Tom Yum Cod Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon green tea rubs (a mixture of green tea leaves, sugar, and spices)
• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
• 4 cups chicken or fish broth
• 1 lemongrass stalk, bruised
• 1 kaffir lime leaf (optional, or substitute with lime zest)
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon Thai chili paste (such as Sriracha) or fresh red chili slices
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (such as shiitake or button)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: 1/4 cup sliced fresh Thai basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Green Tea Rubs:

• Combine the green tea leaves, sugar, and spices in a small bowl to create the green tea rubs. This mixture will be used to season the cod fillets.

Season the Cod Fillets:

• Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Lightly season each fillet with the green tea rubs, pressing the rubs into the flesh to ensure they adhere well.

Prepare the Soup Base:

• In a large pot, bring the chicken or fish broth to a simmer over medium heat. Add the bruised lemongrass stalk and kaffir lime leaf (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
• Stir in the lime juice, fish sauce, and Thai chili paste (or fresh red chili slices). Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook the Cod Fillets:

• Gently place the seasoned cod fillets into the simmering broth. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the fish.

Add Vegetables and Finish:

• Add the sliced mushrooms and cherry tomatoes to the pot. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
• Stir in the chopped cilantro and green onions. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Serve:

• Remove the lemongrass stalk and kaffir lime leaf from the soup. Ladle the Tom Yum Cod Soup into bowls, ensuring each portion has a piece of cod.
• Garnish with additional chopped cilantro and, if desired, sliced Thai basil leaves.
• Serve the Tom Yum Cod Soup immediately, enjoying the aromatic and spicy flavors of the broth combined with the tender cod and the subtle hint of green tea from the rubs.