The beauty of cacciucco lies in its simplicity and versatility – it can be made with a variety of seafood, from squid to mussels to shrimp. The key ingredient, however, is the fish stock, which is made by simmering fish bones, heads, and tails with vegetables and aromatics. This creates a rich, flavorful base for the stew that can be adjusted to suit your tastes.
Here is a simple recipe for cacciucco that is sure to impress:
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed seafood (such as squid, shrimp, mussels, and clams)
– 4 cups fish stock
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped carrot
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned tomatoes, crushed
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper
– Sliced bread, toasted and rubbed with garlic
– Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrot and sauté for a few minutes until softened.
2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute or so, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the fish stock, canned tomatoes, and red wine, and stir to combine.
4. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Add the seafood to the pot and cook for another 10 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through.
7. Serve in bowls with the toasted bread on the side. Drizzle with olive oil and enjoy!
This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on how much seafood you use. You can easily adjust the amounts of each ingredient to suit your preferences – for example, if you prefer a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes.
Cacciucco is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy dinner with friends or family. It can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a great option for entertaining. Serve it with a crisp white wine and enjoy the flavors of Tuscany in your own home. Buon appetito!