Tomato Garlic Fish Stew
A flavorful Tomato Garlic Fish Stew prepared with tender white fish, ripe tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and herbs, simmered in a white wine and olive oil broth for a refined, Mediterranean-inspired meal.
4 Servings
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped (approximately 1 ½ cups)
- 3 large cloves garlic minced
- ⅔ cup fresh parsley leaves finely chopped
- 1 ½ cups fresh chopped tomatoes or 1 14-ounce can whole or crushed tomatoes with their juices
- 2 teaspoons tomato paste optional, for enhanced richness
- 1 8-ounce bottle clam juice or 1 cup shellfish stock
- ½ cup dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc
- 1 ½ pounds firm white fish fillets, halibut, cod, red snapper, or sea bass cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt plus additional to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper plus additional to taste
- Pinch dried oregano
- Pinch dried thyme
- ⅛ teaspoon Tabasco sauce or more to taste
Instructions
Sauté the aromatics:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for approximately 4 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Add the parsley and cook for 2 minutes to release its aroma.
Add tomatoes and simmer:
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste (if using). Reduce the heat slightly and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the tomatoes begin to break down.
Combine with liquids and fish:
- Pour in the clam juice and white wine, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the fish pieces carefully, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the broth. Simmer uncovered for approximately 3 to 5 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Season and finish:
- Stir in the salt, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and Tabasco sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Simmer for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve:
- Ladle the stew into individual serving bowls and garnish with additional fresh parsley, if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread or steamed rice.
Notes
This Tomato Garlic Fish Stew is naturally gluten-free when prepared with certified gluten-free clam juice, stock, and seasonings. Always verify ingredient labels, as certain commercial broths or spice blends may contain gluten-based additives. For serving, pair with gluten-free artisan bread or cooked white rice instead of traditional baguette slices.