Are you craving a comforting, flavorful, and healthy meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further! This crock pot fish stew recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a relaxing weekend dinner. Packed with fresh seafood, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, aromatic broth, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. It's one of those easy recipes that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but it's ready in a flash thanks to your trusty slow cooker! This is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups fish stock or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 pound firm white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or halibut), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 pound mussels, scrubbed and debearded
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Combine ingredients in the slow cooker: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, fish stock, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Cook the stew: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.
-
Add the seafood: About 30 minutes before serving, gently stir in the fish, mussels, and shrimp. Avoid overcooking the seafood; it should be opaque and cooked through but still tender.
-
Garnish and serve: Stir in the fresh parsley. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired. This delicious dish is perfect served with crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful broth.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Fish Stew:
- Use fresh, high-quality seafood: The flavor of your stew will be directly impacted by the freshness of your ingredients. Opt for sustainable seafood whenever possible.
- Don't overcook the fish: Overcooked fish will be dry and tough. Adding it towards the end of the cooking time ensures it remains flaky and moist.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers to your stew.
Variations:
- Spicy Fish Stew: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Creamy Fish Stew: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
- Mediterranean Fish Stew: Add chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a Mediterranean twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This crock pot fish stew recipe is a simple, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It's perfect for busy weeknights, and it's a great option for meal prepping. Enjoy!