Introduction
Dubai is a coastal city famous for its stunning beaches, modern lifestyle, and, of course, its incredible seafood. As one of the world’s top destinations for fresh seafood, Dubai offers a variety of delicious seafood soups that showcase the rich flavors of the sea. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Arabic dishes or looking for something with a modern twist, Dubai’s seafood soups are sure to leave you craving more. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most famous seafood soups in Dubai and provide you with step-by-step instructions to recreate them at home.
Famous Seafood Soups in Dubai
Dubai’s cuisine is influenced by its coastal location, blending Arabic, Persian, Indian, and other culinary traditions. The city’s seafood soups are a delightful representation of this rich culinary heritage. Some of the most popular seafood soups in Dubai include:
- Samak Harra (Spicy Fish Soup)
- Thareed Samak (Fish Stew)
- Shrimp Soup
- Fish Head Soup
- Lobster Bisque
Let’s dive deeper into these delicious seafood soups and how you can make them at home.
Samak Harra (Spicy Fish Soup)
Samak Harra is one of Dubai’s most beloved seafood soups, known for its bold flavors and spicy kick. This traditional fish soup is made with fresh fish, tomatoes, garlic, and a variety of spices like cumin, coriander, and chili. The soup is simmered until the fish is tender and the flavors are well-balanced, creating a perfect combination of heat and depth.
Ingredients:
- 500g of fresh fish (you can use your preferred choice, but kingfish or grouper are ideal)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 green chili, sliced
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon red chili paste
- 4 cups fish stock or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Fish: Cut the fish into chunks. If using whole fish, ensure to remove the scales and bones.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, and sauté until they become soft and golden brown.
- Add the Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, green chili, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the spices release their aroma.
- Simmer the Soup: Add the fish stock or water to the pot and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the Fish: Carefully add the fish chunks into the pot. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the fish to cook through and absorb the flavors of the soup.
- Season the Soup: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
This spicy fish soup is typically served with warm Arabic bread or rice.
Thareed Samak (Fish Stew)
Thareed Samak is a rich and hearty fish stew that combines tender pieces of fish with vegetables and bread soaked in the savory broth. It’s a filling dish perfect for those cold evenings in Dubai when you’re craving something comforting and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 600g of firm white fish (like hammour or kingfish)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 potato, sliced
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 4 slices of Arabic flatbread
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 4 cups fish stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onions until soft. Add the chopped tomatoes, cumin, and paprika, and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the Vegetables: Stir in the potatoes, carrots, and zucchini. Cook for a few minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the Fish Stock: Pour in the fish stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add the Fish: Place the fish pieces into the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the broth. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes.
- Prepare the Bread: Tear the Arabic flatbread into large pieces and add them to the pot. Allow the bread to soak up the flavors of the broth, softening and thickening the stew.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the stew hot, ensuring each bowl has a good portion of fish, vegetables, and soaked bread.
Shrimp Soup
Shrimp soup is another popular dish in Dubai’s seafood repertoire. The natural sweetness of shrimp combined with aromatic spices makes this soup an instant favorite. It’s typically served as a starter or light meal.
Ingredients:
- 500g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 3 cups fish stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Shrimp: If you haven’t already, peel and devein the shrimp. Set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a pot, sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger until they soften and become fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Add the chopped tomato and ground cumin and coriander. Cook for a few minutes until the tomato softens.
- Add Stock and Simmer: Pour in the fish stock and bring the soup to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they turn pink and curl up.
- Finish with Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and stir. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season and Garnish: Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
Where to Find Fresh Seafood in Dubai
If you’re looking for fresh seafood to make these soups, the Fish Market Dubai is one of the best places to buy high-quality fish and seafood. The market offers a variety of fish including hammour, kingfish, shrimp, and more, ensuring you get the freshest ingredients for your soups.
You can also check out Fish In Dubai, where you’ll find a wide selection of fresh catches delivered straight to your doorstep, making it easier than ever to enjoy fresh seafood in the comfort of your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen fish for these soups?
While fresh fish offers the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen fish if fresh fish is not available. Just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking.
2. Can I make these soups without fish stock?
Yes, you can use vegetable stock or water if you prefer, but using fish stock enhances the flavor and gives the soup a more authentic taste.
3. What is the best bread to serve with seafood soups?
Arabic flatbread or pita bread is commonly served with seafood soups. It’s perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
4. How spicy are these soups?
The spice level can vary depending on the recipe and your personal preference. Fish In Dubai You can adjust the amount of chili and spices to suit your taste.
