Easy & Delicious Fish Stew Recipe (My Family Is Obsessed With It)

This Mediterranean-style fish stew recipe is light yet flavorful...it features tender white fish simmered in a rich tomato and white wine broth. How good does that sound?! Plus, it couldn't be easier to make. Just a handful of simple steps are all you have to follow to make it.

Why I Love This Recipe

The first time I had fish stew was at a seaside taverna in Greece, and it was love at first bite! When we got back from our trip my wife tried recreating it at home, and she knocked it out of the park.

So, that's the recipe I'm sharing with you today.

Every slurp of this stuff is a little taste of savory heaven. The tomatoes, onions, tender fish, wine, and garlic all work so well together, after you make it for the first time, I know you're going to want to make it again and again. That's what's happened in our house anyway. 

 

Ingredients

Here's everything you'll need to make this recipe:

For the Stew:

• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 large garlic cloves, minced
• ⅔ cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
• 1½ cups fresh tomato, diced
• 2 teaspoons tomato paste (optional)
• 1 cup shellfish stock
• ½ cup dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc recommended)
• 1½ pounds firm white fish fillets (halibut, cod, red snapper, or sea bass), cut into 2-inch pieces
• Pinch of dried oregano
• Pinch of dried thyme
• ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

How to Make the Best Fish Stew

Again, just five simple steps are all you have to follow to make this amazing stew.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions and sauté for 4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 2: Build the Tomato Base

Add diced tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring gently. Cook for 10 minutes, then stir in parsley, oregano, and thyme, cooking for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits. Add shellfish stock, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Fish

Gently add the fish pieces to the pot, cover, and let cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the fish is flaky and cooked through.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot with crusty bread or rice to soak up the delicious broth!

My Expert Tips

• Use Fresh Fish: Firm white fish like halibut, cod, or snapper hold up best in stews.
• Don’t Overcook the Fish: Once it flakes easily, it’s ready!
• Enhance the Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Use a Homemade Stock: If you don’t have shellfish stock, substitute with fish stock or vegetable broth.
• Make it a Meal: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.

FAQ's About This Fish Stew Recipe

What kind of fish is best for stew?

Firm white fish like halibut, cod, sea bass, or red snapper work best because they hold their shape while simmering.

Can I add other kinds of seafood?

Yes! Feel free to add shrimp, mussels, or scallops for a seafood medley.

How do I store and reheat fish stew?

Store your leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.

Can I make this fish stew ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the base ahead of time and add the fish just before serving to keep it fresh and tender.

My Final Thoughts

This one-pot Mediterranean fish stew is light, comforting, and bursting with flavor.

Plus, it’s easy to make, yet elegant enough for special occasions.

Whether you’re craving a cozy seafood dinner or a rustic Italian-style fish stew, this recipe is a must-try!

More Soups And Stew Recipes to Try Next

• Cowboy soup
• Italian penicillin soup
• Chicken and sweetcorn soup
• Cowboy stew
• Ground chicken soup