Ingredients

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 small onion, cut into very thin wedges

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

4 fresh or frozen kaffir lime leaves

2 cups homemade or frozen fish stock

6 ounces baby potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch chunks

2 stalks celery, thinly sliced on the bias

1/4 pound green beans, stem ends trimmed, cut into 1 1/2-inch lengths

1 one-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and finely julienned (about 2 tablespoons)

3 cups unsweetened coconut milk

1 pound cod fillets, cut into large chunks

Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

1/2 bunch fresh chives, cut into 1 1/2-inch lengths, for garnish

6 tablespoons freshly grated or desiccated coconut, for garnish

Preparation

Heat butter in a large saucepan or small stockpot over medium heat. Add onion, and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, 3 to 4 minutes. Add garlic and lime leaves; cook 1 minute. Add fish stock, potatoes, celery, green beans, and ginger; bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook 7 to 9 minutes.

Reduce heat to low. Add coconut milk, and bring almost to a simmer. Add fish; without stirring, simmer until the fish is opaque and vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls; garnish with chives and coconut. Serve immediately.