Zuppa di Pesce Recipe: A Flavorful Italian Seafood Stew

Zuppa di Pesce, or Italian seafood stew, is a traditional dish that combines fresh seafood, aromatic herbs, and a savory tomato base. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a cozy meal at home. Served with crusty bread or over pasta, Zuppa di Pesce will transport you to the Italian coast with every bite.

What Is Zuppa di Pesce?

Zuppa di Pesce is a classic Italian seafood stew made with a mix of fresh shellfish, fish, and a flavorful tomato-based broth. This dish is known for its versatility, as you can customize the seafood and spices to suit your taste. The combination of mussels, clams, shrimp, and firm white fish creates a symphony of flavors that pairs beautifully with the rich broth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal prep make this a great recipe for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
• Customizable: Use your favorite seafood or adjust the seasoning to make it your own.
• Authentic Flavor: A rich tomato base and fragrant herbs create a dish reminiscent of coastal Italian cuisine.
• One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup is required, making it practical and efficient.

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups fish or vegetable stock
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Seafood:

• 1 lb mussels, scrubbed and debearded
• 1 lb clams, scrubbed
• ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ lb firm white fish (e.g., cod, halibut), cut into chunks

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Base

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic, chopped onion, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes.

Simmering the Broth

3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, fish or vegetable stock, white wine, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Adding the Seafood

5. Add the mussels and clams to the pot. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the shells open (discard any that remain closed).
6. Gently stir in the shrimp and chunks of fish. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and the fish is fully cooked.

Finishing Touches

7. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
8. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Serve over al dente pasta for a heartier meal.
• Accompany with a glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the seafood.

Freezing Instructions

• While the broth can be frozen, it’s best to add fresh seafood when reheating, as cooked seafood can become rubbery after freezing.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Vegetable Additions: Include diced zucchini, fennel, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure the stock is gluten-free and serve with gluten-free bread or pasta.
• Vegan Option: Swap seafood for hearty vegetables like mushrooms and artichokes, and use vegetable stock.

FAQs

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, just thaw the seafood completely before adding it to the stew for even cooking.

What type of fish works best for this recipe?

Firm white fish like cod, halibut, or sea bass are ideal as they hold their shape well during cooking.

How do I clean mussels and clams?

Scrub the shells under cold water and remove the “beard” from mussels. Discard any that are cracked or don’t close when tapped.

Zuppa di Pesce is a celebration of fresh, flavorful seafood in a comforting tomato-based broth. It’s easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, making it a favorite for both novice and seasoned cooks. Try this recipe for your next dinner and experience the taste of Italy at home.

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