Bouillabaisse (French Fish Stew)

Dive into the coastal flavors of Provence with Bouillabaisse, a traditional French seafood stew that combines a medley of fresh fish, shellfish, and aromatic herbs in a rich saffron-infused broth. Originally created by fishermen in Marseille, this dish is both rustic and refined, making it perfect for a festive dinner or an elegant centerpiece for a gathering.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 leeks, white parts only, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 pinch saffron threads
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 6 cups fish stock (or water with fish bouillon)
• 1 cup dry white wine
• Salt and pepper to taste

Seafood Selection (use a mix of 4–5 types):

• 1 lb firm white fish (such as cod, halibut, or monkfish), cut into chunks
• 12 mussels, cleaned
• 12 clams, scrubbed
• 8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 small lobster or crab (optional, for luxury)

For Serving:

• Crusty French bread
• Rouille sauce (garlic, chili, and olive oil spread)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base

   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, leeks, and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.

   Stir in tomatoes, fennel seeds, bay leaf, thyme, saffron, and orange zest. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

2. Simmer the Broth

   Add fish stock and white wine. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20–25 minutes.

3. Cook the Seafood

   Add firm white fish first and simmer for 5 minutes. Then add mussels, clams, shrimp, and lobster (if using). Cover and cook just until the shellfish open and shrimp turn pink (about 5–7 minutes). Discard any unopened shells.

4. Serve

   Ladle the stew into warm bowls. Serve with toasted French bread spread with rouille sauce for a traditional touch.

Serving

Bouillabaisse is best enjoyed family-style, with guests dipping crusty bread into the fragrant broth. Pair it with a chilled glass of dry white wine or rosé for a truly Provençal experience.

Bring the flavors of the French Riviera to your table with Bouillabaisse - a luxurious yet humble dish that celebrates the bounty of the sea. Perfect for sharing, it’s an unforgettable taste of coastal France.