Spanish Seafood Stew

Spanish Seafood Stew, also known as Zarzuela de Mariscos, is a flavorful and aromatic dish that highlights a variety of seafood cooked in a rich tomato-based broth. It is a popular traditional dish in Spanish cuisine.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) mixed seafood (such as shrimp, mussels, clams, squid, and firm white fish fillets), cleaned and deveined
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14 ounces/400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup fish or seafood broth
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Pinch of saffron threads (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for a few minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.
2. Add the diced red and yellow bell peppers to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Stir in the smoked paprika, dried oregano, and saffron threads (if using). Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to blend.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, fish or seafood broth, and white wine. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Bring the stew to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the mixed seafood to the pot, placing the larger and thicker pieces at the bottom. Gently stir to submerge the seafood in the broth.
7. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and the shells of the mussels and clams have opened. Discard any unopened shells.
8. Once the seafood is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the stew for garnish.
9. Serve the Spanish Seafood Stew hot with crusty bread or over cooked rice or pasta.

This Spanish Seafood Stew is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together the flavors of the sea in a hearty and satisfying way. The combination of different seafood cooked in a flavorful tomato-based broth creates a delicious and aromatic stew that is perfect for seafood lovers. Enjoy the taste of Spain with this traditional seafood dish!