Cioppino is a classic seafood stew that’s perfect for cozy evenings with family or friends. The combination of tender shrimp, succulent scallops, and fresh mussels, all simmered in a savory tomato broth, creates a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture.
Serve this seafood stew with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the delicious broth. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a weeknight meal, Cioppino is guaranteed to satisfy your seafood cravings and bring a taste of the coast to your home kitchen.
Full Recipe:
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1 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 lb. scallops
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1 lb. mussels
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1 lb. clams
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1 lb. white fish (such as cod or halibut), cut into pieces
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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1 medium onion, chopped
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1 bell pepper, chopped
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
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1 cup dry white wine
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2 cups fish stock or water
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
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1 bay leaf
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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Crusty bread for serving
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
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Add the crushed tomatoes, white wine, fish stock (or water), oregano, red pepper flakes, and bay leaf. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer.
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Add the shrimp, scallops, mussels, clams, and white fish to the pot. Stir gently, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and the mussels and clams have opened.
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Remove the bay leaf, and season the stew with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
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Stir in fresh parsley and basil just before serving.
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Serve the cioppino hot, with crusty bread on the side for dipping into the delicious broth.
Prep Time: 15 minutes / Cooking Time: 30 minutes / Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 400 kcal / Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Cioppino: A Classic Seafood Stew
Cioppino is a delicious and hearty seafood stew that originated in San Francisco, California, in the late 19th century. The dish was born out of the local Italian-American fishing community’s ingenuity, blending fresh seafood caught off the coast with robust flavors. It’s often associated with a rich tomato-based broth, red wine, and a variety of shellfish and fish, creating a dish that’s as flavorful as it is comforting. Its creation can be credited to Italian immigrants who made use of the bountiful seafood available in the Bay Area, and over time, it evolved into a beloved dish that’s enjoyed by many around the world.
The Origins of Cioppino: A Blend of Cultures
The history of Cioppino is rooted in the immigrant experience, blending Italian culinary traditions with the abundance of fresh seafood found along the California coast. The dish was likely inspired by the Italian fish stews and soups such as “Cacciucco” from the Tuscany region, which also uses a variety of seafood in a rich, tomato-based broth. However, Cioppino distinguishes itself by incorporating the unique flavors of the Bay Area, including the use of local shellfish like Dungeness crab, mussels, clams, and a variety of fish.
San Francisco’s Italian immigrants brought their knowledge of traditional Italian cooking, but they had to adapt their recipes to the ingredients available to them in their new home. The availability of fresh seafood meant they could create a hearty, rich stew that captured the essence of their homeland while embracing the new flavors and ingredients of California.
The Best Seafood to Use in Cioppino
One of the defining features of Cioppino is its use of fresh seafood. The best Cioppino features a variety of fish and shellfish, each contributing to the dish’s depth of flavor. Typically, the stew will include a combination of fish like cod, halibut, or sea bass, along with shellfish such as clams, mussels, and shrimp. Dungeness crab, a local specialty in California, is often added, making the dish even more luxurious and flavorful.
When selecting seafood for Cioppino, it’s important to focus on freshness. Fresh, sustainably sourced seafood will ensure the best possible flavor and texture in your stew. If you’re unable to find certain types of shellfish, feel free to substitute with other shellfish, but the key is to use a variety of seafood for a rich, layered taste.
Cioppino’s Rich Tomato-Based Broth: The Heart of the Dish
The broth is the soul of Cioppino, and it’s typically a savory and tangy mixture of tomatoes, white wine, garlic, onions, and herbs. The addition of fish stock or water enhances the depth of the broth, while a touch of red pepper flakes gives it a mild heat. This broth simmers with the seafood, allowing the flavors to meld together. Some variations also include a splash of brandy or sherry, which adds a slightly sweet and aromatic layer to the stew.
The use of fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, and parsley helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the overall flavor profile. The result is a rich, fragrant broth that perfectly complements the tender seafood, creating a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
How to Make the Perfect Cioppino at Home
Making Cioppino at home may sound intimidating, but it’s actually quite simple. The key to a great Cioppino is building layers of flavor. Begin by sautéing garlic, onions, and bell peppers in olive oil to create a flavorful base. Once the vegetables are softened, add the tomatoes and white wine, and let the mixture simmer to develop the flavors. Then, it’s time to add the seafood, starting with the fish, and then layering in the shellfish. The stew should simmer gently, allowing the seafood to cook through and absorb the flavors of the broth.
What makes Cioppino so wonderful is its versatility. You can adjust the ingredients based on your preferences and the seafood available to you. It’s a dish that invites creativity, and you can experiment with different kinds of fish and shellfish depending on your tastes. You can also adjust the spiciness of the broth by adding more or less red pepper flakes, making it as mild or as bold as you like.
Cioppino Variations: Personalizing Your Stew
While the traditional Cioppino includes a variety of seafood, there are many ways to personalize this dish. For example, some versions of Cioppino may include a dash of Pernod, a licorice-flavored spirit that gives the broth a unique flavor. Others may use a combination of tomato paste and crushed tomatoes to create a thicker, richer broth. Some home cooks even add a bit of heavy cream for a creamy, luxurious finish, though this is a less traditional variation.
Vegetarians can also enjoy a plant-based version of Cioppino. By replacing the seafood with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and artichokes, and using vegetable broth instead of fish stock, you can create a satisfying and flavorful vegetarian stew. Though it deviates from the original, this variation still retains the essence of the dish—warmth, richness, and depth of flavor.
Pairing Cioppino with Wine: Enhancing the Meal
Since Cioppino is made with wine, it’s no surprise that the perfect wine pairing can elevate the meal. A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, is an ideal choice to pair with Cioppino. The crisp acidity of these wines complements the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the delicate flavors of the seafood. If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir could work well, though it’s best to avoid heavy, tannin-rich wines that may overpower the dish.
In addition to wine, Cioppino is often served with crusty bread, perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. A simple baguette or sourdough bread pairs wonderfully with the stew, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Cioppino for Special Occasions and Everyday Meals
While Cioppino is often considered a special occasion dish due to its luxurious seafood ingredients, it can also be a comforting weeknight meal if you have access to fresh seafood. The beauty of Cioppino lies in its simplicity—it’s easy to prepare, yet it feels like a decadent feast. Whether you’re making it for a holiday dinner, a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to a delicious homemade meal, Cioppino is always a crowd-pleaser.
Additionally, Cioppino is a great dish for sharing. The communal nature of the stew, with everyone dipping their bread into the broth and savoring the seafood, makes it perfect for family gatherings or intimate dinner parties.
Conclusion: The Timeless Appeal of Cioppino
Cioppino is more than just a seafood stew—it’s a symbol of culinary creativity, history, and the blending of cultural influences. This dish brings together the freshest seafood, a savory tomato broth, and an array of spices and herbs, creating a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or enjoying it on a quiet evening, Cioppino is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves seafood.
With its versatility and rich flavors, Cioppino remains a beloved dish that has stood the test of time. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or get creative with your own variations, this dish will always be a comforting and delicious option for seafood lovers.