Sour Soup with Flounder Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon green tea rubs (a mixture of green tea leaves, sugar, and spices)
• 1 lb (450g) flounder fillets, skin removed
• 4 cups chicken or fish broth
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (optional)
• 1/4 cup sliced red chili peppers (or 1-2 fresh red chilies, sliced)
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
• Optional: 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms (such as shiitake or button)

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 flounder fillets.

Season the Flounder Fillets:

• Pat the flounder 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 thinly sliced red onion and minced garlic, and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened.
• Stir in the lime juice, white vinegar, fish sauce, and honey. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Add the Flounder Fillets:

• Carefully place the seasoned flounder fillets into the simmering broth. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the fillets are opaque and flake easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the fish.

Add Vegetables and Herbs:

• Stir in the chopped cilantro, sliced red chili peppers, and optional sliced mushrooms. If using Thai basil, add it at this stage as well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Finish and Serve:

• Remove the pot from the heat and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the flounder fillets and soup to individual bowls.
• Garnish with chopped green onions and additional cilantro or Thai basil leaves, if desired.
• Serve the Sour Soup with Flounder immediately, enjoying the bright, tangy flavors of the broth, tender flounder fillets, and the subtle hint of green tea from the rubs.