Craving a comforting yet healthy meal that's quick to prepare? Look no further! This cod fish stew is a perfect example of delicious and easy recipes that are packed with flavor and nutrients. It's a fantastic option for a quick dinner, perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a weekend gathering. This homemade cooking masterpiece is sure to become a family favorite. Let's dive into this best recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups fish broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 pound cod fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup cooked small potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, bell pepper, carrots, and celery and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Build the stew: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), fish broth, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Add the cod: Gently stir in the cod fillets. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking the cod will make it dry, so keep a close eye on it!
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Incorporate potatoes and serve: Stir in the cooked potatoes during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Cod Fish Stew:
- Fresh herbs are best: If you have fresh oregano and thyme on hand, use them instead of dried. The flavor will be significantly brighter.
- Don't overcook the cod: Cod cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it. It should be opaque and flake easily.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder stew, omit them altogether.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the stew, such as zucchini, spinach, or green beans. Add them along with the carrots and celery.
Variations:
- Seafood Stew: Add other types of seafood, such as shrimp, mussels, or clams, along with the cod. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Creamy Cod Stew: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last minute of cooking for a richer, creamier stew.
- Spicy Cod Stew: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and balanced meal, rich in protein and essential nutrients. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a serving of this cod fish stew typically contains around 250-300 calories, with a moderate amount of protein and healthy fats. It's a great source of vitamins and minerals.
This cod fish stew recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals that are both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy this quick dinner idea and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills! It's one of those best recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again.