Name: Spanish Seafood Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 red capsicum/bell pepper, chopped; 1/2 tsp chilli flakes (optional); 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1 cup fish or chicken stock; 400g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes; 1 pinch saffron threads; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 300g (10 oz) firm white fish fillets, cut into chunks; 250g (8 oz) raw prawns/shrimp, peeled and deveined; 200g (7 oz) mussels, scrubbed and debearded; 200g (7 oz) squid, cleaned and sliced into rings; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving)

Why You’ll Love Spanish Seafood Stew Recipe

Spanish Seafood Stew is robust yet elegant, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. The combination of fresh seafood and savory broth delivers layers of flavor while the picada adds a distinctive, traditional Catalan touch. Serve with crusty bread to soak up every drop of the rich broth.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

olive oil
firm white fish (such as cod or hake)
shrimp
mussels or clams
garlic
onion
ripe tomatoes or canned tomatoes
potatoes
dry white wine or sherry
fish stock
saffron threads
parsley
almonds (for picada)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped garlic and onion until softened.
Add tomatoes (fresh or canned) and cook until they break down into a sauce.
Stir in the potatoes, white wine, fish stock, and a pinch of saffron. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and simmer until the potatoes begin to soften.
Meanwhile, make the picada: lightly toast garlic and almonds, then crush into a paste.
Stir the picada into the simmering stew, then add chunks of fish and cook briefly.
Add the shellfish (mussels or clams) and shrimp. Cover and cook until the shellfish open and the shrimp turn pink.
Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: about 15 minutes
Cook time: about 40 minutes
Total: about 55 minutes

Variations

• Mixed Seafood: Use a blend of clams, mussels, squid, and prawns for a more complex flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: Add a teaspoon of Spanish smoked paprika for a deeper smoky profile.
• Vegetable Boost: Include bell peppers or fennel for added texture and taste.
• Non‑alcoholic Version: Substitute the wine with extra fish stock or a splash of lemon juice.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Gently rewarm on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of stock or water if the stew has thickened.
• Freezing: Seafood stews don’t freeze well once cooked, as the texture of seafood can become rubbery. It’s better to freeze the broth base separately and add fresh seafood when reheating.

FAQs

What is Spanish Seafood Stew?

It’s a Mediterranean fish and shellfish stew often called suquet de peix in Catalonia, traditionally made with a tomato‑wine broth and aromatic seasonings.

What seafood should I use?

Use firm white fish and a mix of shellfish like mussels, clams, and shrimp. You can adapt based on what’s freshest.

Can I make this without wine?

Yes, replace wine with extra fish stock or a squeeze of lemon juice for acidity.

What is picada?

Picada is a traditional Catalan paste made from garlic and nuts, used to thicken and flavor the stew.

Do I need saffron?

Saffron adds authentic depth and color but can be omitted if unavailable.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prepare the broth and picada ahead, but add seafood just before serving for best texture.

What side dishes pair well?

Crusty bread, a green salad, or grilled vegetables complement the stew nicely.

Is this gluten‑free?

Yes, when made without bread or flour, it’s naturally gluten‑free.

How spicy is this stew?

It’s typically mild, but you can add chili flakes if you like heat.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pot and adjust seasoning and liquid accordingly.

Conclusion

Spanish Seafood Stew is a timeless, satisfying dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean coast to your table. With its rich broth, fresh seafood, and traditional picada, it’s sure to become a favorite whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends. Serve with crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop.