Cioppino(Pronounced Chee-O-Pee-No - Italian Seafood Stew)
A flavorful Italian seafood stew featuring tomatoes, herbs, and tender fish, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a hearty, aromatic dish with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic minced ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon olive oil ⓘ
- 16 ounces canned tomatoes cut up
- 8 ounces canned tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 cup dry red wine ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons chopped parsley ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed dried oregano ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed dried basil ⓘ
- dash of pepper ⓘ
- 1 pound frozen perch fillets ⓘ
- 7.5 ounces can minced clams ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, cook green pepper, onion, and garlic in olive oil until tender, but not brown.
- Add undrained tomatoes, tomato sauce, wine, parsley, salt, oregano, basil, and pepper; bring to boiling.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. If you can't find perch, substitute with any firm white fish like cod or haddock. Fresh herbs can enhance the dish; use fresh basil and parsley if available. Ensure to thaw the frozen fish beforehand for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cioppino hot, garnished with additional parsley and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping, or serve alongside a simple green salad to balance the richness. For a hearty meal, consider pairing with Pasta A La Chef Andre for a delightful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cioppino in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the seafood and affect texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cioppino(Pronounced Chee-O-Pee-No - Italian Seafood Stew) contains roughly 1226 calories, with 5g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 122g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 527mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh seafood instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh seafood will add an even more vibrant flavor to your cioppino. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as fresh fish may cook faster than frozen. Shrimp, scallops, or mussels are excellent additions for variety.
What can I do if the stew is too thick?
If your cioppino turns out too thick, simply add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir in gradually until you achieve the perfect texture. Remember, the stew should be hearty but not overly thick.
Can I make cioppino ahead of time?
Yes, cioppino can be made ahead of time! In fact, the flavors often improve as it sits. Just make sure to store it properly and reheat gently to preserve the seafood's texture. Enjoy it within a few days for the best taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).