bell peppers according to your preference.
  4. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
    While fresh herbs like parsley and dill are recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried herbs if fresh ones are not available. However, the taste might vary slightly.
  5. Can I make Uha in advance and reheat it?
    Yes, you can make Uha in advance and reheat it before serving. Just make sure to store it properly in the refrigerator and heat it gently over the stovetop or in the microwave.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large Pot - A large pot is needed to cook the soup.
  • Chopping Board - A chopping board is useful for cutting and preparing the vegetables.
  • Knife - A sharp knife is necessary for cutting the fish and chopping the vegetables.
  • Soup Ladle - A ladle will help you serve the soup into bowls.
  • Soup Bowls - You will need bowls to serve the uha soup.
  • Serving Spoons - Serving spoons will be used to garnish the soup with parsley and dill.

Origin stories

Uha, an aromatic fish soup, has a deeply embedded place in Russian cuisine and culture. It was particularly cherished by Russian fishermen who would prepare it right on the riverbank. The customary practice was to cook Uha in the open air, and the process was almost a ritual. The fish used was often the one that was just caught, making it a meal that was truly fresh and unique each time. It is said that the real skill in making Uha lies in being able to subtly catch the elusive "first broth", which is the liquid that first boils off the fish. This liquid is supposedly the most delicious and is carefully preserved before further preparation continues. This tradition of catching the "first broth" is still practiced by some, making the cooking of Uha a unique culinary experience.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.