Traditional Russian Ukha: A Hearty Fish Soup Recipe

Ingredients

1.5 kg of fish (ideally ruff, perch, pike, or burbot)
3 liters of water
2 medium carrots
1 large onion
3 potatoes
1 bunch of parsley
1 bunch of dill
3 bay leaves
10 black peppercorns
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Steps and instructions

Clean the fish, remove the gills, and cut into large chunks. Keep the heads and tails aside.
Place the fish heads, tails, and other trimmings in a large pot. Add water and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes to create a fish broth.
While the broth is simmering, peel and finely chop the carrots and onion. Peel the potatoes and cut into cubes.
Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the fish trimmings. Return the broth to the pot.
Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots and sauté until the carrots are tender and the onions are translucent.
Add the sautéed vegetables and cubed potatoes to the pot with the broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are almost cooked through.
Add the chunks of fish to the pot and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
Add the parsley, dill, bay leaves, peppercorns, and salt to taste. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
Remove the soup from heat and let it stand for about 10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Tools for making

Large pot - A pot large enough to hold the fish and broth.
Fine-mesh sieve - A sieve used to strain the fish broth.
Frying pan - A pan used to sauté the vegetables.
Knife - A sharp knife for cutting the fish, vegetables, and herbs.
Cutting board - A sturdy surface for chopping and cutting ingredients.
Measuring spoons - Utensils for accurately measuring the amount of salt and oil used.
Wooden spoon - A spoon for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pot.

Recipe variations

Use different types of fish or seafood, such as salmon, cod, shrimp, or mussels, to create a unique flavor profile.
Add additional vegetables like celery, leeks, or mushrooms to enhance the soup's depth of flavor.
For a richer broth, you can add a splash of white wine or fish stock in addition to water.
Experiment with different herbs and spices like thyme, basil, or paprika to customize the taste according to your preference.
For a creamy variation, you can add a touch of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
To make it spicy, add a diced chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
For a heartier version, you can add cooked rice, barley, or pasta to the soup.
To make it more substantial, you can include chunks of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn.
For a vegetarian or vegan option, you can replace the fish with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of fish broth.

Recipe overview

Ukha is a traditional Russian fish soup that's known for its clear broth and hearty ingredients. It was originally prepared by fishermen over an open fire and has remained a beloved dish for its simplicity and comforting flavors. This recipe calls for a mix of fish, vegetables, and flavorful herbs, resulting in a soup that's both satisfying and light. You'll start by making a basic fish broth, then add in sautéed vegetables and chunks of fish. A final sprinkle of herbs adds an extra layer of flavor. Though it takes a bit of effort, the result is a deliciously warming soup that's perfect for cold days. Enjoy the process and savor the flavors of this traditional Russian delicacy.

Common questions

What types of fish are best for making Ukha?
The ideal fish for Ukha are ruff, perch, pike, or burbot.
Can I use fish fillets instead of whole fish?
While using whole fish enhances the flavor of the broth, you can also use fish fillets if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I clean and prepare the fish?
Remove the gills and scales from the fish. Cut it into large chunks, keeping the heads and tails aside to use for the broth.
Can I use store-bought fish broth instead of making my own?
While homemade fish broth adds a rich flavor, you can use store-bought fish broth as a time-saving alternative.
Can I substitute or add other vegetables?
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables like celery, leeks, or bell peppers. However, the classic Ukha recipe includes carrots, onion, and potatoes.
Can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference. Taste the soup as you go and add more seasoning if needed.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large pot - A pot with a capacity of at least 5 liters to cook the soup.
Fine-mesh sieve - Used to strain the fish broth and remove any solids.
Frying pan - To sauté the vegetables before adding them to the soup.
Knife - A sharp knife for cleaning and cutting the fish, as well as chopping vegetables.
Cutting board - To provide a clean and sturdy surface for cutting and chopping ingredients.
Soup ladle - For serving the soup into bowls.
Soup bowls - Deep bowls to serve the hot Ukha.
Soup spoons - Used for eating the Ukha.
Garnish - Optional garnishes such as lemon wedges, fresh herbs, or crusty bread can also be used.

Origin stories

Ukha, a clear Russian soup, has its origins deeply rooted in the country's history. It was initially regarded as a fisherman's meal because it was easily prepared right at the riverside. The fish that was caught would go directly into the pot, and the simplicity of this meal was its beauty. In fact, traditional Ukha was so minimalistic that it was often cooked without any vegetables - just fish, water, and a touch of salt. The goal was to appreciate the delicate flavor of the fish, rather than mask it with other ingredients. Today, Ukha has evolved into a more complex soup, often containing root vegetables and a bouquet of herbs, but the essence of this dish remains the same. It's a symbol of the Russian love for nature and a tribute to the country's vast rivers and lakes.

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.