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Sicilian Fish Stew

Sicilian Fish Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines seafood, vegetables, and aromatic spices for a delightful Mediterranean experience.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Serving Size 6 servings

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing and herb oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust according to heat preference
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cups fish stock
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1/2 cup sliced kalamata olives
  • 2 tablespoons capers
  • 3 sprigs thyme
  • 2 cups cooked orzo
  • 2 pounds white fish fillets, cut into 2-inch pieces Use firm white fish like cod, haddock, or halibut

Herb Oil Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup olive oil for the herb oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons basil, finely chopped

Serving Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan For topping

Instructions

Preparation

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, sauté until tender, about 7-8 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for 1 minute.
  • Add the tomato paste, mix well, and cook for 1 minute until caramelized.

Cooking

  • Add the crushed tomatoes, white wine, fish stock, olives, capers, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Making Herb Oil

  • In a heatproof bowl, place the chopped parsley and basil. Heat 1/4 cup of olive oil in a small saucepan with the crushed garlic over low heat until the garlic is golden and softened. Remove from heat and pour the hot oil over the herbs. Let cool completely.

Final Steps

  • Add the cooked orzo and fish to the stew, increase heat to medium, and let simmer for 5 minutes or until the fish is cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Serve the Sicilian fish stew in bowls, drizzled with garlic herb oil. Sprinkle with grated parmesan and serve with crusty bread if desired.

Notes

Leftover Sicilian Fish Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store longer, consider freezing it; note that the texture of the fish might change upon reheating. This stew can benefit from being made a day ahead—flavors will deepen and improve overnight.