A bowl of Mediterranean fish stew brings the taste of the sea straight to your table. Simmered with ripe tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and a splash of wine, this rustic dish captures the warmth of coastal cooking. It’s a simple yet elegant way to enjoy fresh fish, perfect for a cozy dinner or when you want to impress guests with authentic flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh firm white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or halibut), cut into large chunks
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced into thick rings
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or hot paprika if you like spice)
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus a few sprigs for garnish)
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2/3 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup fish stock or water
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a wide heavy pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat.
- Layer the onion slices to cover the bottom of the pot. Scatter the carrot and fennel over the onion.
- Place the fish chunks on top. Sprinkle with garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the white wine and stock.
- Toss in a few parsley sprigs on top.
- Cover the pot with the lid slightly askew and cook over medium-high heat for about 15 minutes, gently shaking the pot once or twice (don’t stir, or the fish will break apart).
- Remove the parsley sprigs before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with plenty of crusty bread for dipping.
Best enjoyed outdoors with good friends and a chilled glass of white wine.
