Portuguese Seafood Stew (Caldeirada)

Portuguese Seafood Stew (Caldeirada)

Portuguese Seafood Stew, or Caldeirada de Marisco, is a flavorful and hearty dish that showcases the best of Portuguese coastal cuisine.

This savory stew features a variety of fresh seafood, such as fish, shrimp, and shellfish, all simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. Infused with aromatic herbs, garlic, and a touch of white wine, this stew is a comforting meal perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings.

The combination of seafood and vegetables like potatoes and bell peppers makes this dish both filling and satisfying. Paired with a slice of crusty bread, it’s a perfect representation of Portugal’s love for fresh, vibrant flavors.

Ingredients:

For the Seafood Stew:

1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or tilapia), cut into large chunks

1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/2 lb mussels, cleaned and debearded

1/2 lb clams, scrubbed

1 onion, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, sliced

2 medium tomatoes, chopped

2 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced

1/2 cup dry white wine

4 cups fish stock (or water)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon saffron threads (optional)

1 bay leaf

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

How to Make:

Prepare the Base:

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the sliced red bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the tomatoes break down and release their juices.

Add the Liquids and Seasoning:

Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits from the vegetables. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol.

Add the fish stock (or water), smoked paprika, saffron (if using), bay leaf, and salt and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.

Cook the Potatoes:

Once the broth is boiling, add the sliced potatoes and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the potatoes cook for about 15 minutes, or until they are tender but still holding their shape.

Add the Seafood:

Once the potatoes are almost done, add the fish chunks to the pot. Simmer for about 5 minutes, then add the shrimp, mussels, and clams. Cover the pot and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, the mussels and clams have opened, and the fish is fully cooked. Discard any mussels or clams that do not open.

Finish the Stew:

Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or paprika as needed. Remove the bay leaf and discard.

Serve:

Ladle the seafood stew into bowls, ensuring each serving has a good mix of seafood and vegetables.

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of acidity.

Enjoy:

Serve the Portuguese Seafood Stew with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. Enjoy this comforting, rich, and satisfying dish!

Chef’s Note:

For a more authentic experience, you can use a variety of fresh seafood, such as squid or octopus, and adjust the types of fish based on what’s available in your area. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes into the broth for added richness. The saffron adds a lovely depth of flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can omit it or substitute with a pinch of turmeric for color.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

Calories: 310

Protein: 30g

Carbohydrates: 24g

Fat: 10g

Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 5g

Sodium: 720mg

Portuguese Seafood Stew is a delightful, aromatic dish that highlights the fresh and vibrant flavors of the sea. With its combination of tender seafood, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, this stew is a satisfying meal that brings the essence of Portugal to your table. Enjoy it with a glass of white wine and the company of loved ones for a perfect meal!