Classic San Francisco Cioppino Seafood Stew Recipe

Name: Classic San Francisco Cioppino Seafood Stew Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lb (450g) mussels, cleaned; 1 lb (450g) clams, cleaned; 1 lb (450g) fresh fish fillets (such as cod or halibut), cut into chunks; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 cups fish stock or broth; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Crusty bread (for serving)

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Creations

Experience the flavors of the sea with this delightful Classic San Francisco Cioppino Seafood Stew. A hearty dish brimming with fresh seafood, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, it's perfect for a cozy dinner.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2025-12-06T19:18:53.658Z

This Classic San Francisco Cioppino Seafood Stew is a tribute to the city's rich maritime history. With its roots in Italian-American culture, this dish combines an array of fresh seafood, simmered in a flavorful tomato broth. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, it's a warm embrace in a bowl.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A rich and hearty broth that captures the essence of the ocean
Versatile seafood options to satisfy every palate
Perfect for gatherings, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere

      

The Origin of Cioppino

Cioppino is a traditional Italian-American seafood stew that originated in San Francisco in the late 1800s. It was created by Italian fishermen who wanted to use their catch of the day in a wholesome, flavorful dish. The unique combination of fresh seafood, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic herbs reflects the rich culinary heritage of the city, making it a beloved staple in coastal cuisine.

Originally, cioppino was made with whatever seafood was available, which is why it varies from kitchen to kitchen. This recipe honors the original spirit of the dish by incorporating a variety of seafood, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences. Whether you opt for clams, mussels, shrimp, or a different fish, you'll capture that authentic taste of San Francisco.

Perfect Pairings

When serving your Classic San Francisco Cioppino Seafood Stew, consider pairing it with a crisp dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines complement the flavors of the seafood and enhance the overall dining experience. The acidity in the wine balances the richness of the broth beautifully, making for a delightful meal.

In addition to wine, crusty bread is a must-have for this dish. The bread not only serves as a vehicle for soaking up the delicious broth but also adds a satisfying texture to every bite. Consider a side salad with a light vinaigrette to refresh the palate and complete your meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store your cioppino in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even more enjoyable the next day. However, keep in mind that seafood can become tough when reheated, so it's best to reheat gently over low heat on the stove.

To reheat, avoid boiling the stew. Instead, warm it slowly, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also add a splash of fish stock or water to maintain the desired consistency, ensuring your cioppino remains delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious cioppino stew.

Seafood and Vegetables

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb (450g) mussels, cleaned
1 lb (450g) clams, cleaned
1 lb (450g) fresh fish fillets (such as cod or halibut), cut into chunks
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cups fish stock or broth
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Crusty bread (for serving)

Make sure everything is fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your cioppino seafood stew.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add the Liquids

Pour in the white wine, allowing it to reduce for 2-3 minutes. Then, add the crushed tomatoes, fish stock, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Cook the Seafood

Add the fish fillets to the pot, followed by the mussels and clams. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the mussels and clams open. Finally, add the shrimp and cook for an additional 5 minutes until they turn pink.

Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious cioppino stew!

Tips for Choosing Seafood

When selecting seafood for your cioppino, freshness is key. Visit a local fish market or grocery store known for high-quality seafood to ensure you're getting the best ingredients. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a mild ocean scent, and choose clams and mussels that are tightly closed or close when tapped, indicating freshness.

For the fish, opt for firm white fish like cod or halibut, which hold up well in the stew. Always ask your fishmonger for recommendations based on what's in season and local to your area, ensuring the best flavor and quality for your dish.

Customizing Your Cioppino

One of the joys of making cioppino is its versatility. Feel free to customize the seafood based on your preferences or what you have on hand. You can add squid, scallops, or even chunks of lobster for a luxurious twist. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different types of seafood have varying cooking requirements.

You can also adjust the level of spice in your cioppino by adding red pepper flakes for heat or extra herbs like basil and parsley for freshness. Experimenting with different flavors will allow you to create a dish that perfectly suits your taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?

Yes, frozen seafood can be used, but ensure it is fully thawed and drained before adding to the stew.

→ What type of bread is best to serve with cioppino?

Crusty sourdough or baguette works wonderfully for soaking up the flavorful broth.

→ Can I make cioppino ahead of time?

While cioppino is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the broth and seafood separately and combine them just before serving.

→ What other seafood can I add to cioppino?

Feel free to include scallops, squid, or even lobster for an extravagant touch!