February 3, 2024

Seafood Sensation: Dive into the Rich Flavors of Homemade Cioppino!

Cioppino Seafood Stew Recipe

Cioppino is a rich and comforting seafood stew with Italian-American roots, especially beloved in San Francisco. This tomato-garlic broth brimming with clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish makes the perfect one-pot dish for cozy reading nights or entertaining fellow book lovers.

Why You'll Love This Cioppino

  • Versatile Seafood Medley: Customize with your favorite seafood—shrimp, mussels, crab, and more.
  • Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with lean proteins and bold, savory flavors.
  • Simple One-Pot Meal: Easy enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests.
  • Deep-Rooted Tradition: A taste of San Francisco’s Italian heritage in every spoonful.

Cioppino Seafood Stew Recipe

Impressive book club dish that pairs beautifully with rich, complex novels

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Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) San Marzano diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 2 cups fish stock or seafood broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 lb mixed seafood (clams, mussels, squid, scallops, white fish)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (serving)
  • Polenta or crusty bread

Instructions

    Cioppino in Skillet
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft (about 5 minutes), then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  2. Stir in diced tomatoes, white wine, broth, oregano, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Add the mixed seafood. Cover and cook 5-7 minutes, until clams and mussels open. Discard any unopened shells.
  4. Adjust seasoning as needed and remove bay leaf.
  5. Serve hot over polenta or crusty bread, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon.

Serving Suggestions

A crisp green salad and gluten-free bread are perfect sides. To keep it keto, skip the polenta and enjoy as a standalone stew.

Leftover Ideas

Transform leftovers into a seafood pasta, stuffed bell peppers, or a hearty baked potato topping.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Best Wine Pairings

  • Chardonnay: Buttery and rich, complements the tomato broth.
  • Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp, citrusy, and refreshing.
  • Pinot Grigio: Light-bodied with clean fruity notes.
  • Rosé: Dry and slightly fruity for balance.
  • Pinot Noir: A light red wine option that won’t overpower the dish.

Keto & Low-Carb Options

  • Skip polenta or bread and enjoy the stew on its own.
  • Substitute cauliflower rice as a low-carb side.
  • Use fewer tomatoes or opt for lower-carb varieties.
  • Select a dry white wine with minimal sugar content.
  • Bulk it up with bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.

This Cioppino recipe is a flavorful way to bring coastal comfort food into your kitchen—perfectly paired with a good book and a glass of wine!

Find the Perfect Reading Pairing

Love combining good food with a good book? Explore my curated pairings where recipes meet reading—whether you're planning a book club night or a cozy solo escape.

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