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- Baja seafood stew ingredients
- Fresh shrimp in seafood stew
- Sea scallops for a savory dish
- Swordfish steaks in recipes
- White fish fillets (cod or tilapia)
- Diced tomatoes for flavor
- Finely chopped onions
- Sliced bell peppers
- Minced jalapeño pepper
- Lime juice for zest
- Cilantro for garnish
- Chipotle chili powder for heat
- Ground cumin for spice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable broth for body
- Olive oil for cooking
- Corn kernels (fresh or frozen) for texture
- Anaheim peppers for color
Steps
### Baja Seafood Stew: A Delicious and Flavorful Recipe
#### Introduction
Baja-style seafood stew is a delightful fusion of fresh, ocean-fresh ingredients seasoned with vibrant flavors that capture the essence of Mexican coastal cuisine. This recipe combines tender shrimp, succulent clams, and mild white fish in a zesty tomato broth to create a hearty yet light dish perfect for any season.
#### Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 large fresh clams, scrubbed clean
- 1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz/408g) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken or fish broth
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder (optional, for added heat)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
#### Steps
**Step 1: Preparing Ingredients**
Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Peel and devein the shrimp, scrub the clams clean under running water to remove any sand or grit, and cut the fish into bite-sized pieces.
**Step 2: Sautéing Vegetables**
In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
**Step 3: Adding Tomatoes and Broth**
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and chicken or fish broth into the pot. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce slightly for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
**Step 4: Incorporating Seafood**
Add the sliced red bell pepper, diced Roma tomatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
**Step 5: Cooking Shrimp and Clams**
Once the mixture has simmered for a few minutes, add the fish pieces first. Let them cook until they just turn opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the shrimp and clams. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and the clams have opened.
**Step 6: Final Adjustments**
Squeeze in the juice of one lime to finish off the stew with a bright citrus note. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
**Step 7: Serving and Garnishing**
Serve the Baja seafood stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of color and freshness. Serve alongside a side salad or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious broth.
#### Tips
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible to ensure the best flavor.
- Adjust spice levels based on personal preference; chili powder can be omitted if you prefer a milder dish.
- For a richer stew, consider adding a splash of heavy cream at the end before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Baja seafood stew and explore more recipes that celebrate the flavors of the sea!