Seafood stew is a delightful dish that often brings together the flavors of the ocean in a comforting and savory broth. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb mixed seafood (such as shrimp, mussels, clams, squid, fish fillets)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 2 cups seafood or fish stock
- 1 cup white wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
- Crusty bread for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Seafood:
- If using whole shrimp, peel and devein them. Clean mussels and clams thoroughly. Cut fish fillets into bite-sized pieces. Leave squid bodies whole or slice into rings, depending on your preference.
- Saute Aromatics:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Flavorings:
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, and dried thyme. Cook for another 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
- Pour in Liquids:
- Add seafood or fish stock and white wine (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Seafood:
- Once the broth is simmering, add the mixed seafood to the pot. Cook until the seafood is cooked through. The shrimp should turn pink, mussels and clams should open, and fish should flake easily with a fork. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes depending on the types of seafood used.
- Season and Garnish:
- Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the stew for garnish.
- Serve:
- Ladle the seafood stew into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Enjoy your homemade seafood stew! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite seafood or adjusting the seasonings to your taste.
