Portuguese Seafood Stew is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines the best of fresh seafood with the bold flavors of chorizo, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs. Perfect for a comforting meal, this stew is both delicious and easy to prepare, making it a favorite in Portuguese cuisine.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 pound chorizo, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound scallops
• 1/2 pound clams, scrubbed
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Crusty bread, for serving (optional)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chorizo slices and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, white wine, chicken broth, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Return the chorizo to the pot and cook for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Add the clams to the pot, cover, and cook until they begin to open, about 5 minutes.
6. Gently stir in the shrimp and scallops, cooking until the shrimp turn pink and the scallops are opaque, about 3-5 minutes. Discard any unopened clams.
7. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
8. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping.

Nutritional Information

• Serving size: 1 bowl (estimated)
• Calories: Approx. 300 per serving
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg

The History and Tradition of Portuguese Seafood Stew

Portuguese Seafood Stew has deep roots in the culinary traditions of Portugal. As a maritime nation, Portugal has always placed seafood at the heart of its cuisine. The dish is believed to have originated in fishing communities, where fishermen would use their daily catch to create a nourishing and flavorful meal.

The inclusion of chorizo and paprika reflects the Spanish influence on Portuguese cuisine, while the use of fresh herbs like parsley adds a distinctly Mediterranean flair. Over time, this humble stew has evolved into a beloved dish, cherished not only for its taste but also for the sense of togetherness it fosters when shared among family and friends.

Why Portuguese Seafood Stew Stands Out

1. Diverse Flavors: The combination of smoky chorizo, sweet tomatoes, and briny seafood creates a harmonious balance of flavors that’s both comforting and complex.
2. Versatility: This stew can be adapted to include your favorite seafood or what’s locally available. Mussels, squid, or fish fillets are excellent additions.
3. Quick and Easy: Despite its sophisticated taste, Portuguese Seafood Stew is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it ideal for both novice and experienced cooks.
4. A Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Tips for Preparing the Perfect Stew

• Selecting Fresh Seafood: Use the freshest seafood you can find to ensure the best flavor. Look for firm, glossy shrimp, scallops, and clams with tightly closed shells.
• Balancing the Flavors: Chorizo adds a smoky depth, but you can adjust the spiciness by controlling the amount of paprika and red pepper flakes.
• Cooking Seafood Just Right: To avoid overcooking, add the seafood toward the end of the cooking process. This ensures the shrimp are tender and the scallops are perfectly opaque.
• Deglazing with White Wine: The dry white wine not only adds acidity to balance the rich flavors but also lifts the browned bits from the pot, enhancing the stew’s depth.

Pairing Suggestions

Portuguese Seafood Stew is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments:

1. Crusty Bread: A traditional choice for dipping into the flavorful broth, ensuring no drop goes to waste.
2. Rice: Serve the stew over steamed white or brown rice for a heartier meal.
3. Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the stew.
4. Portuguese Wine: Pair with a crisp Vinho Verde or a light red wine to complement the flavors of the dish.

Health Benefits of Portuguese Seafood Stew

1. Rich in Protein: The combination of shrimp, scallops, and clams provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
2. Packed with Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Seafood is an excellent source of omega-3s, which support heart and brain health.
3. Low in Carbohydrates: This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it suitable for various dietary preferences, including low-carb and keto diets.
4. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The stew is a great source of iron, selenium, and vitamin B12, all vital for energy production and immune support.
5. Antioxidant-Rich: The tomatoes, garlic, and parsley are loaded with antioxidants, which help combat inflammation and promote overall well-being.

Why This Dish is a Must-Try

Portuguese Seafood Stew captures the essence of coastal living and the joys of sharing a meal with loved ones. Its bold, hearty flavors make it an unforgettable dining experience, while its simplicity ensures that anyone can recreate it at home. Perfect for a comforting dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining, this stew brings the taste of Portugal to your table.

Whether you’re new to seafood or a seasoned aficionado, this recipe is an excellent way to explore the flavors and traditions of Portuguese cuisine. It’s a dish that’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection.

Conclusion

Portuguese Seafood Stew is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of Portugal’s rich culinary heritage. The smoky, savory, and slightly spicy broth perfectly complements the tender, briny seafood, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant. Easy to prepare yet impressive in presentation, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or special occasions.

By incorporating this recipe into your repertoire, you’re not only treating yourself to a delicious dish but also experiencing a taste of Portugal’s vibrant coastal cuisine. Pair it with crusty bread and a glass of wine, and enjoy the delightful journey this stew offers with every bite.