Catalan Fish Stew (Suquet de Peix)
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the irresistible aroma and exquisite flavors of Catalan Fish Stew. This hearty and comforting dish, born from the coastal traditions of Catalonia, showcases the bountiful treasures of the sea and the region's rich culinary heritage. Join me as we delve into the secrets of this authentic recipe.
Equipment
- 2 medium saucepan or skillet
- paper towels
- 1 blender
Ingredients
- 2 tomatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound waxy potatoes, peeled (optional) and cut into 1⁄3-inch-thick slices
- 1 1⁄2 cups fish stock
- 1⁄2 cup dry white wine or Spanish sherry
- Pinch of saffron threads
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 8 medium or large raw shrimp, peeled or not, as preferred
- 8 mussels, brushed and debearded
- 1⁄2 pound firm white fish fillets (cod, halibut, or hake), cut into chunks
Picada
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 large cloves garlic, peeled
- 10 raw almonds
- 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley
Instructions
- Heat some olive oil over medium heat in a medium saucepan or skillet.
- Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, and garlic. Stir-cook for 8–10 minutes until sauce is thickened.
- Add the potatoes, wine, and stock; mix in the sugar, saffron, and salt.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Heat some olive oil over medium heat in a medium saucepan or skillet.
- Add the garlic and almonds and stir-cook until the almonds are evenly brown. Drain over paper towels.
- Add the almond mixture and some liquid from the stew to a blender and blend to make a fine paste
- Mix the paste with the stew mixture; add the fish chunks and mix again. Cook for 4 minutes.
- Mix in the shrimp and mussels, cook until shrimp are slightly pink and mussels are opened. Serve warm.
Video
Notes
Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of fish in your Catalan Fish Stew. Opt for firm-fleshed varieties like cod, halibut, or haddock. The key is to choose fish that can hold up well during the cooking process, delivering tender and succulent bites. Try your favorite fish or mix different kinds to create a unique flavor profile. Share your own fish combinations in the comments below!