Top 5 Fish Stew Recipes

Fish stew is one of the most comforting and flavorful dishes you can make, bringing together tender seafood, rich broths, vegetables, herbs, and spices. Whether you love Mediterranean flavors, coconut-based broths, or spicy tomato gravies, fish stew adapts beautifully to many cuisines. These top five recipes highlight simple, hearty, and deeply satisfying meals you can make at home with minimal effort. Each stew is wholesome, rich in protein, and perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or serving guests.

1. Mediterranean Tomato Fish Stew

This stew is made using firm white fish such as cod or snapper, along with olive oil, onions, garlic, crushed tomatoes, vegetable or fish broth, olives, capers, dried oregano, chili flakes, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. To prepare it, heat olive oil in a pot and sauté chopped onions until soft, then add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Stir in tomatoes, broth, olives, capers, and seasonings, and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes so the flavors develop. Gently add the fish pieces and simmer for another 5–7 minutes until the fish is tender and flaky. Finish with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil, and serve hot with crusty bread.

2. Brazilian Moqueca (Coconut Fish Stew)

This comforting stew uses white fish, coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, paprika, salt, and a touch of chili for warmth. Begin by layering sliced onions, peppers, tomatoes, and garlic in a pot, then place seasoned fish pieces on top. Pour in coconut milk and add spices, allowing everything to simmer gently over low heat. The fish cooks in the fragrant coconut broth within 10 minutes. Once cooked, finish with fresh cilantro and lime juice. Serve over steamed rice to enjoy the rich, tropical flavors.

3. New England Fish Chowder

This creamy chowder includes white fish, potatoes, onions, celery, butter, milk or cream, fish stock, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Start by melting butter in a pot and sautéing onions and celery until soft. Add diced potatoes, bay leaf, and stock, then simmer until the potatoes are tender. Stir in milk or cream and gently add chunks of fish. Cook just until the fish flakes easily, then season to taste. The result is a warm, comforting chowder perfect for cold days.

4. Spicy African Fish Stew

This bold stew features firm fish, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, garlic, ginger, chili peppers, paprika, thyme, vegetable oil, and broth. Heat oil in a pot and sauté onions, peppers, garlic, and ginger until aromatic. Add tomatoes and spices, allowing the mixture to cook down into a thick, flavorful base. Pour in broth and simmer briefly before adding the fish. Cook gently until the fish is tender and infused with spice. Serve hot with rice or bread, adjusting the spice level as desired.

5. Italian Cioppino (Seafood Stew)

This rustic stew uses white fish, olive oil, onions, garlic, crushed tomatoes, white wine, fish stock, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add tomatoes, wine, herbs, and stock, letting the broth simmer to develop deep flavor. Gently place the fish into the simmering sauce and cook until just done. Finish with fresh herbs and serve with sourdough or garlic bread for a satisfying Italian-inspired meal.

FAQs

What type of fish is best for stew?

Firm white fish such as cod, halibut, snapper, tilapia, pollock, haddock, or grouper works best because it holds its shape during simmering.

Can I use frozen fish for stew?

Yes. Thaw the fish completely and pat it dry before adding it to the stew to prevent excess water.

How long should fish cook in stew?

Fish cooks quickly. Add it during the last 5–10 minutes of cooking to keep it tender and prevent overcooking.

Can I add other seafood to these stews?

Absolutely. Shrimp, mussels, clams, and scallops can be added to enhance flavor and texture.

How do I thicken fish stew?

You can simmer it longer, add a little tomato paste, mash some of the potatoes, or stir in a small amount of cream or coconut milk depending on the recipe.