Description

There’s something truly special about a comforting bowl of Bouillabaisse—a traditional French seafood stew brimming with aromatic spices, fresh seafood, and a rich broth. This hearty dish is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a luxurious, home-cooked meal. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring the flavors of Provence to your table!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Broth:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 leeks (white and light green parts), thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 large fennel bulb, thinly sliced
1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
6 cups fish or seafood stock
1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
1/2 cup orange juice
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Seafood:

1 lb firm white fish (such as cod, halibut, or snapper), cut into chunks
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 lb mussels or clams, cleaned and scrubbed
1/2 lb squid or scallops (optional)

Optional Garnish:

Chopped fresh parsley
Lemon wedges
Crusty bread or baguette, for serving

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, leeks, garlic, and fennel, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Stir in the tomatoes, saffron, thyme, bay leaf, and orange juice. Cook for another 2 minutes to release the flavors.
Pour in the fish stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Add the Seafood

Add the firm white fish chunks to the broth and simmer for 5 minutes.
Gently stir in the shrimp, mussels (or clams), and squid/scallops (if using). Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the mussels have opened. Discard any mussels or clams that do not open.

Step 3: Serve

Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Ladle the bouillabaisse into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread or a baguette on the side to soak up the flavorful broth.

Notes

Fresh Seafood is Key: Use the freshest seafood you can find for the best flavor.
Don’t Rush the Broth: Letting it simmer ensures a depth of flavor that makes this dish shine.
Customize Your Seafood: Feel free to use your favorites or what’s available at your local market.
Toast the Bread: Slightly charred or toasted bread enhances the flavor when dipped into the broth.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: American