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Smoky Cod and Potato Soup

Yields4 ServingsPrep Time15 minsCook Time30 minsTotal Time45 mins

This Smoky Cod and Potato Soup is a comforting, hearty dish built on tender chunks of potato, flakes of lightly smoked cod, and a flavorful broth enhanced with leeks, garlic, and a touch of cream. It’s a simplified take on Scottish Cullen Skink — warming, nourishing, and beautifully balanced with sea-scented depth and earthiness.

Smoky Cod and Potato Soup

 1 tbsp butter
 1 tbsp olive oil
 1 leek (white and light green parts), finely sliced
 1 small onion, diced
 2 cloves garlic, minced
 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
 3 cups fish stock (or chicken/vegetable stock)
 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
 8 oz smoked cod fillet (or a mix of smoked and unsmoked), skinless
 Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
 Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne
 1 tbsp chopped parsley or chives, for garnish
 Lemon wedges, for serving
Sauté the Aromatics
1

  1. In a large saucepan, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.

  2. Add leek and onion, cook gently for 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent.

  3. Stir in garlic and cook for another 1 minute.

Simmer the Potatoes
2

  1. Add diced potatoes and stock.

  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

  3. Cook uncovered for 12–15 minutes, or until potatoes are just tender.

Poach the Cod
3

  1. Gently add the cod fillet to the pot, nestling it into the broth.

  2. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

  3. Remove the fish, flake it into large chunks, and discard any bones. Return to the pot.

Finish with Milk and Seasoning
4

  1. Stir in milk or cream and heat gently — do not boil.

  2. Season with salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika or cayenne for a kick.

Serve
5

  1. Ladle into warm bowls.

  2. Garnish with chopped herbs and serve with lemon wedges and crusty bread on the side.

Pairing Suggestions
6

  • Crusty sourdough or Scottish oatcakes

  • A glass of dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay)

  • Add sweetcorn or peas for extra texture and sweetness

Nutrition Facts

4 servings

Serving size