Fay’s fish soup

My mum Fay made this fish soup last Friday.

She bought the wild sea bass in Tachbrook street market, London, from Pat, the only fishmonger she trusts.

“If he packs up, I’ll pack up,” says my mum.

Here’s Fay’s riff on an Evelyn Rose recipe. Two medium-sized fish serves five.

Sweat sliced onion and carrots in butter. Once softened, add the two whole sea bass – or any pieces of fish – and turn over in the fat. Cover with water and add a bay leaf. Simmer until fish is cooked (flakes easily, about 15 minutes) with the lid on.

Cook the whole fish, gutted but with head intact – this will add flavour. Take off the head at the end. Skin and fillet before serving.

Add a dollop of cream fraiche or sour cream, braised fennel and rice with aromatic saffron.

The No Tesco in Stokes Croft campaign (note Saturday’s celebratory demonstration) has been on my mind (and blog) this week, along with the brave squatters who have now occupied the site that used to be a comedy club and which  Tesco wants to turn into a soulless supermarket.

On Wednesday I had the privilege of visiting the peaceful protestors in the occupied premises. They are doing a grand job and I am grateful for their action.

Funnily enough, my mum had a Tesco story last Friday.

“Jack Cohen, the founder of Tesco, had a barrow outside my grandmother’s shop in Morgan Street market in the East End. My family used to look down on him because he was just a barrow boy and they were shop-owners.”

Taking advantage of the property slump, Tesco is intent on buying up land.

Tesco wants control of every purchase from food to movies.

I can’t help wishing Jack stayed a barrow boy.