Fish Pepper Soup

Step 1

Place the fish carcasses in a stock pot and cover with about 4 quarts of water. Add the onions, ginger, lemongrass, garlic, bay leaf, dried and smoked chiles, and selim seed pods. Bring up to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer until the fish bones have broken down and the vegetables are softened, at least 1 hour. Add the habanero, thyme, parsley and cilantro during the last 10 minutes of cooking. (You can make the fish stock 1 day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.)

Step 2

While the stock is simmering, prepare the pepper soup spices: Heat a small skillet over medium, and add the grains and seeds. Toast, moving frequently, until the seeds begin to crackle and become fragrant, 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool. Transfer the mixture to a spice grinder and pulse to a smooth powder. (Store away from heat or direct sunlight in an airtight jar until ready to use.)

Step 3

Cut the fish fillets into 2-inch cubes and season with salt. Strain out all the solids from the stock and return the stock to the pot. Add 2 tablespoons pepper soup spice and reserve any extra for the garnish. Season with salt and bring up to a boil over high. Reduce the heat to low and bring the broth to a simmer.

Step 4

Gently add the fish cubes and simmer on low until just cooked through, about 4 minutes.

Step 5

Divide the soup among bowls. Top with fresh mint, scent leaf, cilantro and a sprinkle of pepper soup spice.