Rustic Fisherman’s Seafood Soup

For the Seafood:

• 1 pound white fish fillets (such as cod or halibut), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound mussels or clams, cleaned
• 1/2 pound squid, cleaned and sliced into rings (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Kitchen Equipment:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Knife and cutting board
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stirring spoon

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Directions:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Aromatics: Add the diced onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the garlic and bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

1. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the canned tomatoes, fish stock or seafood broth, and white wine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
2. Season: Add the dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Add the Seafood

1. Incorporate Seafood: Gently add the white fish, shrimp, mussels (or clams), and squid (if using) to the pot.
2. Cook: Simmer the soup for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and the mussels or clams have opened. Discard any unopened shellfish.

Step 4: Serve

1. Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Remove the bay leaf.
2. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright finish.

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Tips and Tricks:

1. Seafood Selection: Feel free to mix and match seafood based on what you have available. Other great options include scallops, crab, or even canned fish like tuna or salmon.
2. Broth Options: For a richer flavor, consider using homemade fish stock or adding a splash of seafood seasoning to your broth.
3. Vegetable Variations: You can add additional vegetables such as potatoes, zucchini, or corn for added texture and flavor.
4. Serving Suggestions: Serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

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Storing Leftovers:

Leftover Rustic Fisherman’s Seafood Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra broth or water if needed. Note that seafood can become tough when reheated, so it’s best to consume the soup fresh.

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