Description
Cioppino is a rustic and flavorful Italian-American seafood stew that’s perfect for special occasions or a comforting dinner at home. This one-pot wonder is packed with tender fish, shellfish, and a rich, herby tomato broth. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up all that goodness!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups seafood stock or chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 lb firm white fish (e.g., cod, halibut), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb scallops
- 1/2 lb mussels or clams, scrubbed and cleaned
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Crusty bread (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Build the Base
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Prepare the Broth
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, seafood stock, water, tomato paste, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 20 minutes to develop the flavors.
Step 3: Add the Seafood
5. Add the fish and scallops to the pot. Simmer gently for 5 minutes.
6. Add the shrimp, mussels, and clams. Cover the pot and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels and clams open (discard any that don’t open).
Step 4: Finish the Dish
7. Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
8. Ladle the cioppino into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
Notes
- Fresh Seafood is Key: Use the freshest seafood available for the best flavor.
- Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables and clean your seafood ahead of time for a seamless cooking process.
- Customize Your Seafood: Add calamari, crab legs, or your favorite shellfish to make it your own.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American