Go Back
+ servings
Sicilian Fish Stew

Sicilian Fish Stew

Discover the rich flavors of Sicilian Fish Stew, a hearty seafood dish with fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flair. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ½ cup tomato paste
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cups fish stock
  • ½ cup sliced Kalamata olives
  • 2 tablespoons capers
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 cups cooked orzo
  • 900 g white fish fillets, cut into 5cm pieces
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • ½ cup olive oil (for herb oil)
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed
  • ½ cup finely chopped parsley
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped basil
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Crispy bread for serving

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Small saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board and knife

Method
 

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chopped onions and celery, stirring occasionally until they soften and turn golden, about 7–8 minutes.
  3. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute.
  4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute until it darkens slightly.
  5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, fish stock, olives, capers, bay leaf, and thyme.
  6. Season generously with salt and pepper, bring to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
  7. In a small saucepan, gently heat ½ cup of olive oil with the smashed garlic over low heat until golden and soft.
  8. Pour the fragrant oil over the chopped parsley and basil in a heatproof bowl, allowing the mixture to cool.
  9. Stir in the cooked orzo and fish pieces into the simmering broth, increasing heat to medium.
  10. Let the stew simmer for 5 more minutes or until the fish is opaque and flaky.
  11. Ladle the stew into bowls, drizzle with the herb oil, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan.
  12. Serve alongside crispy bread.

Nutrition

Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 40gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 6gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 12mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Use the freshest fish possible for the best flavor. Double the herb oil recipe as it's great on salads and grilled meats. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste, especially for kids. To store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. For a healthy alternative, skip the orzo and serve over cauliflower rice.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!