Name: Delicious Cioppino Seafood Stew: A Quick Italian Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 48 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for a lighter option); 1 bulb fennel (only the white part used); 1 medium yellow onion; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon whole fennel seeds (or ground fennel as a substitute); 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on spice preference); 28 ounces crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh); 4 cups seafood stock (or clam juice); 1 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth for non-alcoholic option); to taste kosher salt; to taste freshly ground black pepper; 1 pound cod fillets (or other white fish); 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined); 0.5 pound sea scallops (halved); 1 pound mussels (scrubbed); 1 pound littleneck clams (cleaned); 1 tablespoon anise flavored liqueur (Pernod or Pastis) (optional); 1 tablespoon parsley (minced)

In the heart of a bustling Italian kitchen, the warming aroma of fresh seafood simmering in a zesty tomato broth fills the air. This is the essence of my Authentic Cioppino Seafood Stew, a dish that effortlessly brings the flavors of the coast right to your dinner table. Not only is it a healthy, high-protein option, but it also impressively comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight meal. With a delightful medley of shrimp, cod, and clams, nestled in a rich broth infused with aromatic veggies, this stew is sure to please even the pickiest palates. Are you ready to dive into this delicious Italian classic? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Cioppino Seafood Stew a Must-Try?

Bursting with fresh flavors, this Cioppino Seafood Stew is a culinary delight that balances richness and healthiness. Quick and easy to prepare, it delights busy weeknights without sacrificing taste. Versatile modifications mean you can easily swap seafood or adjust spice levels. And, of course, crowd-pleasing is an understatement; this dish will impress family and friends alike, especially when served with a crusty sourdough baguette for dipping! For those who love hearty flavors, you may also enjoy our delectable Oven Beef Stew or other seafood favorites on our blog!

Cioppino Seafood Stew Ingredients

For the Base

Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables; avocado oil can be used for a lighter option.
Fennel Bulb – Provides a sweet, anise-like flavor to the dish; only the white part is used, but leeks or celery work as substitutes.
Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the broth; shallots offer a milder flavor if desired.
Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor with a robust aroma, using fresh or minced as preferred.
Whole Fennel Seeds – Imparts a subtle licorice taste; ground fennel can be a suitable alternative.
Red Pepper Flakes – Introduces a mild heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
Crushed Tomatoes – Forms the delicious base of the stew, offering acidity and sweetness; fresh tomatoes can substitute but may require longer cooking.
Seafood Stock – Provides a rich foundation for the stew; homemade stock or clam juice can be used instead.
Dry White Wine – Adds depth and enhances acidity; opt for a wine you’d enjoy drinking, or swap with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option.
Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors effectively.

For the Seafood

Cod Fillets – Adds tender, flaky texture; haddock or other white fish are great substitutions.
Large Shrimp – Offers sweetness for a satisfying bite; ensure they’re peeled and deveined beforehand.
Sea Scallops – Enhances the stew with a sumptuous flavor; halving them promotes even cooking.
Mussels – Delivers a briny taste; scrub well prior to cooking for better presentation.
Littleneck Clams – Contributes a sweet, slightly chewy texture; ensure they’re cleaned thoroughly before adding.

For Finishing Touches

Anise Flavored Liqueur (Pernod or Pastis) – Optional, but adds a hint of complexity to the dish.
Parsley – Provides freshness and a garnish of color; minced parsley brightens up the presentation.

Dive into this warm, comforting Cioppino Seafood Stew, and let the blend of flavors and freshness transform your dinner into a coastal Italian escape!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cioppino Seafood Stew

Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Allow it to shimmer before adding the chopped white parts of the fennel bulb and diced yellow onion. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become translucent, releasing their sweet aroma.

Step 2: Aromatics and Spices
Next, add minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pot. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant, and the spices release their flavors. This aromatic blend will elevate your Cioppino Seafood Stew, wrapping your kitchen in savory scents.

Step 3: Build the Broth
Now, stir in a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, 4 cups of seafood stock, and 1 cup of dry white wine. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Add the Seafood
Carefully add the cod fillets, large shrimp, halved sea scallops, and scrubbed mussels to the simmering broth. Arrange the seafood evenly without stirring to prevent breaking apart. Cover the pot and cook for 10 minutes, or until the shrimp is opaque, the fish flakes easily, and the mussels have opened up, adding their delightful briny flavor to the stew.

Step 5: Final Touches
After cooking, carefully stir in a splash of anise-flavored liqueur like Pernod, if using, enhancing the aroma and complexity of your dish. Let the Cioppino Seafood Stew sit covered for 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Discard any mussels that haven’t opened, ensuring a perfect and safe serving.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the steaming Cioppino Seafood Stew into shallow bowls, ensuring each bowl gets a nice variety of seafood. Garnish with freshly minced parsley for a vibrant touch. Serve promptly alongside crusty sourdough baguette slices, perfect for dipping into the rich, flavorful broth. Enjoy the warm comfort of this authentic Italian classic!

How to Store and Freeze Cioppino Seafood Stew

Fridge: Store leftover cioppino in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Freezer: If you wish to freeze cioppino, do so without the seafood. Prepare and cool the broth, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Add fresh seafood when reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the thawed broth on the stove, then add uncooked seafood, cooking until it’s fully cooked through—usually 8-10 minutes. This ensures freshness and preserves texture.
Containers: Use glass containers or freezer bags for freezing. Make sure to leave some space for expansion as liquids can expand when frozen, which helps to prevent spills.

