Cacciucco di Mare Recipe Guide

Cacciucco di Mare, a traditional Tuscan seafood stew, is a rich and flavorful dish that showcases the best of the ocean. This recipe is a delightful blend of various fish and shellfish, simmered in a savory broth, and served with crusty bread. From my own personal experience, I’ve found that this dish not only warms the soul but also brings a bit of the Italian coastline to your kitchen. It’s a dish that can impress your guests or simply be enjoyed on a cozy night in. Let me show you how I make this comforting and delicious seafood stew.

Notes on What to Expect

When making Cacciucco di Mare, expect a rich, flavorful broth infused with the essence of the sea. The combination of fresh seafood and aromatic vegetables creates a comforting and hearty dish. The crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth, making every bite satisfying.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Time to Stand: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Moderate
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350
• Cost of Ingredients: $25-$35 (varies by location and season)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Dish

Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Ladle
• Bowls for serving
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Cacciucco di Mare  here.

Ingredients

• Seafood:
  • 1 pound firm white fish (like cod or halibut), cut into chunks
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 pound mussels, cleaned
  • 1 pound clams, scrubbed
• For the Broth:
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
  • 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups fish stock or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• For Serving:
  • Crusty bread, toasted
  • Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Cacciucco di Mare  here.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Start by cleaning the seafood. Scrub the mussels and clams under cold running water, removing any beards. Peel and devein the shrimp and chop the fish into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Broth:
   • Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), fish stock, and white wine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Season the Broth:
   • Add the red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning as needed. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes to develop the flavors.
5. Add the Seafood:
   • Gently add the chunks of fish, shrimp, mussels, and clams to the pot. Stir carefully to combine. Cover the pot and cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the mussels and clams have opened and the fish is cooked through.
6. Let it Stand:
   • Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Serve:
   • Ladle the Cacciucco di Mare into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve with toasted crusty bread for dipping.

Variations

• Different Seafood: You can substitute or add other seafood like squid or octopus for a more diverse flavor profile.
• Spicy Version: For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chili.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the seafood with hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and artichokes, and use vegetable broth.

Tips and Substitutions

• Freshness Matters: Using fresh seafood will significantly enhance the flavor. If fresh isn’t available, frozen seafood can work as a substitute.
• Gluten-Free Option: Serve the stew without bread or use gluten-free bread for dipping.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and adjust seasoning accordingly to control sodium intake.
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Cacciucco di Mare  here.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: Varies based on broth used

I hope this guide has made making Cacciucco di Mare seem a little less daunting! Have you tried it before? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below. I like to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please leave your honest comment! Enjoy your cooking adventure!