The Portuguese traders first brought their culinary expertise to Macau in the 16th century. They introduced ingredients like , potatoes, and spices like paprika, cinnamon, and even saffron. An interesting fact is that the Portuguese word for soup is ‘sopa’.
Turbot is a prized fish in Portugal, and its meat is considered soft, tender, and flavorful. It is a versatile fish that can be cooked in different styles and goes well with many ingredients. Prawns, on the other hand, are also a favorite seafood of the Portuguese.
The combination of turbot and prawns in a soup is a perfect example of Portuguese fusion cuisine. Imperial soup is made by first making a flavorful prawn broth that is rich and has a deep orange color. The prawns are peeled, and their shells are used to flavor the broth along with other ingredients like garlic, onions, and tomatoes.
To make the soup more complex, you can add other seafood like mussels, clams, or even crab. The soup is then thickened with cornstarch, which gives it a creamy and velvety texture.
The turbot are then added to the soup and gently poached until cooked through. The fish is delicate and soft, and it absorbs all the flavors of the soup. Turbot has a mild flavor that works perfectly with prawns and other seafood.
The soup is then served hot, garnished with coriander leaves and some sliced red chillies. The dish is light and refreshing, and the flavors of the seafood are well balanced. The soup can be accompanied by some bread or rice, which helps to soak up the broth.
Imperial soup with turbot and prawns is a dish that is perfect for entertaining guests or for a fancy dinner night at home. It is a healthy option and is low in fat and calories. The soup is also packed with nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that are beneficial for health.
Overall, Imperial soup with turbot and prawns is a dish that is easy to make and is packed with flavor. The combination of prawn broth, turbot fillets, and seafood is a match made in heaven. This dish is a great example of how the culinary traditions of two cultures can come together to create something new and exciting.