Immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of the Czech Republic with our authentic recipe for Rybí Polévka, a beloved Czech fish soup. This hearty soup is a staple in Czech cuisine, showcasing the freshest catch of the day combined with aromatic herbs and vegetables. In this recipe, tender fish fillets are simmered to perfection in a flavorful broth infused with paprika, bay leaves, and other traditional spices, creating a comforting and nourishing dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're seeking a taste of Czech culture or simply craving a warm bowl of soup, this Rybí Polévka recipe will surely satisfy your palate and warm your soul.

Ingredients:

• 500g freshwater fish fillets (such as carp, trout, or perch), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1.5 liters fish or vegetable broth
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

2- Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.

3- Stir in the minced garlic, bay leaf, paprika, and dried thyme. Cook for an additional minute until the spices become fragrant.

4- Pour in the fish or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.

5- Once simmering, add the diced potatoes to the pot and continue to cook for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender.

6- Carefully add the fish fillets to the pot, making sure they are submerged in the broth. Simmer gently for another 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

7- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.

8- Remove the bay leaf from the soup and discard.

9- Serve the Rybí polévka hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and accompanied by lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the soup.

10- Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Czech fish soup with crusty bread or as a starter for a traditional Czech meal. Smacznego! (Enjoy your meal in Czech!)

Nutritional Values:

Here's an approximate nutritional breakdown for the ingredients used in the Czech Republic Rybí polévka recipe:

Freshwater fish fillets (500g):

• Calories: 500
• Protein: 100g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, brain function, and overall well-being.

Onion (1 medium):

• Calories: 44
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits: Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, supports immune health, and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

Carrots (2 medium):

• Calories: 50
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 4g

benefits: High in beta-carotene, vitamins, and minerals, carrots promote eye health, boost immunity, and support healthy skin.

Celery stalks (2 medium):

• Calories: 16
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits: Low in calories and high in fiber, celery aids digestion, reduces inflammation, and may help lower blood pressure.

Potatoes (2 medium):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 6g

benefits: Good source of carbohydrates, potassium, and vitamin C, potatoes provide energy, support muscle function, and boost immunity.

Garlic (2 cloves):

• Calories: 10
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Contains sulfur compounds with antibacterial and antiviral properties, garlic supports cardiovascular health and boosts immune function.

Paprika (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 6
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 1g

benefits: Rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and capsaicin, paprika supports immune health, aids digestion, and may help reduce inflammation.

Dried thyme (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 3
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Contains antioxidants and antimicrobial properties, thyme supports respiratory health, aids digestion, and may help relieve coughs and sore throats.

Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Provides healthy fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants, vegetable oil supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and promotes skin health.

Fish or vegetable broth (1.5 liters):

• Calories: 60
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Hydrating and rich in nutrients, broth provides essential minerals, supports gut health, and helps maintain electrolyte balance.

Fresh parsley (for garnish):

• Calories: 1
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: High in vitamin K, vitamin C, and antioxidants, parsley supports bone health, promotes detoxification, and freshens breath.

Lemon wedges (for serving):

• Calories: 4
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, lemons support immune health, aid digestion, and may help alkalize the body.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the specific ingredients used and cooking methods.