Sour Fish Soup (Suan Cai Yu)
Brief Introduction
Sour Fish Soup, also known as Suan Cai Yu in Chinese, is a renowned dish in Sichuan cuisine. It combines fresh fish, typically carp or catfish, with pickled vegetables such as mustard greens or Chinese cabbage in a spicy and sour broth. This dish is celebrated for its bold and complex flavors, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts.
Cuisine
Sichuan Cuisine
Taste
Sour Fish Soup is characterized by its harmonious blend of sourness from the pickled vegetables and spiciness from Sichuan peppercorns and chili peppers. The fish is tender and juicy, complemented by the tangy and fiery broth.
Specialties
- Fresh Fish: Typically carp, catfish, or other freshwater fish, providing a tender and flavorful base.
- Pickled Vegetables: Add a tangy, sour element to the dish.
- Spicy Broth: Infused with chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns, creating a fiery and numbing sensation.
- Hearty and Comforting: Often served in a communal pot, making it great for sharing.
Ingredients
- Fish: Fresh carp, catfish, or other suitable freshwater fish.
- Pickled Vegetables: Such as mustard greens, Chinese cabbage, or other pickled vegetables.
- Chili Peppers and Sichuan Peppercorns: For the spicy and numbing broth.
- Garlic, Ginger, and Scallions: Enhancing the aroma and flavor.
- Broth: Made with water or stock, seasoned with salt, soy sauce, and other spices.
Authentic Location
To enjoy authentic Sour Fish Soup, visit Chongqing or Chengdu, both renowned for their fiery and aromatic Sichuan cuisine. These cities offer numerous restaurants specializing in Sour Fish Soup, ensuring you get the genuine taste of this delicious dish.
Glossary
| Chinese | English |
|---|---|
| 酸菜鱼 | Sour Fish Soup |
| 苏菜鱼 (Suan Cai Yu) | Suan Cai Yu |
| 四川菜系 | Sichuan Cuisine |
| 鲜鱼 | Fresh Fish |
| 泡菜 | Pickled Vegetables |
| 辣椒 | Chili Peppers |
| 花椒 | Sichuan Peppercorns |
| 重庆 | Chongqing |
| 成都 | Chengdu |
Tourist attractions
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