Fishmongers Stew Recipes

FISHMONGER'S STEW

Steps:

• Soak the clams in cold water to remove grit and sand, then drain. Rinse and de-beard the mussels. Put the monkfish, scrod, squid and bay scallops (if using) in separate small bowls. Season the fish lightly with salt and pepper.
• Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions and leeks and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the tomato, thyme, bay leaf, saffron, garlic, paprika and red pepper flakes. Season generously with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, for another 5 minutes.
• Turn the heat to high, add the fish stock, chicken broth or water, and bring to a boil. Taste for salt and adjust to taste. Add the potatoes and reduce the heat so they simmer gently until firm-tender, about 10 minutes. (The stew may be prepared to this point up to 2 hours ahead.)
• To finish the stew, return the heat to a brisk simmer. Add the clams and cook till they open, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the mussels, monkfish and scrod and simmer until the mussels open, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the squid and scallops, if using, and cook 1 minute more. Turn off the heat, stir in the garlic-saffron sauce.

SPICY FISH STEW

Steps:

• In a 6-quart dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat until hot; add the garlic, onions, red chiles and green peppers.
• Saute about 5-7 minutes, until the onions are slightly transparent and the peppers are tender.
• Add the tomatoes, rice wine, clam juice, salt and pepper and bring to a boil; reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes.
• Add the fish pieces to the tomato mixture, toss to coat, cover and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or till fish flakes easily.
• Taste for seasoning, adding more salt if necessary and sprinkle with minced scallion greens.