🇵🇹 Portuguese Fish Stew (Caldeirada de Peixe)
Enjoy the authentic taste of coastal Portugal with this Portuguese Fish Stew (Caldeirada de Peixe) — a hearty mix of fresh fish, tomatoes, potatoes, and herbs simmered in a flavorful broth. Perfect for seafood lovers and cozy dinners!
🐟 Ingredients
- 500g firm white fish (such as cod, haddock, or snapper), cut into chunks
- 250g shrimp or mussels (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 2 large tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup fish or vegetable stock
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
🍲 Instructions
-
Prepare the base:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant and slightly golden. -
Add vegetables:
Add bell peppers and tomatoes, then stir in both paprikas. Cook for 5 minutes until the mixture softens. -
Layer potatoes and fish:
Place a layer of potato slices, followed by fish pieces. Add salt, pepper, and bay leaves. -
Add liquid:
Pour in the wine and stock, then cover the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer. -
Cook slowly:
Let it cook for 25–30 minutes on low heat until potatoes are tender and fish is flaky.
(If adding shrimp or mussels, add them in the last 10 minutes.) -
Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.
🧂 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm rustic bread or Portuguese cornbread (broa) to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Add a side of green salad or steamed vegetables for a lighter meal.
- Pairs perfectly with a glass of chilled Vinho Verde (Portuguese white wine).
🧊 Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently over low heat to prevent overcooking the fish.
- Freeze: Can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the texture of the fish may soften slightly.
❓ FAQs
Q1: What kind of fish is best for Portuguese fish stew?
Firm white fish like cod, haddock, halibut, or snapper are ideal since they hold shape during cooking.
Q2: Can I make this stew without wine?
Yes, simply replace the wine with extra fish stock and a squeeze of lemon for acidity.
Q3: Is Caldeirada spicy?
Traditionally, it’s mildly spiced — but you can adjust by adding chili flakes or hot paprika.
Q4: Can I use frozen fish?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before adding to the stew to prevent excess water.
Q5: What makes Portuguese fish stew unique?
The layering technique and blend of paprika, olive oil, and fresh herbs create a distinct Mediterranean-Portuguese flavor.
🍽️ Similar Recipes
- Cataplana de Marisco Recipe – Portuguese seafood stew with clams and prawns.
- Arroz de Marisco Recipe – Flavorful Portuguese seafood rice.
- Portuguese Chicken Rice Recipe – Hearty chicken and rice with classic Portuguese flavors.
- Bifanas Recipe – Traditional Portuguese pork sandwiches.
- Portuguese Custard Tarts Recipe – Sweet dessert to end your meal perfectly.

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