Fiš paprikaš, fish stew

Fiš Paprikaš: Spicy Fish Stew

Fiš Paprikaš is a traditional spicy fish stew hailing from the rich culinary landscape of the Balkans, particularly popular in Serbia and Croatia. This dish is known for its deep, harmonious flavors and the gentle heat of paprika, making it a comforting yet exhilarating meal.

Ingredients

🐟 2 lbs freshwater fish such as carp or catfish
🧅 2 large onions, finely chopped
🧄 4 cloves of garlic, minced
🌶️ 2 tablespoons sweet paprika, e.g., Pimentón de la Vera
🌶️ 1 teaspoon hot paprika or cayenne pepper
🍅 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes, e.g., Mutti Polpa
🌿 2 bay leaves
🧂 Salt
🫑 1 bell pepper, chopped
🍷 1 cup white wine, e.g., Chardonnay
🌿 Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
🌾 1 cup water
🥄 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, e.g., Bertolli Olive Oil

Instructions

1- Prepare the Fish:

Clean and cut the fish into fillets. Remove any bones if necessary. Set aside.

2- Sauté Vegetables:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, e.g., Le Creuset, heat the Bertolli Olive Oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper, cooking for an additional 3 minutes.

3- Add Flavors:

Sprinkle in the sweet paprika and hot paprika, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
Pour in the white wine and let it simmer until it's reduced by half.

4- Simmer the Stew:

Add the can of diced tomatoes, water, and bay leaves. Season with salt.
Once the mixture begins to boil, gently place the fish fillets into the stew. Ensure the fish is submerged in the broth.

5- Cook:

Lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the stew cook for about 20–30 minutes, or until the fish is tender and the flavors are well melded.

6- Finish and Serve:

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaves.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot, typically with crusty bread or a side of rice.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 300 kcal
Nutritional Info per serving: Proteins: 26g, Fats: 10g, Carbohydrates: 12g
Equipment: Large pot or Dutch oven, e.g., Le Creuset, chopping board, knife