Bouillabaisse Cioppino

Name: Bouillabaisse Cioppino
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lb mussels, cleaned; 1 lb clams, cleaned; 1 lb white fish fillets, cut into chunks; 1 cup fish stock; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 3 cups water; 1 large onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon saffron threads; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for sautéing; Fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges

Highlighted under: Taste the Globe

Experience the rich flavors of the sea with this Bouillabaisse Cioppino, a delightful fusion of French and Italian seafood stew that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-06T18:54:53.671Z

Bouillabaisse Cioppino is a celebration of the ocean's bounty, blending traditional French bouillabaisse with Italian cioppino flavors. This hearty stew features a variety of fresh seafood, aromatic herbs, and a rich tomato broth, making it a perfect dish for special occasions or a comforting family dinner.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic blend of herbs and spices that tantalize the senses
Fresh seafood that brings the taste of the ocean right to your table
Perfect for sharing with family and friends on a cozy night in

      

The Essence of Bouillabaisse Cioppino

Bouillabaisse Cioppino is a culinary masterpiece that showcases the best of both French and Italian seafood traditions. This stew is not just a meal; it's an experience, combining an aromatic broth with a vibrant array of seafood. Originating from the coastal regions of France and Italy, this dish captures the essence of the Mediterranean, promising a delightful taste journey with every bite.

The dish’s name reflects its dual heritage: 'Bouillabaisse' refers to the traditional French fish stew, while 'Cioppino' nods to the Italian-American variation that highlights the use of fresh, local seafood. The combination of these two styles results in a rich, flavorful broth infused with aromatic herbs and spices, making it a beloved choice for seafood lovers everywhere.

Perfect for Gatherings

One of the standout features of Bouillabaisse Cioppino is its versatility as a communal dish. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this hearty stew invites everyone to share in its warmth and flavors. Serve it with crusty bread alongside a crisp salad for a complete meal that brings people together.

The vibrant colors and enticing aromas of the dish create an inviting atmosphere, making it perfect for cozy nights in. Imagine the laughter and conversations flowing as you ladle this delicious stew into bowls, creating a memorable dining experience that your loved ones will cherish.

Tips for the Best Bouillabaisse Cioppino

To elevate your Bouillabaisse Cioppino, consider using a variety of seafood to enhance the flavors of the dish. Fresh fish, shrimp, mussels, and clams work harmoniously together, but feel free to add your favorites. The key is to ensure that all seafood is fresh to achieve the best taste and texture.

Don’t skimp on the aromatics! The combination of onion, garlic, and bell pepper forms the flavor base of your stew. Sauté them until they are perfectly softened to release their natural sweetness. Additionally, adjusting the seasoning at the end allows you to perfect the balance of flavors to suit your palate.

Ingredients

Seafood and Broth

1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb mussels, cleaned
1 lb clams, cleaned
1 lb white fish fillets, cut into chunks
1 cup fish stock
1 cup dry white wine
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
3 cups water

Aromatics and Seasoning

1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon saffron threads
2 teaspoons dried thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for sautéing

Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add the Liquids

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, fish stock, white wine, and water. Bring to a simmer.

Season and Simmer

Add saffron, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes to develop flavors.

Cook the Seafood

Add the white fish, shrimp, mussels, and clams to the pot. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, until the seafood is cooked through and the mussels and clams open.

Serve

Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning if necessary, and ladle into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges before serving.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Storage and Reheating

Bouillabaisse Cioppino is a dish that can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests. After cooking, allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop to preserve the delicate texture of the seafood. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the seafood to become tough. Adding a splash of water or fish stock can help restore the stew’s original consistency.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the rich flavors of Bouillabaisse Cioppino, consider pairing it with a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines enhance the seafood without overpowering it, creating a harmonious dining experience. Alternatively, a light, refreshing rosé can also be a delightful match.

For a more casual approach, serve the stew with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will balance the richness of the broth and seafood, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, frozen seafood works well; just ensure it's fully thawed before cooking.

→ What type of fish is best for cioppino?

Firm white fish like cod or halibut is ideal, but you can use your favorite types.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make it spicy?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes to the broth for an extra kick.