Hungarian halaszle: The fish soup that will warm your soul

Halaszle is a true symbol of Hungarian cuisine, especially in the regions where access to fresh fish is easier. As is typical for Hungarian soup, paprika, and onions are the base ingredients besides fish. The rest of the additions vary by region, similar to how every home cook makes chicken soup differently. It's a nice diversion from classic soups and will remind you of the holiday atmosphere of fish delicacies.

Hungarian cooks have been preparing this soup for centuries in a bogrács, a cast-iron cauldron hung over a fire. Thanks to this, halaszle gains its unique taste and aroma. The base, of course, is fish. It must be fresh and of the highest quality, mostly carp, but cod and hake also work well.

Whether it's by the Tisza, the Danube, or Lake Balaton, each region has its own unique interpretation of this soup. Some add tomatoes, in other places potatoes, and there are also versions with pasta. This soup definitely doesn't get boring quickly.

Ingredients:                            

• 1.8 lbs of cod, hake, or carp fillet
• 5 cups of vegetable or fish broth
• 2 yellow bell peppers
• 2 red bell peppers
• 1 green bell pepper
• 3 potatoes
• 2 carrots
• 3 onions
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons hot paprika
• 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 3 tablespoons of oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additionally:

• Parsley leaves

Preparation:      

1. Cut the fillets into medium-sized cubes, sprinkle with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté the onions with the garlic in hot oil until translucent. Add the chopped vegetables and spices. Sauté until tender.
3. Pour the broth over the vegetables and add the tomatoes. Cook for a few minutes.
4. Add the pieces of fish to the soup and cook until tender and the protein is set.

Serve the ready soup hot, sprinkled with fresh parsley leaves. Enjoy your meal!