Mediterranean Seafood Stew
Warm up your winter evenings with this hearty Mediterranean Seafood Stew. Infused with the vibrant flavors of fresh fish, succulent shrimp, and garden-fresh vegetables, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. It's an elegant yet simple dish that pairs perfectly with crusty French bread and a glass of aromatic white wine. Perfect for those cozy nights when you're in the mood for a heartwarming bowl of goodness, this recipe draws inspiration from classic Italian cooking, making it a delightful addition to your winter menu.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
16
Ingredients
Ingredients
Sole or other fish fillets
8 ounces (fresh or frozen, thawed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
Peeled and deveined shrimp
6 ounces (fresh or frozen, thawed and halved lengthwise)
Water
3 cups (for soup base)
Tomatoes
2 medium (peeled and diced)
Carrots
1 cup (thinly sliced (about 2 medium))
Celery
1/2 cup (chopped)
Dry white wine
1/2 cup (or substitute with water)
Onion
1/3 cup (chopped)
Chicken bouillon granules
2 teaspoons (for flavor)
Dried marjoram
1/2 teaspoon (crushed)
Orange rind
1/2 teaspoon (finely shredded)
Garlic cloves
2 (minced)
Bay leaves
2 (whole)
Hot pepper sauce
1 dash (for spice)
Tomato paste
1/4 cup (for thickness)
Italian bread
4 slices (toasted for serving)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Seafood Stew?
It is a hearty and elegant Italian-inspired soup featuring fresh fish, shrimp, and garden vegetables in a savory tomato-based broth.
What type of fish should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of sole, but any firm white fish fillets such as cod, tilapia, or halibut can be used as a substitute.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen peeled and deveined shrimp. Ensure they are fully thawed and halved lengthwise before adding them to the stew.
Is there a substitute for dry white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute the 1/2 cup of dry white wine with an equal amount of water or extra chicken broth.
How do I prepare the tomatoes for the stew?
You should use 2 medium tomatoes that have been peeled and diced to ensure a smooth texture in the soup base.
What is the purpose of the orange rind?
Finely shredded orange rind adds a vibrant, citrusy aroma and a layer of complexity that complements the Mediterranean flavors.
Is this seafood stew spicy?
The recipe includes a dash of hot pepper sauce for a subtle kick, but it is not inherently spicy. You can adjust the heat level to your preference.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
The stew itself is gluten-free if you use a certified gluten-free bouillon, but you must swap the Italian bread for a gluten-free alternative.
How many ingredients are in this stew?
This recipe utilizes 16 ingredients, including seafood, fresh vegetables, herbs, and aromatics.
What vegetables are included in the stew?
The stew contains fresh carrots, celery, onions, and tomatoes.
How should I serve Mediterranean Seafood Stew?
It is best served in a warm bowl with toasted slices of Italian bread and a glass of aromatic white wine.
Can I add other types of seafood?
Yes, you can easily customize this stew by adding scallops, mussels, or clams depending on your preference.
What herbs provide the flavor profile?
The primary herbs used are dried marjoram, garlic, and bay leaves, which give the stew its classic Italian character.
How long should I cook the fish and shrimp?
Fish and shrimp cook very quickly; they should be added near the end of the cooking process until the fish flakes easily and the shrimp are opaque.
Should I remove the bay leaves?
Yes, you should remove the two whole bay leaves before serving the stew to your guests.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe as it focuses on lean protein from seafood and a variety of fresh vegetables.
What type of broth is used?
The base is made using 3 cups of water combined with 2 teaspoons of chicken bouillon granules and tomato paste.
Can I use fresh marjoram instead of dried?
Yes, if using fresh marjoram, you should generally triple the amount (use 1.5 teaspoons) to match the potency of the dried version.
What is the role of tomato paste in this dish?
The 1/4 cup of tomato paste helps thicken the broth and provides a deep, concentrated tomato flavor.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
While the vegetable base can be made ahead, it is best to add the seafood just before serving to prevent it from becoming rubbery.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can this stew be frozen?
It is not recommended to freeze the completed stew as the texture of the cooked seafood and vegetables may degrade upon thawing.
Is this an easy recipe for beginners?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe, making it a great choice for those new to cooking seafood.
What kind of wine pairs well with this stew?
An aromatic white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the Mediterranean flavors.
Do I have to peel the shrimp?
Yes, the recipe specifies using peeled and deveined shrimp for the best eating experience.
What size should the fish pieces be?
The fish fillets should be cut into 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking and bite-sized portions.
Can I substitute the chicken bouillon?
You can use vegetable bouillon or seafood stock instead of chicken bouillon for a different flavor profile.
Is this stew suitable for a winter meal?
Absolutely; it is specifically described as a heartwarming dish perfect for warming up winter evenings.
How much seafood is in total per recipe?
The recipe contains approximately 14 ounces of seafood, consisting of 8 ounces of fish and 6 ounces of shrimp.
What makes this stew Mediterranean?
The combination of garlic, tomatoes, wine, olive-oil aromatics, and seafood is characteristic of Mediterranean and Italian coastal cuisine.