Equatorial Guinean Fish Pepesoup

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Equatorial Guinean fish pepesoup with shrimp, tomato, onion, and chili.

Pepesoup is a warmly spiced broth enjoyed across parts of West and Central Africa, and this fish-forward version is bright, aromatic, and comforting.

The broth is built with tomato, onion, garlic, ginger, and chili before the fish and shrimp are added at the end for a clean, delicate texture.

Keep the broth at a gentle simmer after adding the seafood so the fish stays tender.

Serving Suggestions

Serve in deep bowls with rice, boiled plantain, or crusty cassava on the side.

A ladle serving Equatorial Guinean fish pepesoup from a cooking pot.

Recipe Notes

Use a firm white fish that will not fall apart quickly. Refrigerate leftovers for up to two days and reheat gently.

Equatorial Guinean fish pepesoup with shrimp, tomato, onion, and chili.

Equatorial Guinean Fish Pepesoup

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A bright, chili-scented fish and shrimp broth with tomato and ginger.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Equatorial Guinean
Calories: 285

Ingredients
 
 

Broth
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil
  • 1 large yellow onion quartered
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 2 large tomatoes quartered
  • 1 large red bell pepper seeded and chopped
  • 1 whole red chili seeded for less heat
  • 4 cups fish stock
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt
Seafood
  • 450 g firm white fish fillets cut into large pieces
  • 150 g peeled shrimp
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tbsp lime juice

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Blender
  • Chef’s knife
  • Ladle

Method
 

Make the broth:
  1. Heat the oil in a large pot. Add the onion, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, bell pepper, and chili. Cook for 8 minutes until softened.
  2. Blend the softened vegetables with 1 cup of the stock until mostly smooth. Return the mixture to the pot with the remaining stock and salt.
  3. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 15 minutes.
Finish the soup:
  1. Add the fish and shrimp to the simmering broth. Cook gently for 8 to 10 minutes, until the fish flakes and the shrimp are opaque.
  2. Stir in the cilantro and lime juice. Taste and adjust the salt, then serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 39gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 155mgSodium: 1120mgFiber: 4gSugar: 9g

Notes

  • Adjust the chili to suit your table; the broth should be aromatic and warming rather than harsh.
  • Metric amounts are provided for every measured ingredient.