Bacalao Fish Stew

Preparation

1. Heat oil in a large high-sided skillet or Dutch oven over medium high heat. Add the onion, sprinkle with salt and cook for a minute, stirring until the onion starts to soften. Turn the heat down to medium low and sweat, stirring occasionally, until softened for, about 5 to 8 minutes.

2. Turn the flame up to medium-high and add garlic and poblano pepper. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add the tomatoes. Cook stirring for 3 minutes. Add the olives, capers and oregano. Mix well. Lay the cilantro sprigs on top, cover and turn the flame down to low. Simmer for 20 minutes. If the mixture seems dry, add up to ½ cup of water, 1 tablespoon at a time. Taste stew for salt. At this point, you can set the stew aside until you are ready to add the fish.

3. Add the fish chunks and mix them into the stew. Cook until the fish is opaque and just flakes with a fork; it should take no more than 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and let the soup sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This will blend the flavors and finish cooking the fish. Remove the cilantro sprigs. Serve with the chopped cilantro, avocado and lime wedges on the side. To add heartiness, serve the stew with something to sop up the sauce such as crusty wholegrain bread, or our Baked Whole Wheat Tortillas.

To learn more about ingredients used in this recipe read our articles on fish and canned tomatoes.

Ann's Tips and Tricks

You can use your favorite firm white fish for this stew; just remember to buy fillets and not steaks. Your fishmonger will skin and cube your fish for you – just ask.