Italian Fisherman’s Stew (Cacciucco)

If you’re craving a rich and hearty seafood dish packed with deep flavors, this Italian Fisherman’s Stew (Cacciucco) is the perfect choice. This traditional Tuscan dish is a bold, tomato-based stew filled with a variety of seafood, garlic, and fragrant herbs. It’s the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers and pairs perfectly with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious broth!

What Makes This Recipe Special?

• Authentic Italian Flavors: A perfect blend of tomatoes, garlic, and seafood.
• One-Pot Meal: Easy to prepare and minimal cleanup.
• Rich and Comforting: A deep, flavorful broth that warms you from the inside out.
• Customizable: Use your favorite seafood to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Stew

• Olive Oil (3 tbsp) – Adds richness and enhances the flavors.
• Onion (1 large, chopped) – Brings sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Essential for that bold Italian flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp) – Adds a slight heat to the dish.
• Crushed Tomatoes (1 can, 28 oz) – Forms the base of the stew.
• Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Deepens the tomato flavor.
• White Fish Fillets (1 lb, cut into chunks) – Cod, halibut, or snapper work well.
• Shrimp (½ lb, peeled and deveined) – Brings a delicate sweetness.
• Calamari (½ lb, sliced) – Adds a tender, chewy texture.
• Mussels or Clams (1 lb, cleaned) – Brings briny depth to the broth.
• Fish Stock or Seafood Broth (4 cups) – The foundation of the stew.
• Dry Bay Leaf (1) – Enhances the aromatic depth.
• Fresh Thyme (1 tsp) – Brings earthiness.
• Fresh Parsley (¼ cup, chopped) – For garnish and freshness.
• Salt & Black Pepper – To taste.
• Lemon Wedges – For serving.

For Serving

• Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A drizzle on top for extra richness.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife for chopping
• Ladle for serving

How to Make Italian Fisherman’s Stew (Cacciucco)

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Base
Add tomato paste and stir for a minute to deepen the flavor. Pour in crushed tomatoes and fish stock. Stir in bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Add the Seafood
Start with the firmest fish first—add the chunks of white fish and let them cook for 5 minutes. Then add shrimp, calamari, and mussels/clams. Cover and simmer for another 5–7 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink, the calamari is tender, and the mussels/clams have opened. Discard any that do not open.

Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove the bay leaf and stir in fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with crusty bread and lemon wedges on the side. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for extra richness.

What to Serve with Cacciucco

• Grilled or Toasted Bread – The best way to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Simple Green Salad – A fresh contrast to the rich stew.
• Roasted Vegetables – A perfect side for a well-rounded meal.

Tips for the Best Italian Fisherman’s Stew

• Use Fresh Seafood: The fresher the seafood, the better the flavor.
• Don’t Overcook: Add seafood in stages to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.
• Make It Ahead: The broth can be made a day in advance to enhance the flavors.
• Customize It: Add scallops, crab, or lobster for an even richer stew.

How to Store and Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freeze: Avoid freezing as seafood can become rubbery when reheated.
• Reheat: Warm gently over low heat on the stove. Avoid boiling to prevent overcooking the seafood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes! Just thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the stew.

What if I don’t have fish stock?
You can use vegetable or chicken broth, but seafood broth gives the best flavor.

Can I make this less spicy?
Absolutely! Just skip the red pepper flakes or use a smaller amount.

Conclusion

Italian Fisherman’s Stew (Cacciucco) is a bold, flavorful dish that brings the taste of the sea right to your table. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Serve it with crusty bread, a drizzle of olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon for the perfect finishing touch!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Italian

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 320 | Protein: 35g | Carbohydrates: 18g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 580mg

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