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Zarzuela: photo of the dish
Illustrative photo: TeRe. B — CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Fish & seafood

Zarzuela

A fish and seafood stew in tomato sauce, flavoured with brandy and saffron, typical of the Catalan and Valencian coast. Its name means "operetta" and it describes a generous, festive dish served in a large casserole.

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Ingredients

Ingredients

Base

Spices & seasoning

Optional extras

On the side

Instructions

  1. In a large casserole, cook the finely chopped onion and garlic in olive oil for 8 minutes until soft.
  2. Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste and paprika, and let it reduce for 5 minutes.
  3. Pour in the brandy, flambé or reduce by half, then add the stock, bay leaf and saffron diluted in a spoonful of hot water.
  4. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes to develop the flavours.
  5. Add the hake and squid, then the clams. Cover and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, until the clams open.
  6. Add the prawns for the last 2 minutes, adjust the seasoning, then sprinkle with parsley and ground almonds before serving.

Variations and tips

Simpler version. Replace the squid and monkfish with more clams and prawns for a less expensive zarzuela.

More ideas

Original Ecomely recipe.