Rondón (Caribbean Seafood and Coconut Stew)

Experience the vibrant flavors of Caribbean cuisine with Rondón, a hearty stew that combines fresh seafood, root vegetables, and coconut milk. This comforting dish, popular in Panama, Costa Rica, and Colombia, offers a rich, tropical taste that brings warmth and tradition to your table.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fish fillets (snapper, grouper, or tilapia), cut into chunks
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 4 cups water or seafood stock
• 2 medium yams, peeled and cubed
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 green plantain, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 lb yautía (taro) or dasheen, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 teaspoons achiote (annatto) or paprika
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional, whole for mild heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or coconut oil
• 1 lime, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base

   Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until fragrant. Add tomatoes, achiote, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

2. Add Liquids and Vegetables

   Pour in coconut milk and water or seafood stock. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil. Add yams, potatoes, plantain, and yautía. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20–25 minutes until vegetables are tender.

3. Add Seafood

   Gently add fish chunks and shrimp to the pot. Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until seafood is cooked through and tender.

4. Finish and Season

   Remove the scotch bonnet pepper if used. Stir in chopped cilantro and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

5. Serve

   Ladle Rondón into bowls and serve hot. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for a bright, tangy finish.

Serving

Rondón pairs beautifully with white rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful coconut broth. Enjoy the rich, tropical essence of this traditional Caribbean stew with family and friends.