Ciorbă de pește “ca-n deltă” – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Romania Region / Locale: Dobrogea Servings: 4 servings
Romania Region / Locale: Dobrogea Servings: 4 servingsCiorbă de pește, a traditional Romanian fish soup, originates from the Danube Delta region, a place renowned for its rich biodiversity and abundant fish varieties. This delightful soup combines tender pieces of fish with a symphony of vegetables, herbs, and a unique touch of sourness, typical of the Romanian ciorbă, creating a refreshing and comforting dish enjoyed by families across the country.
Ingredients
- fresh white fish fillets – 500 g / 1.1 lbs
- onion – 1 large, chopped
- carrots – 2, sliced
- bell pepper – 1, diced
- celeriac root – 100 g / 3.5 oz, diced
- tomatoes – 2, diced
- bortsch – 250 ml / 1 cup
- water – 1.5 liters / 6 cups
- sunflower oil – 2 tbsp
- salt – to taste
- black pepper – to taste
- fresh parsley – a small bunch, chopped
- bay leaves – 2
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add the sliced carrots, diced bell pepper, and celeriac root. Cook for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for another 3 minutes. Pour in the water and add the bay leaves. Bring to a boil.
- Add the fish fillets, reduce the heat to low and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
- Pour in the borscht and season with salt and black pepper according to your taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat, discard the bay leaves, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Substitutions
- fresh white fish fillets -> salmon or trout fillets
- bortsch -> lemon juice or vinegar diluted in water
- sunflower oil -> olive oil
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Include a mix of fish varieties for a richer flavor.
- Add a splash of white wine to the broth for a deeper taste.
- Incorporate fresh dill along with parsley for added aroma.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
