Portuguese Seafood Stew, also known as “Caldeirada de Peixe,” is a flavorful and aromatic dish loaded with fresh seafood, chorizo, and a tomato-based broth. This hearty stew is a celebration of coastal cuisine, offering a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors. It’s a great option for dinner parties or a comforting family meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• For the Stew:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 ounces chorizo, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 ½ cups crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup chicken broth (or seafood stock)
  • 1 pound littleneck clams, scrubbed
  • ½ pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • ½ pound sea scallops
  • ½ cup dry white wine
• For Serving and Garnish:
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon wedges
  • Crusty bread

Directions

1. Prepare the Base:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chorizo and cook until browned, about 2–3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in smoked paprika and red pepper flakes.
3. Simmer the Broth:
   • Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and white wine to the pot. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes to develop flavors.
4. Add Seafood:
   • Return chorizo to the pot. Add clams, shrimp, and scallops. Cover and cook until clams open and shrimp turn pink, about 5–7 minutes. Discard any clams that do not open.
5. Serve:
   • Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges and crusty bread for dipping.

Nutrients

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (out of 4 servings)
• Calories: 340 kcal
• Nutritional Breakdown:
  • Protein: 34g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 180mg
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g

This Portuguese Seafood Stew is a one-pot masterpiece that highlights the flavors of fresh seafood and the smoky richness of chorizo. Perfect for any season, this dish is both impressive and comforting, making it a must-try for seafood lovers!

Why Portuguese Seafood Stew Is a Culinary Treasure

Portuguese Seafood Stew, or Caldeirada de Peixe, is a beloved dish that embodies the heart and soul of coastal Portuguese cuisine. This dish is a harmonious blend of the ocean’s bounty, smoky chorizo, and a rich tomato-based broth, creating a meal that’s both rustic and elegant. Its layers of flavor and comforting nature make it a go-to for dinner parties, family gatherings, or a weeknight indulgence.

The stew’s beauty lies in its simplicity and ability to showcase fresh, high-quality ingredients. From the briny clams to the tender shrimp and scallops, every bite is a celebration of the sea. When paired with a crusty loaf of bread or a glass of dry white wine, this dish transforms into a complete sensory experience.

The Rich History of Caldeirada de Peixe

Caldeirada de Peixe is deeply rooted in Portuguese culinary traditions, drawing inspiration from the country’s long coastline and fishing heritage. Fishermen originally prepared this dish aboard their boats, using whatever seafood they had on hand along with simple ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and olive oil. Over time, the recipe evolved to include spices and chorizo, reflecting Portugal’s global connections and love for bold flavors.

Today, this dish is a staple in Portuguese households and restaurants, often varying slightly from region to region. Despite these variations, the essence of the stew remains the same—a comforting, flavorful meal that highlights the best of land and sea.

What Makes Portuguese Seafood Stew Special

This stew stands out for its bold flavors, wholesome ingredients, and hearty texture. Here are the elements that make it truly unique:

1. Fresh Seafood: The combination of clams, shrimp, and scallops creates a medley of textures and flavors. The seafood absorbs the smoky, spiced broth, resulting in a deeply satisfying dish.
2. Smoky Chorizo: Chorizo adds a savory, smoky depth to the stew, balancing the briny seafood with its rich, spicy notes.
3. Tomato-Based Broth: Crushed tomatoes and white wine form a flavorful base, infused with garlic, onions, and smoked paprika for complexity.
4. Versatile and Customizable: While this recipe includes specific seafood, it’s easily adaptable. You can use cod, mussels, or even squid, depending on your preferences or what’s available.

This combination of fresh and pantry staples makes Portuguese Seafood Stew a dish that’s both luxurious and accessible.

A Nutritious and Balanced Meal

In addition to being delicious, Portuguese Seafood Stew is packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. Here’s why this dish is as healthy as it is flavorful:

1. High in Protein: With 34 grams of protein per serving, this stew supports muscle repair and keeps you feeling full and energized.
2. Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: The seafood provides essential omega-3s, which promote heart health and brain function.
3. Low in Carbs: At only 8 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this dish is suitable for low-carb or keto diets.
4. Packed with Antioxidants: Tomatoes, garlic, and smoked paprika are rich in antioxidants, which combat inflammation and support overall health.
5. Vitamin Boost: Clams and shrimp are excellent sources of B vitamins, iron, and zinc, while fresh parsley adds a dose of vitamin C.

This balance of nutrients makes Portuguese Seafood Stew a guilt-free indulgence that’s perfect for those seeking a healthy, satisfying meal.

Customizing Your Portuguese Seafood Stew

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences, dietary needs, or available ingredients. Here are some ideas for customizing the stew:

1. Switch Up the Seafood: Use mussels, squid, or firm white fish like cod or haddock to create your preferred combination.
2. Add Vegetables: Include potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
3. Make It Spicier: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
4. Thicken the Broth: Stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste or a handful of breadcrumbs for a heartier consistency.
5. Go Gluten-Free: Replace the crusty bread with gluten-free bread or serve the stew over rice.

These customizations allow you to create a version of Portuguese Seafood Stew that’s uniquely yours.

Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Meal

Portuguese Seafood Stew is versatile enough to be served as a standalone dish or part of a larger spread. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your meal:

1. With Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
2. Over Rice: Serve the stew over steamed white or brown rice to make it even more filling.
3. With a Side Salad: Pair with a light, citrusy salad featuring arugula, fennel, and orange segments for a refreshing contrast.
4. Wine Pairing: A crisp, dry white wine like Vinho Verde or Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish’s flavors beautifully.
5. Dessert Finish: End the meal with a traditional Portuguese dessert, such as pastel de nata (custard tarts) or arroz doce (sweet rice pudding).

These pairings ensure a complete dining experience that highlights the best of Portuguese cuisine.

Tips for Making Perfect Portuguese Seafood Stew

While this recipe is straightforward, a few tips can help ensure your stew turns out flawlessly every time:

1. Use Fresh Seafood: Fresh, high-quality seafood is key to the dish’s flavor. If fresh isn’t available, frozen works well too—just thaw it properly before cooking.
2. Brown the Chorizo: Searing the chorizo first enhances its flavor and creates a flavorful base for the stew.
3. Don’t Overcook the Seafood: Add the seafood toward the end of cooking and watch closely to avoid overcooking, which can result in a rubbery texture.
4. Deglaze the Pot: Use white wine to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot, adding depth to the broth.
5. Serve Immediately: This stew is best enjoyed fresh, as reheating can overcook the seafood.

By following these tips, you’ll achieve a restaurant-quality stew every time.

Why Portuguese Seafood Stew Is a Crowd Favorite

Portuguese Seafood Stew is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and aromatic broth make it a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you’re introducing friends and family to Portuguese cuisine or treating yourself to a comforting bowl of stew, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

Conclusion: A Taste of Portugal in Every Bite

Portuguese Seafood Stew (Caldeirada de Peixe) is a celebration of Portugal’s rich culinary heritage, bringing the flavors of the sea and the warmth of traditional cooking to your table. With its smoky chorizo, fresh seafood, and aromatic tomato-based broth, this dish is a true masterpiece that’s both comforting and impressive.