Classic Seafood Stew Recipe

Classic Seafood Stew Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups fish stock or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams, fish fillets like cod or salmon)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and celery.
   • Sauté until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Spices:
   • Stir in the paprika, thyme, bay leaf, and red pepper flakes (if using).
   • Cook for another minute to release the flavors.
3. Add Liquids:
   • Pour in the diced tomatoes, fish stock (or vegetable broth), and white wine.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
4. Cook the Seafood:
   • Add the mixed seafood to the pot.
   • If using clams or mussels, add them first and cook for about 5 minutes, then add the shrimp and fish fillets.
   • Simmer until the seafood is cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. The clams and mussels should open, and the shrimp should be pink.
5. Season and Serve:
   • Taste the stew and season with salt and pepper as needed.
   • Discard the bay leaf.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the seafood stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.
• A light green salad on the side would complement this dish well.

This recipe is flexible, so feel free to adjust the types of seafood based on what you have available. Enjoy your cooking!