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Fish, Saffron and Tomato Stew

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A comforting and elegant one-pot fish stew featuring tender salmon and firm white fish simmered in a saffron-tomato broth with aromatic vegetables and potatoes. It’s hearty, wholesome, and perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium brown onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 small leek, thinly sliced
  • 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced, fronds reserved
  • 1 celery stalk, trimmed and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 800 g canned diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups fish stock
  • 2 cups cold water
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (about a large pinch)
  • 200 g chat potatoes, quartered
  • 200 g salmon fillet, skin removed and chopped into large pieces
  • 400 g boneless firm white fish fillets, chopped into large pieces
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, leek, fennel, and celery. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant but not browned.
  2. Add white wine, if using, and simmer for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  3. Stir in diced tomatoes, fish stock, cold water, saffron, and potatoes. Bring to a gentle boil.
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and broth slightly thickened.
  5. Gently add the salmon and white fish pieces to the pot, submerging them in the broth. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the fish is just cooked and flakes easily.
  6. Remove from heat, sprinkle with reserved fennel fronds, and serve hot with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Use firm white fish like cod, hoki, or pollock to maintain structure during cooking.
  • You can omit saffron if unavailable—the stew will still be flavorful.
  • Add extra vegetables like zucchini or green beans during simmering for variety.
  • Letting the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld.
  • For a creamier version, stir in a splash of cream just before serving.

Nutrition