4tbspfinely chopped vibrant flat-leaf parsley leavesplus extra for garnish
120ml½ cup of robust extra virgin olive oil
4cans400 g each of tangy chopped tomatoes
Grilled bread for serving
16succulent scallopsfree of roe
600gof skinlessbone-free ling or barramundi fillet, cut into 3-cm pieces
24raw prawnsshells removed, intestinal tract discarded, tails left intact, with reserved shells
16musselsmeticulously scrubbed and de-bearded
16clamsthoroughly rinsed
200mlof crisp dry white wine
1chopped carrot
4tbspof robust extra virgin olive oil
4-6chopped garlic cloves
Saltto enhance flavors
1chopped celery stick
6-8roughly chopped spring onions
A small piece of capsicum
Instructions
Heat 4 tablespoons of robust extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped carrots, celery, spring onions, garlic cloves, and a small piece of capsicum. Sauté the vegetables until they soften and release their aromas.
Pour in the crisp dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Let the wine simmer until it reduces slightly.
Pour enough water to cover the vegetables by about an inch or two. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes. Season with salt to enhance the flavors. Strain the liquid to get a flavorful fish stock. Set aside.
In a separate large pot or Dutch oven, heat 4 tablespoons of robust extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic cloves and sauté until they're fragrant, but not browned.
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and finely chopped flat-leaf parsley. Let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Once the tomato mixture has cooked down a bit, pour in the prepared fish stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Carefully add the prepared pieces of ling or barramundi fillet, raw prawns, scallops, mussels, and clams into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and let the seafood cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the shellfish have opened and the fish is cooked through.
Discard any unopened shells. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle extra chopped parsley over the stew.
Ladle the Zuppetta into bowls and serve hot with grilled bread on the side.
Heat the grill to medium-high heat.
Brush slices of bread with olive oil and grill for 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly toasted and grill marks appear.Enjoy your flavorful Zuppetta with the delightful array of seafood and the rich, aromatic broth!
Notes
Make sure to use a large, deep skillet when cooking this dish, as the vegetables and broth will need room to simmer.
You can also add other vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini, to the dish.
If you prefer a thicker broth, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the broth and stir until it is dissolved.
Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to suit your own tastes.
This dish can also be made in a slow cooker. Simply sauté the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the broth and white wine. Cook on low for 4-5 hours.