Cioppino Seafood Stew with Tomato Broth

Name: Cioppino Seafood Stew with Tomato Broth
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb clams, cleaned; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lb firm white fish fillets, cut into chunks; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 4 cups fish stock or broth; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp red pepper flakes; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Crusty bread (for serving)

Highlighted under: Hearty Food Recipes

Savor the rich flavors of the ocean with this hearty Cioppino Seafood Stew, brimming with fresh seafood and a robust tomato broth.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-06T17:17:05.112Z

This Cioppino Seafood Stew is a celebration of coastal flavors, combining clams, shrimp, and fish in a savory tomato broth. A dish with roots in San Francisco, it's perfect for warming up on a chilly evening.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful blend of fresh seafood and aromatic spices
Comforting and hearty, perfect for sharing with loved ones
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions

      

A Taste of the Sea

Cioppino is a traditional Italian-American dish that originated in San Francisco, known for its vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients. This seafood stew highlights the best of what the ocean has to offer, combining various types of seafood that not only provide a delightful taste but also a medley of textures. Each spoonful brings together the briny goodness of clams, the tender bite of fish, and the succulent sweetness of shrimp, creating a truly memorable dining experience.

What sets this Cioppino apart is the rich tomato broth that serves as the foundation for the dish. Made with crushed tomatoes, aromatic spices, and a splash of dry white wine, the broth is both savory and refreshing. It provides a perfect backdrop for the seafood, allowing each ingredient to shine while contributing to the overall depth of flavor. The combination of fresh herbs, such as parsley, adds a burst of brightness, making each serving not only delicious but visually appealing.

The Perfect Dish for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, Cioppino is the perfect dish to impress your guests or treat your family. Its hearty nature makes it a comforting choice during colder months, while its vibrant flavors can brighten up any gathering. The ease of preparation allows you to focus on enjoying the moment with your loved ones rather than spending hours in the kitchen.

Pair this seafood stew with a side of crusty bread, which is ideal for soaking up the flavorful broth. You can also complement your meal with a crisp salad or a glass of dry white wine to enhance the dining experience. This dish is versatile, making it suitable for both casual weeknight dinners and festive occasions, ensuring that it remains a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire.

Tips for the Best Cioppino

To elevate your Cioppino, consider using a variety of seafood based on what’s freshest and in season. Adding mussels or scallops can enhance the complexity of flavors and textures. Ensure that all seafood is sourced from reputable suppliers to guarantee freshness and sustainability. The quality of the ingredients is key to achieving a dish that is not only delicious but also environmentally friendly.

Don’t shy away from adjusting the spice levels to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder broth, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you enjoy heat, feel free to add more! Lastly, remember that the stew can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to develop even further. Simply reheat gently before serving for a quick and easy meal.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious Cioppino Seafood Stew.

Ingredients

1 lb clams, cleaned
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb firm white fish fillets, cut into chunks
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
4 cups fish stock or broth
1 cup dry white wine
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Crusty bread (for serving)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Cioppino Seafood Stew.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, fish stock, and white wine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and season with oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Cook the Seafood

Add the clams and fish to the pot, cover, and cook for 5 minutes. Once the clams begin to open, add the shrimp and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Cioppino Seafood Stew!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of brandy or some fresh herbs like basil or thyme.

Nutritional Benefits of Cioppino

Cioppino is not only a delicious seafood stew but also a nutritious option packed with essential nutrients. Seafood is an excellent source of high-quality protein and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. The variety of seafood in this dish contributes to a well-rounded meal, offering vitamins and minerals that support overall well-being.

Additionally, the inclusion of tomatoes provides a healthy dose of antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to reduced risk of certain chronic diseases. The use of fresh herbs and vegetables further enhances the nutritional profile, making Cioppino a wholesome choice that satisfies both the palate and the body.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Cioppino, you're in luck! This stew keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, allowing you to enjoy its rich flavors again. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid boiling, as this can toughen the seafood.

For longer storage, consider freezing Cioppino. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To freeze, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to eat it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above. The flavors will continue to meld and develop, making it just as delightful on the second serving!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different seafood?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite seafood such as mussels, squid, or scallops.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure that the fish stock and any additional ingredients are gluten-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Can I make this in advance?

While the stew is best fresh, you can prepare the base (broth and aromatics) in advance and add seafood just before serving.