Italian Cioppino / Fisherman's Stew

Step 1

Heat the oil in a very large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, green pepper, celery, salt and pepper and saute until the onion is translucent and the pepper is soft, about 10 minutes. Add the garlic and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, and saute 2 minutes.

Step 2

Stir in the tomato paste and cook about 5 minutes. Add tomatoes with their juices, wine, fish stock, and bay leaf, and a pinch more salt and pepper. Bring to a low boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover partially with a lid.  Simmer until liquid has reduced and thickened slightly, about 30 minutes. Note – this is when all the flavors develop, don’t rush this part and if you have time to wait 45 minutes, all the better.

Step 3

Add the clams and mussels to the cooking liquid. Cover and cook until the clams and mussels begin to open, about 5 minutes. (Note: clams take a bit longer than the muscles to open). Next, add the shrimp, scallops, and fish. Simmer gently until all seafood is cooked through, and the clams are completely open, discard any clams and mussels that do not open.

Step 4

Season the soup, to taste, with more salt, pepper and red pepper flakes.

Step 5

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with bread and/or spaghetti.