Expert Tips for Cioppino Seafood Stew

Prep Ahead: Preparing the stew base up to 2 days ahead enhances flavor; refrigerate and reheat before adding seafood for a quick dinner.
Mussels Magic: Scrub mussels thoroughly and soak them in flour water to release sand; rinse well before adding to your stew for clean bites.
Shrimp Presentation: For a cleaner look, shell the shrimp before adding them to the stew; it makes for a beautiful serving and easier eating.
Choose the Right Pot: Use a heavy pot to cook your Cioppino Seafood Stew, ensuring even heating and preventing scorching of the broth.
Fresh Ingredients: Stick with fresh seafood as much as possible for vibrant flavors and optimal texture; frozen seafood can work but be sure to thaw it completely.

Enjoy crafting your delicious Cioppino Seafood Stew with these helpful tips tailored to elevate your cooking experience!

Make Ahead Options

This Cioppino Seafood Stew is an excellent option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it with minimal effort on busy nights! You can prepare the broth base (steps 1-3) up to 48 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can clean and devein the shrimp and scrub the mussels ahead of time, keeping them refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your stew, simply reheat the broth gently before adding the seafood (steps 4-6). This method ensures the flavors remain just as delicious, making your dinner a breeze without compromising on quality. Enjoy a comforting bowl of Cioppino Seafood Stew with speed and ease!

What to Serve with Cioppino Seafood Stew

Transform your hearty Cioppino Seafood Stew into a memorable feast with delightful accompanyments that perfectly balance its rich flavors.

Crusty Sourdough Bread: Nothing enhances this stew more than slices of crusty sourdough. Perfect for soaking up the aromatic broth, it’s a comforting classic!
Garlic Butter Shrimp: These shrimp add an extra seafood punch, bringing buttery richness that complements the stew’s flavors and elevates the dining experience.
Simple Arugula Salad: A fresh, peppery arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette offers a light, crunchy contrast, refreshing the palate between spoonfuls of stew.
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: The caramelized sweetness of roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots provides a delightful depth that pairs harmoniously with the savory seafood.
White Wine Spritzer: A crisp, refreshing white wine spritzer is the perfect beverage to cut through the richness of the stew and cleanse the palate.
Lemon Sorbet: Finish your meal on a bright note with a lemon sorbet. Its tartness refreshes your taste buds after the savory stew, making for a well-rounded dining experience.

Cioppino Seafood Stew Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and make this Cioppino Seafood Stew your own with these fun variations!

Dairy-Free: Replace any liqueur with additional seafood stock; this keeps the dish light and perfect for lactose sensitivities.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat that your taste buds will love.
Vegetarian Option: Swap all seafood for hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and artichoke hearts to create a satisfying veggie stew.
Herb Boost: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to elevate the flavor profile and add a vibrant touch. These herbs pair beautifully with the broth, enhancing the overall aroma.
Crustacean Twist: Feel free to substitute shrimp with crab legs or lobster pieces for a more decadent seafood experience. Adding crab provides a sweet, succulent flavor that steals the show!
Sourdough Crust: Instead of pairing with bread slices, make croutons using sourdough; toast and serve them atop the stew for added texture. They soak up the broth beautifully, transforming each bite into a burst of flavor.
Wine Enhancer: Experiment with different wines, like rosé or even a splash of dry vermouth, to give your base both acidity and flavor depth. The choice of wine significantly alters the richness, creating delightful variations.
Instant Pot Delight: For a quick version, use an Instant Pot to combine sauté and pressure cook functions, drastically reducing cooking time while maintaining superb flavors. Here’s a chance to embrace modern cooking methods!

With these variations, your Cioppino Seafood Stew can easily transform into many delightful dishes. For more hearty recipes, check out our Oven Beef Stew or celebrate seafood with our delightful shrimp dishes!

Cioppino Seafood Stew Recipe FAQs

Which seafood is best for Cioppino Seafood Stew?
Absolutely! Fresh ingredients make a world of difference. I recommend using a combination of cod, large shrimp, sea scallops, mussels, and littleneck clams for a delightful medley of flavors and textures. If you can’t find certain types of seafood, feel free to substitute with other firm fish like haddock or even crab for a luxurious twist.

How should I store leftover Cioppino Seafood Stew?
Very simple! Store any leftover cioppino in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally to avoid overcooking the seafood. This way, you can savor that rich, flavorful stew again without losing any of its deliciousness.

Can I freeze Cioppino Seafood Stew?
Yes, you can! However, I recommend freezing the broth without the seafood. To do this, cool the prepared stew base and transfer it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat the broth on the stove, then add fresh seafood, cooking until everything is fully cooked through, usually around 8-10 minutes.

What if my seafood doesn’t cook evenly in the stew?
That’s a great question! To ensure your seafood cooks evenly, add the seafood in a particular order: start with the cod, then the shrimp, followed by the scallops, and lastly the mussels. By layering them and not stirring too much, you give each type of seafood the right amount of time to cook properly. If you notice any mussels that haven’t opened, simply discard them to keep your dish safe and tasty.

Are there any dietary considerations for Cioppino Seafood Stew?
Absolutely! If anyone at your table has shellfish allergies, you can adapt this recipe by using firm vegetables like zucchini or squash for a vegetarian version. Additionally, substituting the dry white wine with chicken broth can make it suitable for those avoiding alcohol. I always recommend checking with your guests before serving!

How can I enhance the flavor of my Cioppino Seafood Stew?
Enhancing flavors is key! For best results, prepare the base of your cioppino up to 2 days ahead. Store it in the fridge, then reheat before adding the seafood. This not only develops deeper flavors but also makes your cooking process quicker when you’re ready to serve. Another tip is to add a splash of anise-flavored liqueur like Pernod for a lovely aromatic touch, if you like!