Zuppa di Pesce: Italian Seafood Stew

Bring the flavors of coastal Italy to your kitchen with Zuppa di Pesce, a hearty seafood stew brimming with a variety of fresh fish, tender clams, and succulent squid. Simmered in a rich fish and tomato broth, this rustic dish is perfect for a cozy dinner. Served with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors, Zuppa di Pesce is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into this classic Italian seafood dish!

Ingredients

For the Stew:

• 1/2 pound white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock), cut into chunks
• 1/2 pound squid, cleaned and cut into rings
• 1/2 pound clams, cleaned
• 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups fish stock or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup white grape juice
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon fennel seeds (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving:

• Crusty bread, for dipping

Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Tomatoes and Spices:
   Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, fennel seeds (if using), red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Add the Broth and Juice:
   Pour in the fish stock and white grape juice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes.
4. Add the Seafood:
   Add the squid, shrimp, clams, and white fish chunks to the simmering broth. Cover the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the clams open, and the fish and squid are cooked through. Discard any clams that do not open.
5. Season and Garnish:
   Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley.
6. Serve with Crusty Bread:
   Ladle the Zuppa di Pesce into bowls and serve with plenty of crusty bread for dipping.

How to Prepare

The key to this stew is using a mix of fresh seafood and allowing the flavors of the broth to develop with the tomatoes and seasonings. To ensure tender seafood, be careful not to overcook the fish, squid, and shrimp. Clams add a briny depth to the broth, while the fennel and white grape juice provide a subtle sweetness, balancing the rich tomato base.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: About 40 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4 people.

FAQs

• Can I use different seafood? Yes! Feel free to mix in mussels, lobster, or other types of fish.
• Can I make this stew ahead of time? The broth can be made ahead, but add the seafood just before serving to avoid overcooking.
• What pairs well with Zuppa di Pesce? A simple green salad and a glass of sparkling water or juice make perfect companions to this stew.
• How do I make the broth richer? Add a splash of extra olive oil or a bit more stock for a deeper flavor.