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Shrimp Fish Stew

Section: Comforting Soups and Hearty Stews

This satisfying shrimp and fish stew brings together the bold flavors of cod, shrimp, tomatoes, onion and garlic in a rich, savory broth. Inspired by cioppino, this one-pot meal is quick to prepare and full of heart-healthy omega-3s and lean protein. A splash of white wine adds depth, while oregano rounds out the flavor. Ideal with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, it’s a wholesome seafood dish perfect for any night of the week. Customize with your favorite firm white fish or add clams and mussels for a more robust version.

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Published By Ioana
Updated on Tue, 05 Aug 2025 13:07:55 GMT
A bowl of shrimp and fish stew. Bookmark
A bowl of shrimp and fish stew. | ioanacooks.com

This shrimp and fish stew brings cozy comfort to the table with tender seafood simmered in a savory tomato broth. Inspired by the Italian-American cioppino, it’s packed with nourishing ingredients and layered flavor in every spoonful.

I first made this after a coastal road trip and the fresh seafood memories came flooding back with every bite. It’s been a regular favorite ever since.

Ingredients

  • Cod or sea bass fillets: firm texture helps the fish hold together while cooking
  • Shrimp: fast cooking and rich in omega 3s use peeled and deveined for convenience
  • Extra virgin olive oil: adds richness and helps build flavor at the base
  • Onion: brings aromatic depth and sweetness
  • Celery: subtle crunch and balances the tomato base
  • Garlic: boosts the stew’s savory backbone
  • Reduced sodium chicken broth: mild yet savory and keeps sodium in check
  • Dry white wine: adds brightness use broth if you prefer no alcohol
  • Diced tomatoes: bring acidity and antioxidants
  • Tomato sauce: thickens and rounds out the broth
  • Dried oregano: earthy herb that balances the seafood
  • Salt and black pepper: season to taste with a light hand
  • Fresh parsley: adds fresh green color and brightness at the end

Step-by-Step Instructions

A close up of a shrimp and fish stew. Bookmark
A close up of a shrimp and fish stew. | ioanacooks.com
Prep the Seafood:
Cut the cod or sea bass into bite size pieces about one and a half inches. Slice shrimp lengthwise so they cook quickly and are easier to eat. Refrigerate both until ready to use.
Sauté the Aromatics:
Warm the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion celery and garlic. Stir occasionally and cook for about five minutes until vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Build the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and white wine. Bring to a boil then reduce to a gentle simmer. Let the liquid simmer uncovered for five minutes to meld the base flavors.
Add Tomatoes and Seasoning:
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes tomato sauce oregano salt and black pepper. Increase heat to bring mixture back to a boil. Then reduce to a simmer cover and cook for another five minutes to deepen the flavor.
Simmer the Seafood:
Carefully add the cod and shrimp to the simmering broth. Bring to a boil again then lower the heat to very low. Cover and cook gently for three to five minutes just until the fish flakes easily and shrimp are opaque.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley just before serving. Serve hot with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the seafood. It can also be frozen for up to two months but eat soon after thawing for best texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use mahi mahi halibut or even scallops in place of cod. Don’t have white wine Use more chicken broth. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme work if parsley is not on hand.

A close up of a bowl of shrimp and fish stew. Bookmark
A close up of a bowl of shrimp and fish stew. | ioanacooks.com

Serving Suggestions

Pair this stew with crusty whole grain bread or a light salad with vinaigrette. It’s also great served over brown rice or couscous for a heartier meal.

Cultural Context

Cioppino originated with Italian immigrants in San Francisco who combined fresh catch with pantry staples to create deeply flavorful stews. This version draws on that tradition with a few modern twists.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, firm white fish like mahi-mahi, sea bass or halibut are great alternatives to cod. Just ensure the fish is skinless and cut evenly for even cooking.

→ What vegetables work well in this stew?

Chopped onion and celery are classic, but you can also use leeks, fennel, potatoes or sweet peppers for added texture and flavor.

→ Is there a substitute for white wine?

Absolutely. Use additional low-sodium chicken broth in place of white wine if you prefer to cook without alcohol.

→ How can I tell when the seafood is cooked?

The shrimp will turn pink and opaque, while the fish will flake easily with a fork when fully cooked. This takes just a few minutes of simmering.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

Crusty bread is ideal for soaking up the broth. A side salad or steamed vegetables also pair well for a balanced meal.

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, the flavors deepen after resting. Refrigerate and gently reheat before serving, but avoid overcooking the seafood again.

Shrimp Fish Stew

A hearty shrimp and fish dish simmered in savory tomato broth with herbs and vegetables.

Time Needed to Prep
15 minutes
Cooking Duration
15 minutes
Overall Time
30 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Soups & Stews

Preparation Difficulty: Medium Difficulty

Type of Cuisine: Italian-American

Number of Portions: 4 How Many It Serves (4 servings)

Dietary Preferences: Low-Carb Friendly, No Gluten, Dairy-Free Suitable

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Seafood

Ingredient 01 8 ounces skinless cod or sea bass fillets, cut into 1½-inch pieces
Ingredient 02 6 ounces raw shrimp (31-40 per pound), peeled, deveined, halved lengthwise

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

Ingredient 03 ⅓ cup chopped onion
Ingredient 04 2 stalks celery, sliced
Ingredient 05 ½ teaspoon minced garlic

→ Liquid & Base

Ingredient 06 1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
Ingredient 07 ¼ cup dry white wine or additional reduced-sodium chicken broth
Ingredient 08 1 (14.5 ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes, drained
Ingredient 09 1 (8 ounce) can no-salt-added tomato sauce

→ Seasoning & Garnish

Ingredient 10 1 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
Ingredient 11 ¼ teaspoon salt
Ingredient 12 ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
Ingredient 13 1 tablespoon snipped fresh parsley

→ Cooking Oil

Ingredient 14 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Cut cod or sea bass into uniform 1½-inch pieces. Halve the shrimp lengthwise. Refrigerate until use.

Step 02

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion, sliced celery, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 03

Stir in chicken broth and wine. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 04

Stir in drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Return to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 05

Gently stir in cod and shrimp. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer until shrimp are opaque and fish flakes easily, about 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 06

Sprinkle with snipped parsley just before serving.

Extra Tips

  1. Use firm white fish like cod, sea bass, mahi-mahi, or halibut to maintain texture during cooking.
  2. Avoid overcooking seafood to prevent toughness and disintegration.
  3. Dry white wine adds depth, but broth can be used as an alcohol-free substitute.
  4. Shrimp turn pink and fish become flaky and opaque when fully cooked.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large saucepan

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains shellfish
  • May contain fish allergens

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 260
  • Total Fat: 6 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 10 grams
  • Protein Amount: 38 grams